Bangladesh women qualify for Asian Games despite fall short in Final

The Bangladesh women’s hockey team had to settle for runners-up honours after a 3-1 defeat against Chinese Taipei in the final of the Women’s Asian Games Hockey Qualifiers in Jakarta on Wednesday (April 29).

Bangladesh made a bright start, taking the lead in the 8th minute through captain Arpita Pal, who converted from a penalty corner. However, the advantage was short-lived as Chinese Taipei equalised in the 17th minute via Wang Yu-Chiu, sending both sides into half-time level at 1-1.

After the break, Chinese Taipei took control of the match. Ma Xiao Sun put them ahead in the 32nd minute before Huang Ti Yu Ting extended the lead to 3-1 in the 40th minute. Bangladesh attempted to fight back in the closing stages but failed to convert several penalty corners and attacking chances.

Despite the defeat, Bangladesh completed a strong campaign in their first major international qualifying tournament, finishing runners-up and securing qualification for the upcoming Asian Games in Japan later this year.

Individual performances also stood out, with Ireen Ria emerging as joint top scorer of the tournament with five goals, including a hat-trick against Singapore in the semi-final. Kona Akter also contributed three goals in a promising campaign for the young side.