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Dhaka, Forward Piash Ahmed Nova netted a brace as Bangladesh registered their second consecutive victory in the Saff U-20 Championship, beating holders India 2-1 at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneshwar Wednesday.

The youngsters in red and green earlier defeated Sri Lanka 1-0 at the same venue Monday to get off to a winning start in the age-level regional championship.

With two successive wins in the championship, Bangladesh not only moved to top of the table with six points but also brightened their chances of playing the grand finale, reports BSS.

Alongside both of Nova’s goals, India’s goal scored by Gurkirah Singh all came in the first half.

Nova put Bangladesh ahead in the 29th minute with a perfect left-footer placing shot from close range after utilizing a long pass from Imran Khan.    

The hosts however, staged a fightback as Gurkirah restored parity in the 35th minute.

Nova though soon gave Bangladesh the lead again from a spot kick on the stroke of the first half whistle.

In their remaining matches, Bangladesh will meet the Maldives Friday before taking on Nepal Tuesday. 

All the matches are being held at Kalinga Stadium.

The top two teams will qualify for the final which will be held on August 5.

A total of five teams - defending champions India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka and the Maldives - are taking part in the tournament which is being held in accordance with round robin league basis.

Bangladesh U-20 squad

Mohammad Emon, Mohammad Asif, Shanto Kumar Ray, Tanvir Hossain, Imran Khan, Ashikur Rahman, Samuel Raksam, Shahin Ahammad, Rajon Hawladar, Azizul Hoque Ananto, Sirajul Islam Rana, Sojol Tripura, Nazmul Huda Faysal, Akkas Ali, Mojibor Rahman Jony, Moinul Islam Moin, Shahidul Islam, Mohammad Nahian, Mursed Ali, Rafiqul Islam, Sajed Hasan Jummon, Piyash Ahmmed Nova and Mirazul Islam