Bangladesh started their AFC U-20 Asian Cup Qualifiers with a goalless draw against hosts Bahrain on Saturday night.

The boys in red and green displayed a spirited performance, keeping the hosts at bay with excellent defensive discipline. Goalkeeper Shanto Ray, too, had to be at his best to deny the hosts on a number of occasions.

The group also features Qatar, Nepal and Bhutan. The first match of the group, earlier in the day, saw Bhutan beat Nepal 2-0.

Bangladesh's next match is against Bhutan on Monday.

Ten group champions and five best runners-up teams will join hosts Uzbekistan in the final round of the competition next year.