Kathmadu, 25 August. In a thrilling first semi-final match of the SAFF U-20 Championship, Nepal defeated Bhutan to secure their place in the final. Nepal won the match 4-1 in a penalty shootout after the game ended 1-1 after full time. Nepal’s goalkeeper, Jiyarat Shekh, emerged as the hero of the night, making two crucial saves during the penalties and even scoring the final goal that sealed Nepal’s win.
The match began with both teams having numerous opportunities, but neither side could find the net before halftime. Bhutan’s coach was shown a yellow card in the 14th minute for stepping onto the field in frustration over a referee’s decision. Bhutan took the lead in the 56th minute when Jetsuen Dorji scored a stunning goal from outside the penalty box, following two near misses in the 54th and 55th minutes by his teammates
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Nepal responded in the 78th minute with a beautifully headed goal by Nirajan Dhami, assisted by Lachhu Thapa, just after Bhutan’s Kinley Gyeltshen received a red card. Despite their efforts, Nepal’s performance in the first half was an unimpressive performance, with the team struggling to execute their game plan.
Nepal’s coach admitted post-match, “We couldn’t perform according to our plan. Our players were a bit overconfident in the first half, which caused us big trouble. We took Bhutan too lightly, but our strategy and determination ultimately brought us a good result. Our goalkeeper did a fantastic job.”
Bhutan’s coach, though disappointed, praised his team, saying, “I am happy with my boys. We played a good game and gained valuable experience from this match. Our hosts were excellent, and we look forward to better results in future games.”
Nepal will now face the winner of the second semi-final between India and Bangladesh in the championship final.
