KABUL - The Afghanistan national football team has qualified for the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Challenge Cup semi-finals.

Afghanistan defeated Turkmenistan 3-1 on Thursday night and qualified to AFC Challenge Cup semi-finals by securing five points in Group B after today’s goalless draw with Laos at Hithadhoo Stadium.

The Afghan team’s performance was relatively weaker as compared to it’s performance against Turkmenistan on Thursday.

The interim coach of Afghanistan Erich Rutemoller said the performance by Afghan footballers against Laos was the worst in three games up to now.

Rutmoller said there was nothing in the first half but played well in the second half; however there was no speed to change quickly from defense to attack.

Afghanistan is expecting to face Palestine in AFC Challenge Cup semi-finals while Philippines will face host Maldives on Tuesday.

Palestine tops the Group A by securing seven points with two wins and one draw. (KP)