Bangladesh endured a disappointing start in the Group A match of the AFC U-20 Asian Cup 2025 Qualifiers, suffering a 0-4 defeat against higher-ranked Syria in one of the two opening day matches at Lach Tray Stadium in Hai Phong, Vietnam, on Saturday evening.
The SAFF U-20 champions, ranked 186th by FIFA, trailed 0-2 against 92nd-ranked Syria by halftime in the rain-delayed second match of the day.
Syria took the lead in just the fifth minute through Kawa Issa, with Youshaa Knaj doubling the advantage in the 12th minute. Wassam Dukhan added a third goal in the 72nd minute, and Anas Dahhan secured the victory with a fourth goal in the 80th minute.
In the first Group A match earlier in the day, Bhutan drew 1-1 with Guam at the same venue.
Bangladesh is placed in Group A alongside Syria, hosts Vietnam, Bhutan, and Guam. Their remaining matches are against Guam on September 23, Vietnam on September 27, and Bhutan on September 29.
The top team from each of the ten groups, along with the five best runners-up, will advance to the next round of the AFC U-20 Asian Cup.
BDST: 0950 HRS, SEPT 22, 2024
SMS
