Bangladesh triumph over Laos in AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers

Coach Peter James Butler’s side beat the hosts 3-1, with Sagorika scoring a brace to secure the victory

Sagorika celebrates with teammates after scoring against Laos. Photo: BFF

Bangladesh began their AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers with a commanding win over Laos, dominating possession from the kickoff.

In a Group H qualifier at the New Laos National Stadium on Wednesday, coach Peter James Butler’s side defeated the hosts 3-1, with Sagarika netting a brace to seal the win for Bangladesh.

Peter Butler’s girls will face Timor-Leste on Friday in their second match, who lost 9-0 to group favourites South Korea.

The visitors started aggressively and created early chances, but missed opportunities, including a 14th-minute effort from Trishna, were denied by the Laos goalkeeper.

Despite consistent pressure and near misses, Sagorika finally headed home from a corner in the 36th minute to give her team the lead.

Bangladesh remained in control in the second half, with Munki Akhter doubling the lead in the 58th minute with a composed finish.

Swarna Rani Mandal stayed largely untroubled, making a key save in the 70th minute before Sagorika’s header rattled the crossbar moments later.

Laos pulled one back in the 87th minute, sparking hopes of a late comeback, but Sagorika struck in stoppage time with a composed finish to seal a well-deserved win for Bangladesh.