Sylhet: Bangladesh got off to a good start in the 5th version of the six-nation Bangabandhu Gold Cup International Football Tournament beating upper ranked Laos by 1-0 goal in the opener at 25,000-crowd Sylhet District Stadium here on Monday evening, amid huge enthusiasm among the local fans.

In the match, Biplo Ahmed put Bangladesh ahead in the 60th minute by a good shot from a handshake distance that kissed the net hitting the Laos custodian, following two repeated unsuccessful attempts (1-0). 

Mahbubur Rahman Sufil spoiled two close chances while Nabib Newaz Jibon missed another easy chance at the match.

In a FIFA international friendly match in Laos on March 27 last, Bangladesh came from behind to settle for a 2-2 draw with the hosts. 

With the day’s feat, Bangladesh not only regained their rhythm after a frustrating show in the just-concluded SAFF Championship in Dhaka, but also brightened their chance to reach the semifinals of the prestigious meet.

Bangladesh (FIFA ranked 193), the runners-up of 2015 Bangabandhu Gold Cup Football, lived up their expectations again beating FIFA ranked 178 Laos team.

Earlier, Finance Minister AMA Muhith inaugurated the 12-day heavyweight soccer meet at a simple ceremony in the evening. President of Bangladesh Football Federation Kazi Mohammad Salahuddin was also present on the occasion.