The 2025 Asia Cup finally came alive on September 16 in Abu Dhabi, when Bangladesh defeated Afghanistan in a nail-biting match. After a slow first week, this thrilling game has now made Group B wide open and full of uncertainty.
Asia Cup 2025: All Super Four Qualification Scenarios
Bangladesh Stay Alive in Group B
Bangladesh came into this game knowing that a loss would mean elimination. But the Tigers showed fighting spirit and pulled off an eight-run victory over Afghanistan. With this result, Bangladesh ended their group stage campaign with two wins from three matches, their only defeat coming against Sri Lanka.
On the other hand, Afghanistan are now in a tricky situation. They have one win from two matches, and their hopes of qualifying for the next round depend on their final clash with Sri Lanka.
Meanwhile, Hong Kong are already out of the competition after losing all three of their group games.
Sri Lanka in Strong Position
Sri Lanka are currently on top of Group B with two wins in two games. With four points and a healthy net run rate of +1.546, they look almost certain to reach the Super Four stage.
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But there is still a small chance of an upset. If Afghanistan beat Sri Lanka by around 70 runs or chase the target with nearly 50 balls to spare, Sri Lanka’s net run rate will drop below Bangladesh’s. In that case, Sri Lanka could be knocked out despite their strong start.
So, for Sri Lanka, the job is simple: avoid a heavy defeat. Even a narrow loss will still see them qualify.
What Afghanistan Need
For Afghanistan, the equation is straightforward: they must beat Sri Lanka. If they manage that, their net run rate will take them ahead of Bangladesh, ensuring a spot in the Super Fours.
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What This Means for Bangladesh
Bangladesh will now be keeping a close eye on the Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan game on September 18 in Abu Dhabi. Their best chance is if Sri Lanka win, which will automatically put Bangladesh into the next round.
However, if Afghanistan win big, Bangladesh’s journey will sadly come to an end.
Group A: India Already Through, Pakistan Face Do-or-Die
While Group B is still full of drama, Group A is more straightforward.
- India have already qualified for the Super Fours after winning both of their matches in dominant fashion.
- Oman are eliminated after back-to-back losses.
- The second spot will be decided in a must-win clash between Pakistan and UAE on September 17 in Dubai.
Both Pakistan and UAE have one win and one loss each. The winner of this game will join India in the next round. If Pakistan lose, their Asia Cup 2025 campaign will be over.
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