Bangladesh continued their winning streak in the SAFF U-20 Women’s Championship with a 4-1 victory over Bhutan in Dhaka on Tuesday, moving a step closer to the title.

The match became notable in football history for being played across two venues due to heavy rain. The first half took place at the Bashundhara Kings Arena, but after a nearly 90-minute suspension to assess pitch conditions, officials decided to shift the second half to the adjacent training ground.

Bangladesh made nine changes to their starting lineup and initially struggled to break down Bhutan’s defence. In the second minute, Trishna Rani Sarker missed a clear chance, but by the seventh minute, Shanti Mardi put Bangladesh ahead after her first attempt was blocked by the goalkeeper.

Bhutan responded early in the second half, equalising through Sangay Wangmo in the 53rd minute. However, Shanti Mardi quickly restored Bangladesh’s lead and went on to complete her hat-trick with goals in the 76th and 79th minutes. Substitute Munki Akter added a third goal in the 76th minute with a solo effort down the left flank, delivering a precise finish past the keeper.

Bangladesh now lead the standings with nine points from three matches. The next fixture will see Nepal face Sri Lanka, with that match also scheduled for the Bashundhara Kings Arena training ground.

MSK/