Bangladesh made history in South Asian football by securing their first-ever SAFF U-20 Championship title with a resounding 4-1 victory over Nepal in the final at the ANFA Complex in Lalitpur. The win marks a significant milestone for the Bengal Tigers, who claimed the trophy after nine years of the tournament’s inception.
The final saw standout performances from Mirajul Islam, who scored twice, Rabby Hossen Rahul, who added a third goal, and Piash Ahmmed Nova, who sealed the victory with a fourth. This victory is particularly momentous as Bangladesh had been runners-up in the 2017, 2019, and 2022 editions of the championship, which had been previously dominated by Nepal and India.
Nepal, who had been considered the favorites with home-field advantage and after having defeated Bangladesh 2-1 in the group stage, struggled to capitalize on their opportunities. Despite their strong start and Bangladesh’s formidable defense, the home team fell short in front of a determined Bangladeshi side.
One of Nepal’s best chances came early in the match when Nirajan Dhami’s powerful efforts were thwarted by Bangladesh’s goalkeeper Md Asif, who was standing in for the injured captain Mehdi Hasan Srabon. Dhami’s attempt in the 21st minute, which saw him break through Bangladesh’s defense, was ultimately squandered as Abinash Syangtan failed to convert a close-range opportunity.
Bangladesh took advantage of Nepal’s missed opportunities, taking the lead in the dying moments of the first half with a spectacular freekick from Mirajul Islam. The momentum shifted entirely after this goal, and Bangladesh emerged as the stronger side in the second half.
Mirajul continued to shine, scoring again in the 55th minute after outmaneuvering the Nepali defenders to head in a goal that left Nepal reeling. With a two-goal lead, Bangladesh pressed on, with Rahul scoring the third goal in the 71st minute after an impressive setup by Mirajul.
Nepal managed to pull one back in the 80th minute through Samir Tamang, but Bangladesh’s defense remained unyielding. In the sixth minute of stoppage time, Nova sealed the victory, scoring Bangladesh’s fourth goal and ending any hopes of a Nepali comeback.
Mirajul Islam was named the most valuable player of the tournament, while goalkeeper Md Asif was awarded the best goalkeeper title. Nepal, despite the loss, received the fair play award.
Bangladesh U-20 team coach AKM Maruful Haque, who previously coached the senior national team in the 2015 SAFF Cup, dedicated the victory to the heroes who have sacrificed for Bangladesh. He expressed hope that this win would inspire the nation.
Reflecting on the final and the championship, Haque shared, “I instructed my players to start slow and keep it simple because we had limited rest and were up against a talented team. Our strategy paid off in the end.”