In a rain-soaked, mud-caked battlefield of a football pitch, Bangladesh’s U-20 women’s team defied adversity to seal a dramatic 3–2 victory over Nepal in the SAFF U-20 Women’s Championship, thanks to Trishna Rani Sarkar’s stoppage-time stunner.
The host nation came out strong in their second fixture of the tournament at the Bir Sherestha Shaheed Shipahi Mostafa Kamal Stadium. Bangladesh dominated the first half with structured build-ups and sharp pressing. Their efforts were rewarded when Shantika delivered a pinpoint cross into the box which was clinically converted by Sagarika, giving Bangladesh a deserved early lead.
But the second half turned into a different contest altogether. Nepal clawed their way back when Anisha Rai equalised from the penalty spot in the 76th minute. Just four minutes later, Trishna squandered a golden chance for Bangladesh, and the pressure began to shift.
By the 86th minute, Nepal took full advantage of Bangladesh’s vulnerable high line and waterlogged defensive third. Mina Dewua netted the second equaliser with a composed finish after a rebound off the post. The final 20 minutes of regulation time saw Nepal dominate possession and push relentlessly for a winner.
Though only seven minutes of stoppage time were indicated, an injury to Bangladeshi goalkeeper Swarnarani extended the added time. And it was in the 90+12th minute that Trishna redeemed herself. Latching onto a loose ball in the box, she fired home the decisive goal, sparking wild celebrations and rescuing three crucial points for Bangladesh.
The win not only maintains Bangladesh’s perfect record in the tournament but also exemplifies the team’s growing tactical maturity and psychological grit, coming back in adverse weather, under pressure, and when everything seemed to slip away.
SAFF U-20 Women’s Championship
Venue: Bir Sherestha Shaheed Shipahi Mostafa Kamal Stadium, Dhaka
Date: Saturday, 13 July 2025
Final Score: Bangladesh 3 – 2 Nepal
Scorers:
- Sagarika (BD) 1st half
- Anisha Rai (NP) 76′ (pen)
- Mina Dewua (NP) 86′
- Krishna Rani Sarkar (BD) 90+12′
Player of the Match: Krishna Rani Sarkar
Weather: Heavy rain, muddy pitch
Crowd: Moderate attendance despite weather