Kathmandu: Nepal’s AFC U-23 Asian Cup qualifiers campaign came to an end on Saturday following a 4–2 defeat to Syria in Dushanbe, Tajikistan.

The loss confirmed Nepal’s elimination a match before the group stage concludes.

Despite falling behind early, Nepal briefly fought back with goals from Nirajan Dhami and Sumit Shrestha to take a 2–1 lead.

However, Syria responded strongly scoring three quick goals inside last 17 minutes through Ali Alrina, Mahmoud Alaswad and Mahmoud Nayef to secure their second straight victory. Earlier Mohammad Almustafa gave lead to Syria in the first half.

The result marked Nepal’s second consecutive loss in Group ‘K’ having suffered a 4–0 defeat to hosts Tajikistan in their opening match. For Syria, the win followed their 2–1 triumph over the Philippines setting up a decisive clash against Tajikistan on Tuesday.

Nepal will conclude their campaign against the Philippines on Tuesday.