Pokhara, Feb 7 (NationPress) Despite competing in a tournament designated for an older age group, the India U17 women’s team proved their resilience in the final, securing the SAFF U19 Women’s Championship with a decisive 4-0 victory against Bangladesh U19 at the Pokhara Rangasala Stadium.

Captain Julan Nongmaithem (42’) initiated the scoring, followed by a penalty from Elizabed Lakra (63’), a goal from Pearl Fernandes (68’), and a final strike from substitute Anwita Raghuraman (83’), marking a remarkable comeback after their earlier round-robin loss (0-2) to Bangladesh.

The decision to send the U17 women’s national team to Pokhara was aimed at preparing the Young Tigresses for the upcoming AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup later this year.

Playing with poise and maturity beyond their years, India dominated possession and set the tempo of the match from the outset. Their off-ball movement, rapid passing sequences, and strategic use of width kept Bangladesh on the back foot, unable to establish any rhythm.

India’s game plan was straightforward: build up patiently, shift play to the flanks, and attack swiftly when opportunities arose. Midfielders Alva Devi Senjam and Pritika Barman played pivotal roles in connecting the midfield with offense, while the defense remained steadfast, limiting Bangladesh's chances.

After a prolonged search for the opening goal, India finally made the breakthrough in the 42nd minute with a beautifully orchestrated play. Alva sent a cross to the far post, where Pritika arrived unmarked, and delivered a precise pass to Julan, who found the back of the net, granting India a well-deserved lead at halftime.

Bangladesh sought to regroup during the break and created their first substantial opportunity in the 51st minute. Shanti Mardi launched a lofted ball that set Sree Moti Trishna Rani free, who maneuvered past three Indian defenders. However, with goalkeeper Munni rushing forward, Trishna’s attempt went wide, a miss that proved costly.

India capitalized on this moment shortly after. In the 63rd minute, the Young Tigresses extended their lead from the penalty spot. A long ball caused hesitation from Bangladesh goalkeeper Yearzan Begum, allowing Alva to seize the ball. As she prepared to shoot, Protima Munda fouled her from behind, leading to a penalty. Elizabed confidently converted, driving her shot into the roof of the net.

India sealed the match just five minutes later, with Pearl showcasing her opportunism. Yearzan mishandled a straightforward backpass, and Pearl swiftly capitalized, stealing the ball and slotting it home for India’s third goal.

With Bangladesh offering minimal resistance, India played with newfound confidence, and the fourth goal arrived in the 83rd minute. Alva dazzled once again down the left, cutting back for Anwita Raghuraman, who calmly finished the move to wrap up a well-deserved victory.