Bangladesh lift their first SAFF U-20 title thrashing hosts Nepal

Mirajul Islam scores a brace and has an assist in historic win

Mirajul Islam performance has powered Bangladesh to a 4-1 victory over hosts Nepal in the SAFF U-20 Championship final, marking the country's first South Asian title in this age group.

Bangladesh went ahead with a stunning free-kick from Mirajul in the dying moments of the first half at the ANFA Complex in Lalitpur, Nepal on Wednesday.

His strike deflected off the post and into the net.

In the second half, Mirajul extended the lead with a well-placed header from Asadul Islam Sakib’s long pass.

The momentum shifted firmly in Bangladesh's favour, and the scoreline was cemented by goals from Rabbi Hossain Rahul and Piyash Ahmmed Nova.

Rahul scored in the 70th minute with a curling shot, while Nova put the icing on the cake in added time after a clever pass from Rabbi.

The win not only marked Bangladesh's first title in the U-20 category but also served as sweet revenge after they were beaten by Nepal 2-1 in the group stage and finished as runners-up in their group.

Bangladesh had previously lost to India in the final of the 2022 U-20 edition, but this time, they overcame India in the semi-finals, winning 4-3 in a tense penalty shootout to advance to the final.

The match saw some early tension with Nepal dominating the initial exchanges, and Bangladeshi goalkeeper Asif Hossain making crucial saves.

Despite Nepal's efforts, including a close chance from Samir Tamang and a long-range shot from Nirajan Dhami, they were unable to convert their opportunities.

The victory caps off a successful tournament for Bangladesh, showcasing their progress and determination in youth football.