Bangladesh will lock horns with India in their final match of the four-nation SAFF U-17 Women’s Championship tomorrow (Sunday) at the Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu, Bhutan. The match kicks off at 3 pm Bangladesh time.

In the day’s second fixture, Nepal will take on host Bhutan at 6 pm at the same venue.

The encounter against India, however, has become a mere formality as India have already secured the championship title with a game to spare.

Bangladesh started the tournament on a positive note, defeating host Bhutan 3-1 in their opening match. But the girls in red and green stumbled against India, suffering a 2-0 defeat. They bounced back strongly by outplaying Nepal 3-0 and 4-1 in back-to-back encounters, keeping alive their hopes of the title race.

However, a 1-1 draw against Bhutan dashed Bangladesh’s dream of clinching the SAFF U-17 Women’s Championship crown.

Despite missing out on the title, the young footballers showcased resilience and promising performances throughout the tournament, raising hopes for the future of women’s football in the country.

Bangladesh U-17 squad: Yearzan Begum, Meghla Rani Roy, Tania Akter Fomi, Arpita Biswas Arpita, Fatema Akter, Umma Kulsum, Arifa Akter, Mst Almina, Mst Resme Akther, Thuinuye Marma, Sauravi Akanda Prity, Kranuching Marma, Reya, Alpi Akter, Protima Rani Joba Rani, Sorovi Rani, Mamoni Chakma, Ishita Tripura, Purnima Marma and Mst Amena Khatun.

MN/