Bangladesh Makes Historic European Debut by Defeating San Marino

Darwin, 06 June :

The Bangladesh football team has made history by winning in their first-ever match on European soil. Bangladesh defeated San Marino 2-1, with Tapu Barman scoring both goals for the Red-Greens.

On Friday, Bangladesh secured a 2-1 victory over San Marino. Both goals for the team came from Tapu, and this win also marked the beginning of a new coaching chapter under Thomas Dooley.

San Marino, a tiny country within Italy, hosted Bangladesh for a FIFA international friendly, marking Bangladesh’s European debut.

Thousands of expatriate Bengalis attended the match in San Marino, cheering for Hamza and Tapu throughout. In effect, Bangladesh enjoyed more of a home advantage than the hosts themselves.

Bangladesh capitalized on this advantage, playing aggressively from the start against the FIFA-ranked 211th team.

In the 16th minute, Bangladesh created a big chance but failed to convert it due to the opponent’s defense. However, they didn’t have to wait long. Immediately after, Tapu scored to give Bangladesh the lead. Hamza delivered a brilliant cross from a free-kick, and Tapu headed it home beautifully.

However, the lead was short-lived. In the 31st minute, San Marino equalized. Tapu tried to stop their player, Berardi, near the byline but failed, allowing Berardi to score and make it 1-1.

After halftime, Bangladesh increased their attacking intensity. Both teams were desperate for goals in the second half. San Marino, playing 30 steps back, created several opportunities but failed to convert them.

In the 86th minute, Tapu scored again to restore Bangladesh’s lead. Once again, Hamza assisted with a free-kick, delivering the ball for Bishwanath Ghosh to attempt a shot, which Tapu headed in to finish. Bangladesh held onto this lead and left the pitch celebrating a historic victory under coach Thomas Dooley.