Bangladesh hold S Korea 1-1 at half-time in historic qualifier clash

In the final match of the AFC Women’s U-20 Asian Cup qualifiers, Bangladesh needed just a draw against strong favourites South Korea to make history by qualifying for the continental championship for the first time.

Aiming for a historic result, Bangladesh started the match with determination and stunned their opponents by taking an early lead. In the 15th minute, a swift counter-attack culminated in a brilliant goal by Trishna, sending the Bangladeshi contingent into celebration.

However, the lead lasted less than five minutes. South Korea equalised in the 19th minute through Lee Hae-in, capitalising on a defensive lapse to level the score at 1-1.

Despite the setback, Bangladesh held firm and matched their higher-ranked opponents in intensity and organisation. With no further goals in the remainder of the first half, both teams went into halftime with the score tied at 1-1, keeping Bangladesh’s dream of qualification very much alive.

The result puts the young Tigresses in a strong position, as a draw at full time would be enough to secure their place in the main round of the Asian Cup, a landmark achievement for women’s football in Bangladesh.