Girls keep hopes alive with win against Nepal

Bangladesh kept their hopes of defending the SAFF U-18 Women's Championship title alive with a come-from-behind 2-1 win against Nepal at the JRD Tata Academy ground in Jamshedpur on Wednesday night.

The second victory in the three matches means Bangladesh raised their points tally to six, three less than leaders India, who will play against Bangladesh in the group last match on Friday.

If India can secure only one point in that match, they will emerge unbeaten champions.

However, Bangladesh still have a chance to become champions. In that case, Bangladesh must secure a victory over India with at least a two-goal margin as the head-to-head will come first to decide the group leaders and then the goal difference between two tied teams will be considered.

The charges of Golam Rabbani Choton conceded the lead in the fourth minute when Nepalese forward Amisha Karki danced past onrushing Bangladesh goalkeeper Rupna Chakma after availing a long ball and scored with an angular shot.

Bangladesh, who beat Nepal 4-2 in their first match, had to wait for an hour to level the margin when captain Shamsunnahar rose high to nod a corner kick home in the 64th minute. Shahada Akter Ripa then sealed the win in the 84th minute.