Match 9 of the Asia Cup 2025 will feature the underdogs, Bangladesh and Afghanistan, and is scheduled to be played at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. Both teams have one win each, with Afghanistan having played only one match so far.
This is a virtual knockout for Bangladesh, as they need to win to qualify for the Super 4s. Meanwhile, a win for Afghanistan will secure its place in the next stage.
Check out the in-depth match preview and where to watch Match 9 — featuring Bangladesh and Afghanistan in the Asia Cup 2025.
Bangladesh vs Afghanistan: Where to Watch Live?
Date | 16/08/2025 |
Time | 8:00 PM IST |
Venue | Sheikh Zayed Stadium |
Streaming | Sonyliv |
Broadcast | Sony Sports |
Bangladesh vs Afghanistan: Match Preview
A virtual knockout is on the cards for the tigers as they face a must-win clash against Afghanistan in this Group B encounter of the Asia Cup 2025.
Bangladesh started their campaign with a dominant win over Hong Kong, but their flaws were exposed in a disappointing loss to Sri Lanka.. Now, their qualification hopes hang by a thread. If they beat Afghanistan, they stay alive in the tournament. If the result goes against them or even if it's close and not in their favor, they risk elimination.
Despite the pressure, Bangladesh coach Mushtaq Ahmed remains optimistic about their chances.
“We have to believe that we can qualify. It's difficult when you rely on 'ifs and buts,' but you have to concentrate on the next match and win that first,” Mushtaq said.
“I think little doubts occur when you lose quick wickets early on, like four or five in no time. You have to tell your batsmen that those things happen, but you must move on very quickly. If you don't, and keep living in the past, progress will be very slow. Our duty as coaches is to remind them not to go into a shell, not to lose confidence, and to keep believing.”
Meanwhile, Afghanistan is in a strong position to qualify for the next stage, with an extra game in hand. Their spin-heavy attack, backed by solid batting depth, gives them a clear edge over Bangladesh. However, they’re wary of underestimating a side that has recently shown signs of a comeback in bilateral series.
Speaking ahead of the match, Afghanistan head coach Jonathan Trott highlighted his team's consistency and focus:
“Starting a tournament can make you a little nervous, so it was good to get that win in the first game. We'd played six games in 12 days before that, so having a bit of a break was nice and refreshing before the big game tomorrow,” Trott said.
“We've had quite a few games against Bangladesh over the years and they've always been good contests. We're definitely looking forward to it and want to make sure we end up on the winning side.”
The stakes couldn’t be higher as both teams gear up for a high-pressure contest that could define their Asia Cup 2025 journey.
For more updates on Afghanistan vs Bangladesh
Afghanistan vs Bangladesh Live Scorecard
