Margao: Bangladesh remained on course for a third consecutive SAFF Women's Championship title, but needed an own goal in added time to overcome Nepal 2-1 in the semifinal at Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, on Wednesday.
Nepal's early dominance
Nepal, who have reached five finals without winning, looked poised to make it six after taking the lead in the 23rd minute. Gita Rana scored from a corner delivered by Dipa Shahi, placing the ball beyond goalkeeper Mile Akter's reach. Nepal nearly doubled their lead when Preeti Rai's long-range effort hit the crossbar.
Bangladesh's equalizer
Bangladesh struggled to create chances from open play, prompting coach Peter Butler to make two substitutions before halftime. The move paid off when Ritu Chakma scored a rare Olimpico—scoring directly from a corner kick—to level the match just before the break.
Second-half drama
Nepal dominated the second half and struck the woodwork again through Pehka Poudel, but could not find the net. As the match entered six minutes of added time, Bangladesh launched a counterattack. Ritu Chakma won the ball in midfield and fed Shamsunnahar on the right, who set up substitute Mst Sagorika. The ball went in off Nepal midfielder Preeti Rai, credited as an own goal.
The result was heartbreak for Nepal, who lost the last two finals to Bangladesh. Bangladesh will now face the winner of the other semifinal in Saturday's final.
