The SAFF U-17 Women’s Championship title had already been decided prior to today’s final match between Bangladesh and India, making the encounter largely a formality. Yet, the Bangladeshi players delivered a spirited performance, taking the lead 2-1 in the first half.

Bangladesh struck immediately after kickoff. From the right flank, Mamoni Chakma delivered a precise cross into the box, where Purnima Marma executed a brilliant header. Despite her efforts, India’s goalkeeper could not prevent the ball from finding the net. The early goal sparked a celebration among the Bangladeshi players, as scoring within the first minute is a rare feat at any level in Bangladesh football.

However, the lead was short-lived. In the seventh minute, India equalised. Anushka Kumari beat Bangladesh’s defender and goalkeeper Meghla Rani to send the ball into the net. Observers noted that Bangladesh’s defenders and goalkeeper bore the greater responsibility for the lapse.

Bangladesh reclaimed the lead in the 36th minute through coordinated attacking play. Purnima Marma took a shot that both the Indian goalkeeper and defenders failed to clear. Another forward, Suravi Akand Preeti, had her attempt blocked, but the ball fell to Alpi Akter, who calmly placed it into the net from close range. Bangladesh went into the dressing room with a 2-1 lead.

In the previous matches, Bangladesh had drawn against Bhutan, while India defeated Nepal to secure the championship. Had Bangladesh beaten Bhutan and also won against India today, both teams would have been level on 15 points, and goal difference or other calculations would have determined the champion.

Although today’s match was a formal fixture, a victory for Bangladesh would carry a sense of revenge, as India had previously defeated them.

This energetic display reinforced Bangladesh’s competitive spirit, even in a match where the championship had already been decided.