Tajikistan defeat Maldives 2-0 in Asian Cup qualifier

Tajikistan beat Maldives 2–0 at home in their Asian Cup qualifying match, with both goals coming in the first half.

Shahrom Samiev opened the scoring in the eighth minute, converting a cross from Rustam Soirov.

Shervoni Mabatshoev doubled the lead in the 30th minute as Tajikistan dominated the match.

In their first match under new coach Goran Stevanović, Tajikistan played long balls.

Maldives Captain Ali Samooh and goalkeeper Mohamed Faisal made several key saves during the match.

Tajikistan controlled possession in the second half but created fewer chances as the pace of the game slowed.

Maldives forward Hassan Raif Ahmed (Hanna) came close with a dangerous cross into the area, while Faisal continued to deny Tajikistan at the other end.

The second leg between the teams will be played on Tuesday in Male'.

Tajikistan and the Philippines now share the top of the group with nine points each, with the Philippines leading on goal difference after a 4–1 win over Timor-Leste on Thursday.