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Afghanistan Edge Maldives in Diamond Jubilee Tournament Opener
Afghanistan claimed a 1-0 victory over Maldives in the opening match of the Diamond Jubilee International Tournament at the National Stadium on Tuesday.
The decisive moment came in the second half when substitute Roman Fazi found the back of the net to score the only goal of the match, giving Afghanistan all three points to begin their campaign on a winning note.
Both teams created opportunities throughout the contest, but it was Afghanistan who made the breakthrough as Fazi made an immediate impact after coming off the bench. His match-winning performance earned him the Most Valuable Player award.
Maldives battled hard in front of their home supporters but were unable to find an equaliser as Afghanistan held firm to secure a narrow victory.
The result puts Afghanistan in a strong position early in the four-nation tournament, while Maldives will now look to bounce back in their second fixture.
Maldives will face Pakistan in their next match, while Afghanistan will take on Bangladesh as the race for a place in the final continues.