Bangladesh ended their SAFF U-17 Women’s Championship campaign on a high note, stunning newly-crowned champions India with a dramatic 4-3 victory at the Changlimithang Stadium in Bhutan on Saturday [31 August].

India had already secured the title with one match to spare, but Bangladesh showed great character to avenge their earlier 2-0 defeat in the group stage.

At halftime, Bangladesh led 2-1, and a late strike from Surovi Akand Preeti sealed a memorable win for the young Tigresses.

Bangladesh struck early in the first minute when Purnima Marma headed in a long pass from Mamoni Chakma (1-0). India almost equalised in the 7th minute, but Anushka Kumari’s strike hit the crossbar.

However, two minutes later, a defensive error allowed Anushka to score with a diagonal shot (1-1). In the 34th minute, Alpi Akter restored Bangladesh’s lead with a fine finish (2-1).

Just after the break, Preeti extended the advantage to 3-1 with a clinical strike from a long pass. But India fought back. In the 65th minute, Pritika Barman chipped the ball over Bangladesh goalkeeper Meghla Rani to make it 3-2. Then, in the 89th minute, Julan Nongmaithem’s long-range effort brought India level once again (3-3).

The decisive moment came in injury time. Preeti’s powerful shot slipped through the hands of Indian goalkeeper Munni, hit the post, and rolled into the net, sealing a famous 4-3 victory for Bangladesh.

India finished the tournament with 15 points from six matches (five wins, one defeat). Bangladesh ended second with 13 points from four wins, one draw, and one loss.

Had Bangladesh not drawn with Bhutan, they too would have finished level on 15 points, leaving the title to be decided on head-to-head and goal difference.