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Sports, Football

U-18 girls’ thrilling win a title statement


Published : 14 Jul 2025 10:00 PM

In a match that encapsulated the very essence of footballing drama, Bangladesh secured a breathtaking, last-gasp victory over Nepal in their second fixture of the SAFF U-20 Women's Football Tournament. The scoreline stood at 2-2 as the clock ticked past 90 minutes, deep into the seven minutes of added time. Then, in a moment of pure theatre, Trishna Rani delivered a stunning finish from inside the box following a delightful pass from Umhela, leaving Nepal's goalkeeper and defenders utterly helpless.

This incredible, come-from-behind win, after Nepal had twice clawed their way back from a two-goal deficit, secured all three points for Bangladesh. The emotional toll was evident: while Bangladesh's players erupted in joyous celebration, many Nepalese footballers collapsed onto the pitch, overcome with tears. The thousands of spectators packed into the Kings Arena joined in the jubilant scenes, savouring the sweet taste of victory for the home side.

The second half of this encounter was particularly eventful. In the 54th minute, a moment of high tension saw a player from each side receive a direct red card. Bangladesh forward Sagorika was impeded by a Nepalese defender, who then lost her composure and struck Sagorika. Sagorika, in turn, retaliated, leading the referee to brandish straight red cards to both players.

Sagorika's dismissal undoubtedly put Bangladesh on the back foot. Despite coach Peter Butler's attempts to regain control through substitutions and tactical adjustments, Nepal capitalised on their numerical advantage, albeit briefly. In the 75th minute, Nepal were awarded a penalty, which they duly converted, bringing the Himalayan nation back into the contest. Then, in the 86th minute, a well-worked team move saw Nepal draw level once more, ratcheting up the tension to fever pitch. However, it was Trishna Rani's superb, injury-time finish that ultimately sealed the dramatic victory for Bangladesh.

The first half had seen Bangladesh play with considerable verve and attacking intent. Despite scoring two goals, they had opportunities to add even more. In the 14th minute, Munki received a pass from Sagorika in midfield. After skillfully evading two Nepalese defenders, her shot towards goal was initially blocked by the goalkeeper's legs. However, as the ball trickled towards the line, Nepal's Ganga Rokaya intervened, only for Shikha to pounce and send it into the net. The lead was then doubled in the 37th minute by Sagorika herself, who capitalised on a rebound from Shikha's shot, which had come from a Shanti Mardi cross.

The Bangladesh U-20 squad features several players from the senior national team, and even with this experience, they were made to sweat for their victory against Nepal's U-20 side on home soil. As the two primary contenders for the title in this four-nation SAFF U-20 Women's Tournament, this clash was always going to be crucial. By emerging victorious from such a captivating struggle, Bangladesh has now gained a significant edge in the race for the championship.