Bangladesh, Oct. 21 -- Bangladesh defeated Maldives 33-20 to set up a final clash against India in the Begum Khaleda Zia IHF Nations Trophy at Shaheed Captain M Mansur Ali Stadium in Paltan on Tuesday.

Despite a strong start, the Maldives couldn't maintain control of the match until the end.

They staged a comeback in the second half, going toe-to-toe with Bangladesh, but were unable to overcome the significant deficit incurred in the first half. Consequently, hosts Bangladesh defeated the Maldives to reach the final,

The 'red-and-greens' held a 16-5 lead by the end of the first half. After the break, Bangladesh scored 17 goals, while the Maldives responded with 15.

Ultimately, the 11-goal cushion established in the first half proved ...