Bangladesh women’s hockey team registered a historic victory in just their second senior international match, defeating Uzbekistan 3-2 in the Women’s Asian Games Qualifier in Jakarta, Indonesia on Friday.
After a 5-5 draw against Chinese Taipei in their opening match last Thursday, the Bangladeshi side bounced back strongly to claim their maiden win at the senior international level.
With four points from two matches, Bangladesh now top Pool A. Chinese Taipei also have four points from two games, while Hong Kong sit third with three points and Uzbekistan remain pointless.
Wearing the red-and-green jersey, Bangladesh will face Hong Kong in their final group match on Sunday.
Bangladesh took the lead in the 11th minute through Sharika Rimon from a penalty corner. However, Uzbekistan responded immediately as Madinabonu Khujaeva equalised a minute later, also from a penalty corner.
Goals from Kona Akter in the 24th minute and Irin Riya in the 40th minute, again from a penalty corner, put Bangladesh firmly in control of the match.
Uzbekistan reduced the deficit in the 46th minute when Zulkhumor Khaydarova converted a penalty stroke, but Bangladesh held on to secure a memorable win.
Riya was named player of the match for her impressive performance.
The top four teams from the qualifiers will advance to the final round of the Asian Games, scheduled to be held in Japan in September.
