Turkmenistan Defeats Chinese Taipei 3–1, Moves Closer to 2027 Asian Cup Spot

Turkmenistan’s national football team has secured another crucial victory in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers, beating Chinese Taipei 3-1 in Arkadag.

Rahman Myratberdiyev opened the scoring in the 13th minute, followed by second-half goals from Elman Tagayev (53’) and Meylis Diniyev (79’). Chinese Taipei’s only goal came from Ange Samuel Kouame just before halftime, The Caspian Post informs via Turkmen media.

In the other Group D match of the fifth round, Thailand cruised to a 4-0 win over Sri Lanka.

After five rounds, Turkmenistan sits at the top of Group D with 12 points, level with Thailand. The decisive showdown for the group’s direct qualification spot is set for March 31, 2026, when Thailand hosts Turkmenistan in what promises to be a high-stakes clash.