The Bangladeshi girls defeated Bhutan 12-0

Defending champions Bangladesh began their campaign in the SAFF Under-19 Women’s Football Championship with a spectacular display, overwhelming Bhutan 12-0 in the tournament’s opening match at Pokhara Rangasala, Nepal. From the first whistle, the Bangladeshi side asserted complete dominance, dismantling Bhutan’s defence with relentless attacking play under coach Peter Butler.

Despite taking an aggressive approach from the outset, it took Bangladesh 27 minutes to break the deadlock. The opening goal came from Mamoni Chakma, who curled a precise left-footed shot into the net from a corner. Replays were inconclusive on whether the ball brushed the Bhutanese goalkeeper’s hands, making it a potential Olympic goal. Following Mamoni’s strike, Bangladesh’s momentum was unstoppable. By half-time, they had added two more goals to lead 3-0.

In the second half, Bangladesh intensified their pressure, with Alpi and Munkira spearheading successive attacks that repeatedly tore through Bhutan’s defensive lines. After conceding five goals, Bhutan was forced to replace their goalkeeper, yet Bangladesh’s dominance remained unchallenged. The sixth goal arrived in the 59th minute, followed by six more strikes before the final whistle, ensuring a resounding victory.

The match was played under challenging conditions, as significant portions of the pitch lacked grass and the ground was uneven. Initially, this affected ball control, but the Bangladeshi players adapted quickly and maintained their attacking rhythm.

The four-nation tournament continues with hosts Nepal facing India today at 3:15 pm Bangladesh time. The competition follows a league format, with the top two teams in the points table contesting the final on 7 February.

Bangladesh has an impressive track record in SAFF youth competitions.

Having won five out of six SAFF youth tournaments across U-18, U-19, and U-20 levels, Bangladesh’s women’s team enters the competition determined to retain their crown. This emphatic 12-0 opening victory sets the tone for a confident campaign, signalling that the defending champions are ready to maintain their dominance in South Asian women’s football.