Bangladesh finally ended its long wait for the SAFF U-20 Men’s Championship title, triumphing in commanding fashion by defeating Nepal 4-1 in the final at the ANFA Complex on Wednesday.
The nation had previously endured the heartbreak of returning empty-handed from the championship on three occasions. Despite coming close, the U-20 team had never managed to secure the coveted title. This time, however, they embarked on a mission to bring the trophy home, determined to break the cycle of disappointment.
With this emphatic victory, the Mirajul-led Bangladesh team lifted the SAFF U-20 Championship trophy for the first time, marking a historic achievement for the country in this age category.
Mirajul opened the scoring at the end of the first half with a fantastic free-kick that combined both power and accuracy, leaving the Nepalese goalkeeper with no chance.
Bangladesh's second goal came quickly in the 55th minute, with Mirajul finding the net again. In the 70th minute, Rabbi Hossain Rahil joined the scoring spree, and at that point, it seemed Bangladesh was on its way to an easy victory. However, about five minutes later, Nepal’s Samir Tamang scored, causing a brief moment of concern for Bangladesh.
But in the 10 minutes of added time, Piyas Ahmed Nova scored a goal that erased all uncertainties in the match, leading to a massive 4-1 victory celebration as Bangladesh claimed the title.
Starting XI
Bangladesh: Md Asif (GK); Ashraful Haque Asif (C), Shakil Ahad Topu, Asadul Islam Sakib, Rabbi Hossain Rahil, Piash Ahmed Nova, Mirajul Islam, Asadul Molla, Rajib Hossain, Iftiar Hossain, Rostom Mia.
Nepal: Jiyarat Shekh (GK); Kushal Deuba (C), Ram Thapa, Sabin Ghimire, Semanta Thapa, Ashwin Ghorasainee, Samir Tamang, Nirajan Dhami, Niraj Karki, Abinash Syangtan, Lachhu Thapa.
