Bangladesh strengthened their bid for a place in the final of the SAFF Under-19 Women’s Championship with a solid 2–0 victory over India in Pokhara, Nepal on Monday, February 2.
The defending joint champions delivered a composed first-half performance, scoring twice before the break to register their second consecutive win in the tournament. Bangladesh had opened their campaign with a dominant 12–0 win over Bhutan.
Arpita Biswas gave Bangladesh the lead in the 30th minute, finishing clinically to put her side in control. The pressure continued, and Alpi Akter doubled the advantage ten minutes later with a well-placed strike in the 40th minute.
Bangladesh maintained their dominance after halftime, creating several attacking opportunities, though no further goals were added. India attempted to mount a response but were unable to breach the Bangladeshi defense or reduce the deficit.
Alpi Akter was named Player of the Match, receiving the award from Mahfuza Akter Kiran, Chairperson of the Women’s Wing of the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF).
With two wins from two matches, Bangladesh sit on six points at the top of the group. India remain on three points after their opening-match victory over Nepal. Later on Monday, Bhutan are scheduled to face hosts Nepal, with a draw in that match set to confirm Bangladesh’s place in the final.
Bangladesh will play Nepal in their final group fixture on 4 February, while India face Bhutan on the same day.
RI/MHK