Bangladesh clinches SAFF U-20 title, defeats Nepal 4-1

Bangladesh made history by securing their first-ever SAFF U-20 Championship title with a resounding 4-1 victory over host Nepal at the Anfa Complex in Kathmandu on Wednesday. 

This win not only avenged their group stage loss to Nepal but also marked their first victory against the hosts in this tournament.

Despite Nepal's dominance in the first half, their forwards struggled to convert opportunities, and Bangladesh's resolute goalkeeper kept the score level. Bangladesh broke the deadlock just before halftime with a stunning free-kick from Mirazul Islam, which found the back of Nepal's net.

In the second half, Bangladesh extended their lead in the 55th minute when Asad Mollah's header set up Mirazul for his second goal of the match. The lead grew to 3-0 in the 71st minute as Rabbi Hossain Rahul capitalised on another assist from Mirazul.

Nepal managed to pull one back in the 81st minute due to a defensive lapse by Bangladesh. However, Bangladesh sealed their victory in injury time when Piyash Ahmed Nova finished off a cross from Rabbi Hossain Rahul, bringing the final score to 4-1.

This victory adds another prestigious title to Bangladesh's football achievements, following their gold in the South Asian Games and the women's section title.

Bangladesh XI: Mohammad Asif, Ashraful Haque Asif, Shakil Ahad Tapu, Asadul Islam Shakib, Rabbi Hossain Rahul, Piyash Ahmed Nova, Mirazul Islam, Asadul Molla, Rajib Hossain, Iftiar Hossain, and Rustom Aslam Dukhumiya.