Bangladesh Clinches First SAFF U-20 Title, Defeats Nepal 4-1

The Bangladesh U-20 national football team secured their first-ever SAFF U-20 Championship title with an impressive 4-1 victory against hosts Nepal in the final held at the ANFA Complex in Kathmandu on Wednesday.

Bangladesh showcased an outstanding performance, taking control of the match from the beginning and asserting their dominance throughout. They took the lead during added time in the first half when Mirajul Islam scored the opening goal. Mirajul continued his stellar performance in the second half, scoring again before Rabbi Hossain Rahul added another, putting Bangladesh ahead 3-0 by the 70th minute.

Although Nepal managed to score in the 80th minute, Bangladesh sealed the win with a fourth goal during stoppage time, concluding the match with a decisive 4-1 scoreline.

The first half was marked by a crucial moment when, in two minutes of added time, Mirajul Islam was fouled just outside the penalty area. He took the resulting free-kick, curling the ball perfectly into the net off the side post, silencing the home crowd and giving Bangladesh the lead.

Despite Nepal dominating possession and attacking in the first half, they failed to capitalize on their chances. Bangladesh, meanwhile, made effective use of counter-attacks and displayed patience.

Seven minutes into the second half, Bangladesh doubled their advantage when Mirajul, left unmarked in the box, headed in a cross from the left flank. Nepal, now trailing 2-0, struggled to find their rhythm, while Bangladesh continued to control the match.

In the 70th minute, Bangladesh extended their lead to 3-0 when Rabbi Hossain Rahul finished a precise pass from Mirajul. Nepal, despite their efforts, could only manage a consolation goal in the 80th minute after a defensive lapse from Bangladesh.

As the match drew to a close, Nepal pressed hard to reduce the deficit, but Bangladesh's defense remained solid. During 10 minutes of stoppage time, Bangladesh scored their fourth goal, cementing their 4-1 victory and lifting the championship trophy for the first time.