SAFF U17 Women's C'ship: India eye crown after redemption victory against rivals Bangladesh

Thimpu, Aug 23 (IANS) There was some sense of redemption for the Indian girls when they defeated Bangladesh 2-0 in the SAFF U-17 Women's Championship on Friday. Last year in the U16 tournament in Nepal, they had lost to them twice — in the group stage and the final. This win not only handed the Young Tigresses three points, but also instilled a stronger belief that they can not only win against tough opponents, but also win dominantly.

"The one thing on my mind before I went onto the field was that last year we had lost both matches against Bangladesh in the SAFF U16, so I wanted to go in, score, and make a difference because it was such an important game," said Bonifilia Shullai, who came on as a substitute and scored the second goal in the 76th minute. "When we went up for that corner, I looked around in the box and all of our players who lost the final were there. I remember most of the Bangladesh players too," the 15-year-old midfielder shared.

The Bangladesh defence was left stunned when Bonifilia sneaked in unmarked at the far post, stuck her leg out and volleyed in fellow Meghalaya teammate Alisha Lyngdoh's corner.

"I would like to thank God because he’s given me the strength and the health so that I can be fit to play this game well. Our team has been working very hard, and they deserve the win. I would like to thank all my teammates, coaches, and staff who supported me and gave me this chance. I feel more confident and boosted for the upcoming matches," added Bonifilia.

Forward Pearl Fernandes, who opened the scoring in the 14th minute, was also part of last year's squad and felt a huge relief after her left-footed shot found the net. She sank to her knees, thanked God, and let her teammates bury her with hugs.

"The moment the ball hit the net, it was just pure relief. I went down on my knees to thank God because I had been waiting for this. Last year was tough, so this goal really meant a lot to me," said the 16-year-old Goan.

The redemption isn't complete because the trophy is still four matches away. In their third match, India will face hosts Bhutan on Sunday (August 25) at the Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu. The match will be streamed live on the Indian Football YouTube Channel.

After two matchdays, India sit pretty at the top with six points, nine goals scored, and none conceded. Bangladesh and Nepal have three points each, but Bhutan is yet to open its account. The home side lost 1-3 against Bangladesh and 1-2 against Nepal. The team with the most points at the end of the sixth and final matchday on August 31, where India will play Bangladesh again, will be crowned champions.

India head coach Joakim Alexandersson was buoyed by the statement win as his girls created plenty of scoring opportunities, while conceding virtually no danger at their goal. Goalkeeper Munni had an easier outing than the opening match against Nepal, which was won 7-0.

"A 2-0 win, but I think it could have been even more. We were definitely the better team. And as long as the scoreline is just 1-0, there’s always a bit of nervousness, so it was good to get the second goal. Still, over the 90 minutes, our girls played a very good game, and I’m very proud of them.

"I think this was a very important win. And since Bangladesh is a traditional rival of India, it will really help boost the girls’ confidence. Now, we’re looking forward to the upcoming games," said the Swede.

While Bhutan may have lost both games so far, they have demonstrated that they are a much-improved side than last year. Lobzang Dorji's side are the only team other than India to have scored in both games so far, and will also enjoy the home support.

"Bhutan will be a challenge for sure. They gave Bangladesh a very hard game. They’re well-organised defensively, and also have some creative and speedy players up front. So we’ll have to approach the match with full seriousness. But yes, we’re looking forward to it," said Alexandersson.

--IANS

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