Bangladesh’s U-20 women’s team took a historic step in their quest for the AFC Women’s U-20 Asian Cup, going into half-time with a 1–0 lead against hosts Laos in their opening qualifier match in Vientiane.
The goal came in the 36th minute when Sagarika Ahmed powered in a header from a right-wing corner delivered by Shanti Mardi. The strike gave Bangladesh the advantage against a Laotian side ranked 21 places above them in the FIFA rankings.
The match marks the beginning of Bangladesh’s campaign in the AFC Women’s U-20 Asian Cup qualifiers, following their successful performance in the recent SAFF U-20 Women’s Championship. This qualifying round features eight groups, with the group winners and the three best runners-up advancing to the final tournament in Thailand next year. Host nation Thailand has already secured a direct spot in the finals.
Bangladesh has been drawn in a challenging group alongside South Korea, Laos, and East Timor. While South Korea are strong favourites, Bangladesh’s hopes hinge on winning their matches against Laos and East Timor to stand a chance of finishing as one of the top three runners-up.
Women’s football in Bangladesh has been on an upward trajectory in recent months, and qualification for the continental tournament would mark another milestone for the Peter Butler-led team.
This clash against Laos is crucial. A win here would set the tone for the rest of the campaign and keep qualification hopes alive.
Bangladesh created two clear chances in the first half, converting one. After Sagarika’s goal, they nearly doubled their lead in the 41st minute when Sinha Jahan Shikhar’s powerful shot from outside the box struck the crossbar.
The team will aim to build on their strong start in the second half as they continue their push for a historic place in the AFC Women’s U-20 Asian Cup.