Hisor, Tajikistan: Two first-half goals were enough for Tajikistan to claim a comfortable 2-0 victory over the Maldives in their AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 Qualifiers Final Round Group A clash on Thursday.

Playing their first match under newly appointed head coach Goran Stevanović, Tajikistan delivered a confident performance to climb to seven points, level with the Philippines, while the Maldives suffered a third consecutive defeat in the qualifying campaign.

Earlier in the day, the pressure was on Tajikistan following the Philippines’ 4-1 win over Timor-Leste, but the home side quickly settled into their rhythm. Just five minutes in, Rustam Soirov made a bursting run before setting up Shahrom Samiev, who calmly slotted in from close range to give Tajikistan the lead.

The advantage was doubled in the 30th minute when Sodiqjon Qurbonov delivered a cross from the right flank. Maldivian goalkeeper Mohamed Faisal mishandled the ball, allowing Shervoni Mabatshoev to pounce and finish with ease.

Tajikistan continued to control proceedings after the break but were met with more resilient defending from the Maldives, who managed to prevent further damage. In added time, substitute Hassan Raif Ahmed (Hanna) nearly pulled one back for the visitors, only to see his strike rattle the post.

It was a losing start for new Maldives head coach Mohamed Siyaz (Mohan) in the qualifiers, who previously oversaw a win and a draw during last month’s South Asian Super Cup fixtures against Sri Lanka.

The Maldives now return home for their next three matches in the qualifying campaign. They will face Tajikistan again on Tuesday, host the Philippines in November, and take on Timor-Leste in March 2026.

Tajikistan, meanwhile, remain firmly in the race for qualification, with their strong first-half display underlining their growing momentum under new leadership.