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Thursday, July 3, 2025
Image: Asian Football Confederation.
On Wednesday, Bangladesh defeated hosts Myanmar 2–1 in their second Group C match of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 qualifiers at Thuwunna Stadium in Yangon, Myanmar.
Ritu Porna Chakma scored both goals for Bangladesh, striking first in the 19th minute by converting a rebound after a free-kick, and adding a second in the 72nd minute with a solo effort from the edge of the box. Myanmar pulled one goal back through Win Win in the 89th minute, but Bangladesh held on for what Dhaka Tribune and others called a historic win.
The victory marked Bangladesh’s second consecutive win in the qualifiers, following their 7–0 win over Bahrain, and secured their spot in the final tournament of the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup in Australia. It was Bangladesh’s first-ever qualification for the continental finals.
Bangladesh’s starting eleven featured Rupna Chakma, Sheuli Azim, Afeeda Khandaker, Shamsunnahar, Kohati Kisku, Sapna Rani, Maria Manda, Monika Chakma, Shamsunnahar Jr., Ritu Porna Chakma, and Tohura Khatun. The team was coached by Peter Butler.
With the win, Bangladesh topped Group C with one match remaining against Turkmenistan on July 5. Myanmar had earlier defeated Turkmenistan 8–0 in their opening game.
