Sports Desk:

Bangladesh ended their SAFF Under-17 Women’s Championship campaign on a high with a 4-3 victory against India in the final matchday. India had already been crowned champions after winning all five of their previous matches, while Bangladesh had confirmed second place with three wins, one loss and one draw.

Bangladesh struck within the opening 29 seconds when Mamoni Chakma’s cross found Purnima Marma, who headed towards goal to give Bangladesh the lead. India replied quickly as Anushka Kumari dribbled past goalkeeper Meghla Rani Roy in the ninth minute to equalise. Both teams created chances in an end-to-end half. Bangladesh, who started with a 4-3-3, switched to a 5-3-2 to add defensive stability. On 33 minutes they replaced Momita with Shiuly Roy.

Bangladesh went back in front when Purnima’s pace on the right wing opened space. She squared for Prity, whose shot was saved, but Alpi followed up and converted the rebound. Bangladesh led 2-1 at half-time, surviving a scare when Anushka’s free kick struck the bar just before the break.

Prity extended the advantage early in the second half, using her physicality to score and make it 3-1. India reacted strongly, often targeting their right wing with long balls from midfield and creating chances through clever passes. Their persistence was rewarded on 65 minutes as Pritika Barman chipped over goalkeeper Meghla Rani Roy to bring India back into the game. Julan then scored in the 89th minute to level the match at 3-3.

With the game heading towards a draw, Bangladesh struck at the death. In the 95th minute Prity’s shot found the net, sealing a dramatic 4-3 win.

India lifted the championship trophy, but Bangladesh’s spirited victory over the champions was celebrated as a major achievement.