October 24, 2024
DHAKA – Bangladesh forward Tohura Khatun scored a brace and defender Afeida Khandaker netted one in a thumping 3-1 win over India in their final Group A game in the SAFF Women’s Championships at the Dashrath Rangasala stadium in Nepal on Wednesday.
All thee of Bangladesh’s goals came in the first half. Afeida scored the opener in the 18th minute with a clever chip from inside the box after India goalkeeper Panthoi Chanu half-cleared the corner kick from Sabina Khatun.
Tohura doubled Bangladesh’s lead right before the half-hour mark, bundling home following a cross from Rituporna. She doubled her tally with a brilliant curler from outside the box after being teed up by Shamsunnahar Jr before half-time to make it 3-0 for the defending champions.
But goalkeeper Rupna Chakma let Dalima Chhibber’s cross slip through her fingers, with Bala Devi ideally positioned to head the ball home in the 44th minute.
Bangladesh, who drew 1-1 against Pakistan in their opening fixture, go into the semis as group winners and will take on Group B runners-up.