Bangladesh girls lose to China again in U-20 Asian Cup qualifiers

Bangladesh put up a strong resistance at the start but ultimately lost to a powerful China once again, making their path to the next round more difficult.

Bangladesh had lost to China 2-0 in the main round of the Asian Cup a few days ago. Coach Peter Butler's side suffered another defeat by the same margin in the AFC U-20 Asian Cup qualifiers on Saturday, April 4.

China played aggressively from the start, but Bangladesh built a strong defensive wall in the first half. In the 25th minute, Li Qi's free-kick brushed goalkeeper Mili's fingers and hit the crossbar. In the 43rd minute, Mili skillfully blocked Li Juayu's shot, helping Bangladesh stay level at halftime.

China created several chances in the first half but failed to score. However, the match changed after the break.

In the 47th minute, Yu Jinzhu scored from close range off a pass from Zeng Yujia to put China ahead. Bangladesh came under pressure. In the 71st minute, China got another chance from a free-kick, but goalkeeper Mili saved it.

China doubled their lead in the 82nd minute when Wang Haifang's curling shot found the net, effectively ending the match. China pushed hard at the end but could not add another goal.

Observers believe the margin could have been larger without goalkeeper Mili's outstanding performance.

Bangladesh will face Vietnam in their final group match on April 7. Failure to win that match will further diminish their hopes of advancing to the next round.