SAFF U-17 Women's Championship held at Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu, Bhutan today. Photo: BSS

DHAKA, Aug 29, 2025 (BSS) : Bangladesh lost valuable points as they were forced to play 1-1 draw by host Bhutan in the crucial match of four-nation SAFF U-17 Women's Championship held at Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu, Bhutan today (Friday).

Bangladesh's dream of becoming the champion of this tournament is almost over after the draw. After five matches, Bangladesh has ten points. India are at the top with twelve points from four matches.

If India are able to beat Nepal in the second match of the day, their points will be fifteen. As a result, they will be assured of the title with one match in hand. Then the last match between Bangladesh and India will be just a matter of keeping the formality.

Bangladesh's last match against India will be held on Sunday (Aug 31) at the same venue. 

The early breakthrough came for Bangladesh in the 6th minute. Purnia Marma sent the ball home with a brilliant right-footed shot from the top of the D-Box giving no chance to Bhutanese custodian under the bar. 

Chorten Zangmo restored the parity for Bhutan in the 45+1st minute with her solo effort. Taking a pass from the mid field Chorten ran down and executed the goal with a perfect placing shot from the danger zone. 

Earlier, Bangladesh made winning start in the tournament beating host Bhutan 3-1, but lost to India by 2-0 goals. The girls in red and green however returned winning streak by defeating Nepal by 3-0 goals and again 4-1 in the return match. 

On the other hand, Bhutan lost all their four matches so far. They suffered 3-1 to Bangladesh, 1-2 to Nepal, 8-0 to India and again 5-0 to India, and already eliminated from the competition race.