Bangladesh's U-20 women’s team suffered a 3-2 defeat to Thailand in their opening Group A match of the AFC U-20 Women’s Asian Cup at Thammasat Stadium on Wednesday, despite taking a two-goal lead.
Bangladesh started strongly and created several attacking opportunities before taking the lead in the 36th minute through Mst Sagorika, who finished confidently to put her side ahead.
After the break, Sagorika doubled the lead in the 50th minute, scoring her second goal of the match and giving Bangladesh a commanding position.
However, Thailand mounted a strong comeback in the second half. Kurisara Limpawanich reduced the deficit in the 69th minute from the penalty spot, before Rinyaphat Moondong equalised in the 76th minute, also converting a penalty.
The hosts completed the turnaround shortly afterwards, with Pitchayathida Manowang scoring the decisive goal in the 79th minute to seal a 3-2 victory.
Bangladesh attempted to respond in the closing stages but was unable to find an equaliser.
The result leaves Bangladesh with a challenging start in Group A, where they face strong competition from Thailand, China and Vietnam.
Bangladesh will play their remaining group matches against China on April 4 and Vietnam on April 7 as they look to keep their hopes alive in the tournament.
Bangladesh squad: Afeida Khandakar, Surma Jannat, Arpita Biswas, Sapna Rani, Momita Khatun, Mst Sagorika, Umehla Marma, Shanti Mardi, Sauravi Akanda Prity, Surovi Akter Arfin and Mile Akter.
