Football

Nepal lifted their maiden SAFF U-15 Women’s Championship title on Friday after playing out a 1-1 draw with hosts Bangladesh.

Sushila KC scored in the 14th minute and Nepal took the lead into the break.

The hosts stepped up the gears when the game resumed. Ruma Akhtar levelled the scores with a goal in the second half. 

Bangladesh had a glorious opportunity for a win when they were awarded a penalty in the 89th minute. But Nepal goalkeeper Sujata Tamang denied Bibi Rita to spark celebrations in the Nepali camp. Tamang was later adjudged the goalkeeper of the tournament.

The draw meant Nepal finished undefeated throughout the three-team double round-robin competition on 10 points.

Nepal opened their campaign with a 7-0 victory over Bhutan and beat Bangladesh 1-0 in the opening round. They overcame the challenge of an improved Bhutan 1-0 win coming into Friday’s match.

Bangladesh stood on the second step of the podium with seven points, while Bhutan finished without a point after losing all four games.

Bangladesh’s Sauravi Akanda Prity, who scored nine goals in four outings, was named player of the tournament.