Bangladesh women collapse in 9 minutes, lose 3-2 to Thailand

Bangladesh U-20 Women suffered a heart-breaking 3-2 defeat against hosts Thailand in their opening match of AFC U-20 Women’s Asian Cup in Bangkok, conceding three goals in a dramatic nine-minute collapse late in the game.

Despite Thailand controlling much of the match with dominant possession and sharp attacking play, Bangladesh stunned the hosts by taking the lead in the 35th minute. 

Mosammat Sagorika, released by a precise through ball from Moumita Khatun, dribbled past three defenders over nearly 45 yards to score. The lead doubled early in the second half when Sagorika converted another chance, giving Bangladesh a surprising 2-0 advantage.

However, the match turned after the hour mark. Thailand pulled one back from a penalty in the 70th minute, quickly followed by another penalty two minutes later to equalize. Pichayatida Manowang completed the turnaround in the 79th minute with a clinical finish.

Bangladesh captain Arpita Biswas acknowledged the lessons from the defeat, saying, “We played well in the first half but couldn’t finish strongly. The first penalty shook us and we need to improve our resilience under pressure. We will take these lessons into our next games.”

What began as a disciplined and efficient performance for Bangladesh ended in disappointment, as a frantic nine-minute spell erased their two-goal advantage and highlighted areas for growth against high-pressure opposition.

SH