Bangladesh women’s national field hockey team produced a sensational comeback to hold Chinese Taipei women’s national field hockey team to a 5-5 draw in a thrilling Asian Games hockey qualifier in Jakarta on Thursday.
Playing their first match of the qualifying campaign, Bangladesh made a strong early impression before being pushed back by a more experienced Chinese Taipei side, who have previously competed twice at the Asian Games. At one stage, Bangladesh were under heavy pressure and appeared close to defeat.
Arpita Pal was the standout performer, scoring a hat-trick for Bangladesh. Irin Ria and Kona Akter added one goal each in a high-scoring encounter.
Bangladesh took the lead in the 8th minute through a penalty corner from Ria, but Chinese Taipei responded immediately with a field goal. Arpita restored the lead in the 10th minute with a fine finish inside the circle.
She then extended the advantage early in the second quarter from a penalty stroke, giving Bangladesh a strong platform. However, the momentum shifted as Chinese Taipei struck back with two quick goals to level the match.
The Taiwanese side went on to dominate the third quarter, scoring twice more to take control and leave Bangladesh on the brink of defeat.
Bangladesh, however, refused to give up. In the 40th minute, Kona Akter scored a brilliant field goal on the counter-attack to spark hopes of a comeback.
Arpita then completed her hat-trick with a well-taken penalty corner, ensuring Bangladesh clawed their way back to secure a 5-5 draw.
The result leaves the qualification group finely balanced. Uzbekistan currently lead the standings with three points, while Bangladesh and Chinese Taipei both have one point.
Although Bangladesh’s women’s age-group sides have taken part in several Asian Hockey Federation–sanctioned competitions over the past two years, including a runners-up finish for the U-21 team in the 2024 Women’s Junior AHF Cup, this marked the senior women’s team’s first official international appearance.
Bangladesh will next face Uzbekistan, who opened their campaign with a commanding 4-0 win over Hong Kong.
