Defending champions Bangladesh booked their place in the SAFF Women’s Championship final in dramatic fashion on Wednesday, coming from behind to defeat Nepal 2-1 in a tense semifinal at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Margao.
Mosammat Sagorika emerged as the hero of the night, scoring a stoppage-time winner in the 93rd minute. The substitute forward calmly flicked in a low cross delivered by Shamsunnahar Jr, completing a spirited comeback just when the match seemed destined for extra time.
Bangladesh had endured a slow and shaky start, struggling to settle into rhythm as Nepal pressed early. Their difficulties were punished in the 23rd minute when Dipa Shahi put Nepal ahead, capitalising on defensive lapses from the Bangladesh backline.
However, just before the interval, Bangladesh found a lifeline through Ritu Porna Chakma. She produced a moment of brilliance in the 45th minute, curling a corner directly into the net to level the score and shift momentum back in favour of the defending champions.
The second half remained tightly contested, with both sides creating chances but failing to convert. As the clock ticked towards full time, Bangladesh introduced fresh attacking options, which ultimately proved decisive.
Sagorika, introduced in the 71st minute, made the most of her opportunity late in the game. After a sharp attacking move down the right flank, Shamsunnahar Jr delivered a precise ball across goal, allowing Sagorika to finish from close range and seal victory.
The win sends Bangladesh into the final on 6 June, where they will face either India or Bhutan. It also marks their third consecutive victory over Nepal in the tournament’s knockout stages.
