Bangladesh’s valiant effort fell agonisingly short as a late Azerbaijan strike sealed a 2–1 win in a fiercely contested Tri-Nation Series match at the National Stadium on Tuesday.
After an evenly matched first half that ended 1–1, Peter Butler’s young Bangladesh side pushed their higher-ranked opponents to the limit before conceding the decisive goal six minutes from regular time.
Bangladesh began the match with confidence, showing urgency and precision in their transitions. In the opening 12 minutes, they created two promising opportunities but lacked the finishing touch to convert early pressure into a lead. Azerbaijan, however, struck first.
In the 20th minute, captain Jafarzada Sevinj rose highest at the top of the box to guide a stunning header into the far corner. The goal sparked emotional scenes as Sevinj broke down in tears, later revealed to be a tribute to her mother.
The hosts refused to be rattled. Their equaliser arrived in the 34th minute, crafted from a well-rehearsed corner routine. Sapna Rani delivered a teasing ball from the left, and although Azerbaijan’s goalkeeper Sharifova Aytaj attempted to punch it clear, the rebound fell perfectly for Maria Manda, who struck a sweet left-footed volley that flew straight into the net, leaving Aytaj with no chance.
Azerbaijan pressed relentlessly afterwards and threatened to retake the lead before the break, but Bangladesh goalkeeper Rupna Chakma stood strong, producing a crucial one-on-one save to keep the scores level at halftime.
The second half unfolded at a breathless pace, with both teams pushing forward in search of a winner. Bangladesh maintained a high defensive line, breaking quickly on transitions, while Azerbaijan relied on their technical superiority and width to stretch the backline. The match remained on a knife-edge as the hosts continued to match Azerbaijan stride for stride.
The decisive blow, however, came in the 84th minute. A low cross from the left slipped behind the Bangladeshi defence and fell to Manya Esra, who connected with a clean volley that beat Rupna and restored Azerbaijan’s lead.
Bangladesh threw everything forward in the dying minutes, creating half chances and forcing Azerbaijan into hurried clearances. But their late push was not enough, and the final whistle confirmed a narrow defeat—one that felt like heartbreak given the balance of play.
With the win, Azerbaijan completed back-to-back victories to clinch the Tri-Nation Series title. For Bangladesh, despite the loss, the match showcased resilience, tactical maturity, and a fighting spirit that promises much as they prepare for future international assignments.
