Defending champions Bangladesh surged into the SAFF Women’s Championship final with a resounding 7-1 victory over Bhutan in the semifinal match held at Dasharath Rangasala Stadium in Kathmandu, Nepal, on Sunday.
Bangladesh will face either India or host Nepal in the final, set for October 30 at the same venue.
Striker Tohura Khatun stole the spotlight with a brilliant hat-trick that propelled Bangladesh to the decisive win. In addition to Tohura’s three goals, captain Sabina Khatun scored twice, while Ritu Porna Chakma and Masura Parvin contributed with a goal each.
Bangladesh began their dominance early, with Ritu Porna Chakma scoring in the 7th minute, assisted by Tohura. Tohura then doubled the lead in the 15th minute with a left-footed strike from the top of the box.
Though Sabina Khatun’s shot in the 24th minute struck the post, she capitalized soon after with a third goal for Bangladesh in the 26th minute. Tohura added her second and the team’s fourth in the 35th minute, followed by Sabina’s second goal in the 37th minute to make it 5-0.
Bhutan pulled one back in the 41st minute through Deki Lhazom, but Bangladesh continued their momentum in the second half. Tohura completed her hat-trick in the 56th minute, and Masura Parvin sealed the victory with a header in the 71st minute.
Tohura was named Player of the Match for her outstanding performance.
Bangladesh made a tactical adjustment for the match, bringing in striker Mosammat Sagorika in place of Shamsunnahar Jr., who had played in the previous match against India.
Bangladesh Starting XI: Rupna Chakma, Sabina Khatun, Sheuli Azim, Shamsunnahar Sr., Afeida Khandaker, Monika Chakma, Tohura Khatun, Ritu Porna Chakma, Mosammat Sagorika, Masura Parvin, and Maria Manda.
