Malé, Maldives: Maldives showed flashes of resilience and attacking promise but were ultimately undone by a well-drilled Tajikistan side, who ran out 3-0 winners in Tuesday’s AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 Qualifiers Final Round Group A clash.
Tajikistan got off to a dream start, scoring in the fourth minute after a handball in the box gave them an early penalty. While Maldivian goalkeeper Mohamed Faisal saved Parvizhzhon Umarbaev’s spot-kick, Manuchehr Safarov pounced on the rebound to give the visitors the lead.
Despite the early setback, the Maldives responded with energy and ambition. The home side's best chance came through Ahmed Aiham, who drove forward from his own half, beating four Tajik defenders in a thrilling solo run before sending his shot just wide of goal.
Tajikistan showed their efficiency in front of goal again in the 34th minute when Shervoni Mabatshoev capitalized on a defensive error to make it 2-0.
The Maldives continued to press and create chances but were unable to find the finishing touch.
The final goal came in the 78th minute when Mabatshoev scored his second of the night, finishing off a slick through-ball from Ehsoni Panshanbe to seal the win for the visitors.
Tajikistan’s head coach Goran Stevanović admitted the match was much tougher than the scoreline suggested.
He praised the Maldives for putting up a stronger fight than in the previous fixture, noting that several Maldivian players impressed him with their quality and potential.
“It was a very difficult game for us,” Stevanović said post-match.
“The Maldives played much better than in the first leg. Some of their players, especially in attack, were very good. I think players like their Number 9, 10, and 11 could play in any team, even in Europe.”
He acknowledged that the early goal helped his side control the rhythm of the game but emphasized the importance of space management and tactical discipline to withstand the home team's pressure, especially in the second half.
With this win, Tajikistan move to 10 points and stay on course for qualification. For the Maldives, while the result is disappointing, the performance showed promise, particularly from young talents.
The Maldives will next take on the Philippines in November, while Tajikistan will face Timor-Leste.
