By Gasper Crasto for Team Mangalorean

• Yemen beat Bangladesh 3-0

Kuwait November 18, 2009: Sierra Leone held the mighty ‘Eagles’ to a goalless draw in the 4th Kuwait African International Football Tournament organized by The Lighthouse Church (TLC) at the Digital Ground, Sharq, Kuwait City on 13th November 2009.

The game between the two African nations began on an attacking note with Nigeria trying to hit the target early into the match. But good understanding and excellent team work between the Sierra Leone’s defence allowed little room for the the Nigerians to dominate the proceedings.

The first real threat from Nigeria came in the first quarter of play when Mikail (Nigerian Striker) tried a grounder from just outside the box and was denied by the outstretched arm of Joe (Sierra Leone goalkeeper). In the 20th minute Sierra Leone skipper crossed in a promising ball towards the far post but the Nigerian defenders were quick to win the ball and headed it out for a corner. 

Later in the second session, the Nigerians had vast opportunities to forge ahead but they either fumbled in front of the goal or their attempts were thwarted by Sierra-Leone’s defender Ko-Ko, who, although injured, never gave up but kept his shadow on the Nigerians. Also, Sierra Leone’s goalkeeper Joe had a field day with some brilliant saves under the bar.

The game began to get a bit physical midway into the second session and the referee had to caution players from both teams.

In the second game, Yemen drubbed Bangladesh by 3 goals to none. Both the teams played a tough game before Moh’d Mubarak put Yemen into the lead (1-0).

Bangladesh weren't at their best as their midfield left big gaps which enabled Yemen to put pressure on them time and again.

After resumption, Osama Ali made it 2-0 for Yemen while Adnan Saeed scored the third goal off a penalty kick awarded by the referee.

Mustapha Ceesay and Yusuf Witi were the main officials of the day. They officiated the matches in all fairness and in true spirit of the sport. 
 
The tournament continues on Friday 20th November 2009 with Ethiopia facing Egypt at 2.30 pm and strong contenders India taking on Thailand at 3.30 pm.

Complete coverage

Kuwait African International Football - Sri Lanka, Ghana win convincingly

Kuwait African International Soccer: India beat Ethiopia, Egypt draw with Thailand

Kuwait African Football Tournament: Nigeria beat Yemen, Sierra-Leone draw with Bangla

Kuwait: Afro-Asian International Football Tournament off to a grand start