Sri Lanka has successfully qualified for the third round of the 2027 Asian Cup Football Qualifiers by defeating Cambodia in a penalty shootout in the second leg of their match.
The two-legged qualifier’s first match ended in a draw, leaving the outcome of the second match crucial for both teams to secure their spot in the next round.
The decisive match, held in Cambodia, was highly competitive from the start. Sri Lanka took the lead in the 38th minute with a goal scored by Oliver Kellart, ending the first half 1-0 in favor of Sri Lanka.
Cambodia equalized in the 51st minute, and the regular time ended with both teams tied at 1-1. Extra time was then allotted to determine the winner.
In the 99th minute, Cambodia scored again, seemingly tilting the match in their favor. However, in the final moments, Claudia Mathews scored for Sri Lanka, bringing the match back to a 2-2 tie.
The game was ultimately decided in a penalty shootout. Sri Lanka’s captain Sujan Perera delivered an outstanding performance, saving Cambodia’s first two penalty attempts. While Cambodia successfully converted their next two penalties, Sri Lanka clinched the victory by successfully converting four penalties in total.
With this win, Sri Lanka has secured a place in the third round of the qualifiers. Additionally, this victory is expected to elevate Sri Lanka’s FIFA ranking to 200 or 201.
