Staff Correspondent
India had already secured the SAFF U-17 Women’s Championship title, making today’s match against Bangladesh a mere formality. But it turned into a thriller, as Bangladesh sealed a 4-3 victory with a stoppage-time winner.
Bangladesh led 2-1 at halftime, thanks to an early header from Purnima Marma and a scrappy finish from Alpi Akter. In the second half, Suravi Akand Preeti extended the lead, but India struck back twice, equalizing in the 88th minute to make it 3-3.
Then came the drama. In the dying moments of stoppage time, Suravi’s strike slipped through the Indian goalkeeper’s grip, hit the post, and rolled into the net. As the final whistle blew, Bangladesh erupted in joy while the Indian players left the pitch in tears.
Match-winner Suravi Akand Preeti was named Player of the Match.
In the four-team double round-robin format, India finished top with 15 points from six games to lift the trophy. Bangladesh ended second with 13 points. Had they not drawn against Bhutan, the title could have been decided on head-to-head and goal difference.