Bangladesh outclassed by Iran in international futsal debut

Bangladesh’s first step onto the international futsal stage ended in a difficult outing as they suffered a heavy 12-0 defeat to defending champions Iran in their opening match of the AFC Futsal Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers.

The landmark fixture, played at Stadium Tertutup Sukpa in Kuantan, Malaysia on 20 September, marked Bangladesh’s debut in international futsal. Their participation in the qualifiers for the first time represents a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to establish the sport at a competitive level.

Iran, 12-time champions and widely regarded as Asia’s futsal powerhouse, displayed their dominance from start to finish, handing the Bangladeshi side a stern lesson on the international stage.

Bangladesh will now turn their focus to their remaining Group G fixtures, taking on hosts Malaysia on 22 September before wrapping up the group stage campaign against the United Arab Emirates on 24 September.

LND/SAE