Kathmandu: Bangladesh successfully defended their SAFF Women's Championship title, defeating host nation Nepal 2-1 in a thrilling final match held under the lights at Dasarath Stadium in Tripureswar. This win marks Bangladesh’s second consecutive championship, following their 3-1 victory over Nepal in the 2022 final.

The game remained scoreless in the first half, with both teams creating chances but unable to find the back of the net. Bangladesh broke the deadlock early in the second half when Monica Chakma scored in the 52nd minute, putting her team in the lead. However, Nepal quickly equalized just four minutes later, with Amisha Karki making it 1-1.

The match took a decisive turn in the 81st minute when Bangladesh’s Ritu Porna Chakma delivered a cross from the left flank that beat Nepal’s goalkeeper, giving Bangladesh a 2-1 lead. Nepal struggled to mount further attacks in the remaining minutes, including an additional five minutes of stoppage time, leaving the final score 2-1 in favor of Bangladesh.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli was among the dignitaries at the full-house stadium and awarded the trophy and medals to the champions and runners-up. The event was also attended by Deputy Prime Minister Prakashman Singh, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, Minister for Youth and Sports Tejulal Chaudhary, and ANFA President Pankaj Nembang.

This final marked Nepal’s sixth appearance as runners-up in the SAFF Women's Championship, having lost four times to India and now twice to Bangladesh. India holds the record with five titles, while Bangladesh’s latest victory brings their total to two consecutive championships. Nepal reached the final after defeating India in a dramatic 4-2 penalty shootout in the semi-finals, while Bangladesh secured their spot with a commanding 7-1 win over Bhutan.