SAFF U-19 Women’s Championship: Nepal Edges Bhutan 2–1 to Stay in Final Race

Kaski, Feb 2
Nepal kept its hopes of reaching the final alive after registering a 2–1 win over Bhutan in the ongoing SAFF U-19 Women’s Championship on Monday.

The match, played at the Pokhara International Football Stadium, saw Nepal take the lead in the 36th minute through Srijana Baduwal. Nepal strengthened its position in the second half when Prajita Rai found the net in the 69th minute, giving the hosts a comfortable advantage.

Bhutan attempted a late fightback as Sonam Choden scored in the 87th minute, but Nepal managed to hold on and secure the crucial victory, earning their first points of the tournament.

Earlier, Nepal had suffered a narrow 1–0 loss against India in their opening match. Despite that setback, Monday’s win has kept Nepal in contention for a place in the final.

Bhutan, meanwhile, has been ruled out of the title race after suffering defeats in both of their matches, including a heavy 12–0 loss to Bangladesh in their opener.

In another match played on the same day, Bangladesh defeated India 2–0. With two consecutive victories, Bangladesh leads the standings with six points. India and host Nepal are level on three points each from two matches, while Bhutan remains without a point.

The final round of league-stage matches will be held on February 4, with India facing Bhutan and Nepal taking on Bangladesh. The top two teams in the standings will advance to the final, scheduled for February 7.