Bangladesh staged a comeback to defeat the Maldives 2-1 on October 17, 2023, and win their FIFA World Cup qualification (AFC) first-round tie 3-2 on aggregate. After a 1-1 draw in the first leg, Bangladesh turned on the style at the Bashundhara Kings Arena in Dhaka to secure progression. Falling behind early would have tested their resolve, but the home side rallied with two goals to overturn the deficit on the night and in the tie. The victory sparked wild celebrations, as Bangladesh advanced to the next stage of World Cup qualifying, keeping their dreams alive in dramatic fashion.