By Joseph Solomon,

AIFF Media Team

TRIVANDRUM: India will clash swords against Maldives in the Semi-finals of the SAFF Suzuki Cup 2015 at the Trivandrum International Stadium in Kerala on December 31, 2015. The Kick-off for which is at 3:30 PM IST.

While India topped Group A with wins over Sri Lanka and Nepal, Maldives finished runners-up in Group B, courtesy two wins and a 1-4 loss against Afghanistan in their final Group fixture today (December 28, 2015).

The ‘Men in Blue’ will now look to extend their unbeaten streak in the Tournament as they gear up to face Maldives, who are ranked 160 in the FIFA Rankings.

However, it was a different tale for the island Nation of Maldives today, as they succumbed to the attacking prowess of the ‘Afghan Lions’.

Afghanistan took a solitary goal lead in the 20^th minute when Shayesteh slotted his opportunity home, after a shaky opening to the game. But in the 31^st minute, Maldives equalized their deficit as Fasir rounded the Afghani custodian and scored to make it 1-1.

Two minutes later, Afghanistan regained their lead as Popalzay scored directly from a free-kick near the 18 yard box. The half-time scoreline read 2-1 in Afghanistan’s favor.

Changing over, and Afghanistan extended their lead in the 51^st minute through Hatifie’s volley. Three minutes later Popalzay scored for the ‘Afghan Lions’ to make it 4-1.Afghanistan saw the match out with an unassailable three goal lead as the fulltime scoreline read 4-1.

The ‘Afghan Lions’ face Sri Lanka in their Semifinal encounter on December 31, 2015.  

In the other Group B fixture, Bangladesh defeated Bhutan 3-0, courtesy of a Shakawant Rony brace and a Tofu Barman header.