Bangladesh fight back to secure final spot

Mosammat Sagorika struck a dramatic stoppage-time winner as defending champions Bangladesh came from behind to beat Nepal 2-1 in a keenly-contested SAFF Women's Championship first semifinal on Wednesday, securing a third consecutive appearance in the tournament final.

The substitute forward flicked home a low cross from Shamsunnahar Jr in the third minute of stoppage time at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Margaon, capping a spirited Bangladesh comeback after a sluggish start had left them trailing.

Despite another below-par display, Peter Butler's side found a way to prevail and keep alive their hopes of a third straight SAFF title.

Nepal took the lead in the 23rd minute through Dipa Shahi after Bangladesh struggled to impose themselves in the opening stages.

However, Ritu Porna Chakma restored parity on the stroke of halftime with a stunning Olympic goal, curling a corner directly into the net in stoppage-time to breathe life into Bangladesh's performance.

As the match appeared destined for extra time, Bangladesh found the decisive breakthrough. Sagorika, who had replaced Anika Rania in the 71st minute, made no mistake from close range after fellow substitute Shamsunnahar Jr burst into the box from the right flank and squared the ball across goal following a well-timed through pass.

The victory sends Bangladesh into the June 6 final, where they will face the winners of Wednesday's second semifinal between India and Bhutan.

It was also Bangladesh's third consecutive victory over Nepal in the SAFF Women's Championship, having beaten them in the finals of the previous two editions.