Bangladesh Thrash Nepal to Set Up India Final

The Bangladesh Under-19 women’s football team surged into the final of the SAFF U-19 Women’s Championship with a commanding 4–0 victory over hosts Nepal. In a dominant display at the Rangasala Stadium in Pokhara on Tuesday, the “Junior Tigresses” maintained their flawless record, ensuring their progression to the tournament’s showpiece event with maximum points.

A Masterclass in Pokhara

Bangladesh wasted no time establishing their authority on the pitch. Within just three minutes of the opening whistle, Pratima Munda found the back of the net, executing a clinical header from a well-placed corner delivered by Mamoni Chakma. This early breakthrough forced Nepal into a defensive shell as they struggled to contain the relentless Bangladeshi attack.

Despite several close chances, the second goal remained elusive until the dying moments of the first half. During injury time, Alpi Akter doubled the lead with a sensational direct free-kick that left the Nepalese goalkeeper rooted to the spot, sending Bangladesh into the tunnel with a comfortable two-goal cushion.

The Alpi Akter Show

The second half belonged entirely to Alpi Akter, who orchestrated a masterclass in clinical finishing. In the 67th minute, the forward initiated a blistering counter-attack, weaving through the Nepalese backline to score her second of the afternoon.

The crowning moment arrived in the 82nd minute when Alpi met a precise cross from Kranusing Marma, tapping the ball home to complete a magnificent hat-trick. This treble takes Alpi’s personal tally to an extraordinary seven goals in just three matches, cementing her status as the tournament’s standout performer.

The Road to the Final

Bangladesh finishes the group stage at the summit of the table with nine points. Earlier in the day, India secured their place in the final with a victory over Bhutan, setting the stage for a high-stakes regional showdown.

Historical Rivalry

Saturday’s final, to be held at the same venue, marks the third time Bangladesh and India have met in the U-19 SAFF final. Bangladesh holds a strong psychological advantage; they defeated India to clinch the title in 2021 and shared the trophy as joint champions in a dramatic 2024 edition.