Tajikistan edged past Timor-Leste with a 1-0 scoreline in their AFC Asian Cup qualifier on March 25, 2025, in a match where they were expected to win more comfortably. The solitary goal came from a first-half penalty, awarded after the Timor-Leste goalkeeper brought down an attacker in the box. Despite controlling large spells of possession, Tajikistan found it difficult to create clear opportunities against a well-drilled and committed defensive unit. Timor-Leste defended bravely and even threatened on the counter-attack in the closing stages, forcing a smart save from the Tajik keeper. The three points are vital for Tajikistan's qualification hopes, but the narrow margin of victory will be a slight concern. The Tajik coach admitted his team lacked sharpness in the final third, while the Timor-Leste manager was immensely proud of his players' effort and organization against a higher-ranked opponent.