Bangladesh opened their AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup qualifying campaign with a dramatic 2-1 win over hosts Uzbekistan in Group H on Thursday, with substitute Runa Akter scoring deep into stoppage time to keep their hopes of reaching the finals alive.

Almina gave the visitors the perfect start in the third minute, finishing from a superb cross by Purnima Marma. The advantage lasted only until the 17th minute, when Uzbekistan levelled, and the teams went into the break at 1-1.

The second half was tightly contested, with neither side able to find a clear edge through the regulation 90 minutes.

A draw looked likely until Runa picked up the ball from midfield and struck a precise shot from inside the box in stoppage time.

The result confirmed Uzbekistan’s elimination from the qualifiers, after they had lost 4-0 to the Philippines in their opening fixture.

Head coach Saiful Bari Titu praised the result but admitted the performance was far from perfect.

“I am happy that the girls brought home three points. However, we could not play completely according to our plan. We conceded the goal because of our own mistake.”

Attention now turns to the Philippines, whom Bangladesh face on October 11. The Philippines hold a better goal difference, so only a win will take Bangladesh through. A draw would leave both teams on four points, with the Philippines advancing.

Titu said his squad had studied the opponents closely. “We have watched their match. We have an idea about their style of play and strengths. Now we have to improve ourselves further.”

Recovery is planned for Friday, followed by a training session.

Only the winners of the eight qualifying groups will reach the finals in China next March.

Twelve teams will compete, with hosts China, champions North Korea, runners-up Japan and fourth-placed Australia already through.