Runa Akter struck in injury time as Bangladesh beat hosts Uzbekistan 2-1 to begin their AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup 2027 qualifying campaign with a thrilling victory on Thursday.
With the match heading towards a draw, Runa scored in the sixth minute of added time to hand Bangladesh three valuable points in Group H.
Bangladesh made a flying start when Almina found the net in just the third minute. Purnima Marma provided the cross, which Almina converted to give the visitors an early lead.
However, Uzbekistan fought back quickly and equalised in the 17th minute. Both teams pushed for another goal, but the score remained 1-1 until the end of regular time.
Just when the match looked set to finish level, Runa received a pass from midfield and scored with a shot from inside the box to seal the victory.
The defeat ended Uzbekistan’s hopes of reaching the final tournament. The hosts had earlier lost 4-0 to the Philippines in their opening match.
Bangladesh will now face the Philippines on October 11 in a crucial match that will decide who advances from Group H. The Philippines have a better goal difference after their comfortable victory over Uzbekistan.
A draw would leave both teams on four points, allowing the Philippines to qualify on goal difference. Bangladesh, therefore, must beat the Philippines to secure their place in the final tournament.
