After an impressive start to the SAFF Under-17 Championship with a 3–1 victory over hosts Bhutan, Bangladesh’s under-17 girls fell to a 2–0 defeat against one of the tournament favourites, India, in their second group match.
The game kicked off at 3 pm on 22 August at the Changlimithang Stadium in Bhutan. From the outset, the Indian side dominated proceedings, scoring once in each half and leaving Bangladesh struggling to impose themselves. India took the lead in the 14th minute. Pearl Fernandes collected the ball unmarked well outside the penalty area and surged forward. Despite three defenders chasing her, she could not be stopped. Her shot, which brushed the hands of Bangladesh goalkeeper Yarjan Begum, found its way into the net.
Bangladesh came close to equalising in the 36th minute when Fatema Akter’s corner was met by Alpi Akter’s header, but it narrowly cleared the crossbar. The forward, who had scored twice against Bhutan, was visibly frustrated by the missed opportunity.
India created several more chances before half-time but were denied by the offside trap. Bangladesh, led by Arpita Biswas, also failed to take advantage of their opportunities and looked disorganised against a disciplined Indian side. Both teams initially struggled to settle after the break, with misplaced passes disrupting play.
India, holding a slender 1–0 lead, slowed the game down and looked comfortable. The decisive second goal came in the 76th minute when Bonifilia Shullai converted from close range after being left unmarked at a corner.
The defeat leaves Bangladesh with one win and one loss from two matches, on three points. Their next game is against Nepal on 24 August, where they will look to return to winning form.