Nepal’s Final Hopes Alive: Beats Bhutan 2-1

Nepal has kept its hopes of reaching the final of SAFF U-19 Women’s Championship alive with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Bhutan.

On Monday at the Pokhara Stadium, Bhutan’s defeat against the home team meant it is almost eliminated from the final equation one match ahead of schedule.

Bhutan, trailing 2–0, pulled one goal back. With three minutes remaining in regulation time, substitute Sonam Choden scored to give Bhutan momentum.

In the 35th minute, attacking midfielder Sirjana Baduwal broke the deadlock. Advancing from the right side, she attempted a shot before reaching the penalty box, which goalkeeper Sonam Choden failed to stop.

In the 69th minute, Nepal doubled its lead. From the left side, striker Barsha provided a cutback, and unmarked Prajita Rai scored with a one-touch finish.

Nepal will play its final and decisive league match against defending champions Bangladesh on Wednesday.

With six points from two matches, Bangladesh has already taken a step toward the final. Earlier in the day, Bangladesh defeated India 2–0.