Adeel separated the two sides two minutes before break to give Pakistan their fourth Games gold medal in football, after being successful in 1989, 1991 and 2004. They also became the most successful team in the region, topping India's record of three golds.

The hosts dominated the show, but a houseful holiday crowd went home in silence as their hopes to win the first-ever title was dashed shortly before midnight.

Meanwhile, the Bangladesh men's volleyball team lost in straight sets (11-25, 15-25, 17-25) to Pakistan in the bronze medal play-off while India took gold, beating Sri Lanka 25-15, 21-25, 25-21, 25-19 in the final yesterday.

The hosts clinched the prestigious marathon gold, Ajith Bandara winning the 42km race in 2hrs25:40. Nepal's Arjun Kumar Basnet won silver and India's L Binning bronze in the last athletics event.

Today, Bangladeshi karatekas will participate in all three karate events that bring end to this 11-day competition.