
Bangladesh Lose 4–3 to Hong Kong in Last-Minute Thriller
Dhaka, October 9, 2025 — Bangladesh suffered a heartbreaking 4–3 defeat to Hong Kong in a pulsating AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers Group C clash at the National Stadium in Dhaka. Despite a stellar performance from Hamza Choudhury and late goals from Shekh Morsalin and Shamit Shome, a stoppage-time hat-trick from Raphael Merkies denied the hosts a point. Bangladesh took the lead in the 13th minute through Choudhury's audacious free-kick, thrilling the home crowd. However, Everton Camargo equalised for Hong Kong just before halftime, turning the match into an open contest. The second half saw Hong Kong take control, with substitute Raphael Merkies scoring twice in the 50th and 74th minutes to put his side 3–1 ahead. Bangladesh fought back, with Morsalin pulling one back in the 84th minute and Shome equalising deep into stoppage time (90+9').  Drama peaked in the 90+11th minute when Merkies struck a stunning volley to complete his hat-trick, handing Hong Kong a 4–3 victory. The defeat leaves Bangladesh with just one point from three matches, while Hong Kong strengthens its position in Group C following a previous win over India. Final Score: 🇧🇩 Bangladesh 3–4 Hong Kong 🇭🇰 (Choudhury 13', Morsalin 84', Shome 90+9' | Camargo 45+4', Merkies 50', 74', 90+11') Bangladesh now faces an uphill battle to stay in contention in the qualifiers, while Hong Kong celebrates a dramatic and decisive win.