Yangon, July 3 (V7N) — A moment of sheer brilliance from Rituporna Chakma has etched a new chapter in Bangladesh women's football history. In the 72nd minute of a high-stakes match against Myanmar, Rituporna struck a sublime left-footed goal that floated past the home team’s goalkeeper and sealed a dramatic 2-1 victory for Bangladesh in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers.

The win not only stunned the higher-ranked hosts in their own backyard but also ensured Bangladesh’s maiden qualification for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup — a feat that had long eluded the nation. With the group stage still ongoing, Bangladesh confirmed their qualification thanks to a 2-2 draw between Bahrain and Turkmenistan later that same evening. This secured Peter Butler’s team a top spot in Group C with one match to spare.

Breaking the Barrier After 45 Years

This is a historic achievement for Bangladesh, as the women’s team now joins the men’s squad in the Asian Cup annals. The men last participated in the tournament in 1980, and after 45 long years, Bangladesh will once again be represented — this time by stars like Monika Chakma and Maria Manda — in the continental showpiece set to take place in Australia in March 2026.

Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus congratulated the women’s team, stating in an official message:
“This victory is not just for women’s football, but for the entire nation. It’s a shining example of our potential, talent, and indomitable spirit.”

Match Summary: From Underdogs to History-Makers

Bangladesh came into the match as underdogs. Ranked 73 places below Myanmar, their task seemed daunting, especially given that they had lost 5–0 to the same opponent in the 2018 Olympic Qualifiers. But on Wednesday, they showed how far they had come.

The match began with Bangladesh pressing smartly and defending in numbers. In the 18th minute, forward Shamsunnahar Jr. was brought down just outside the box. Rituporna’s initial free-kick struck the wall, but she made no mistake with the rebound — sending the ball past the Myanmar goalkeeper and silencing the home crowd.

Minutes later, Bangladesh came agonizingly close to doubling their lead. Rituporna's cross found Shamsunnahar Jr. inside the six-yard box, but her attempt ricocheted off the crossbar. Despite the missed opportunity, Bangladesh maintained composure and tactical discipline throughout.

In the second half, Myanmar piled on the pressure, but Bangladesh stuck to a counter-attacking strategy. The reward came in the 72nd minute when Rituporna picked up a loose ball, skipped past a defender, and curled a stunning left-footer into the net — her second of the match.

Myanmar pulled one back in the 89th minute through Win Win, who tapped in a cross from San Thaw. The final moments saw Myanmar throw everything forward, but tactical substitutions and time management by Coach Butler ensured Bangladesh held on.

When the referee blew the final whistle after four minutes of stoppage time, the Bangladesh camp erupted in joy — not just for the win, but for the realization of a long-cherished dream.

Group C Standings (as of July 3):

  • Bangladesh – 6 points (2 matches)

  • Myanmar – 3 points (2 matches)

  • Bahrain – 1 point (2 matches)

  • Turkmenistan – 1 point (2 matches)

Even if Bangladesh lose their final match against Turkmenistan and Myanmar win against Bahrain, both would be tied on 6 points. However, Bangladesh would advance as group champions due to a superior head-to-head record.

A Rising Force in South Asian Football

This qualification marks another major milestone in Bangladesh women's football’s evolution. From winning two SAFF Women’s Championships by defeating regional giants like India and Nepal to now entering the elite circle of Asian football — the team has come a long way in just a few years.

Their journey from a 5–0 defeat to Myanmar in 2018 to a 2–1 victory in 2024 shows how preparation, vision, and belief can rewrite a nation's sporting destiny.

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