Three Star, playing for the first time in Bhutan, took an early 17th minute lead through its African recruit Leonce Dodoz. The Ivory Coast forward beat the Sikkim United custodian to put his side ahead after receiving a pass from Subash Gurung. Dodoz was later denied twice by the Sikkim goalkeeper. [break]
In the 41st minute, Three Star custodian Allan Neupane denied Brijendra Rai but conceded the equalizer in the last minute of the first half.
Three Star is without 11 of its players for the tournament as they are currently undergoing the national team training for the SAFF Championship, while another African forward Adewumi Femi missed Sunday´s match due to injury.
Three Star will take on Thimphu City FC of Bhutan on Thursday in another match of Group B, which comprises four teams. Laxmi Hyundai Manang Marshyangdi Club and NMB Machhidnra FC are the other Nepali teams to compete in the tournament. Machhindra and MMC are both placed in Group A consisting of five teams. The winner and runner-up of each group at the end of the round robin league will qualify for the semifinals.
Machhindra FC is set to take on I-League side Mohun Bagan in its first match on Monday.
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