Thimpu: A dominant India scored once in each half to blank Bangladesh 2-0 and record their second straight win in the SAFF U-17 Women’s Championships here on Friday.
Pearl Fernandes (14th) and Bonifilia Shullai (76th) were the scorers for India, consolidating their top position in the group with six points from two victories.
Both sides came into the contest with a rich history of rivalry in the competition — four finals contested, two titles apiece. Yet, the match never truly lived up to the expectations.
In the 14th minute, centre-back Divyani Linda made an inspired run from deep, picking up a loose ball and bulldozing her way through the midfield. As defenders converged on her, she smartly laid it off to Pearl, who had been left unmarked at the edge of the box. Given the time and space, Pearl unleashed a powerful left-footed effort. Though Bangladesh keeper Yearzan Begum got her gloves to it, she couldn’t keep it out.
The second half followed a similar rhythm with India dictating possession and Bangladesh defending deep. Although chances became rarer, India never looked in danger.
In the 76th minute, it struck from a set-piece. Alisha Lyngdoh curled in a corner from the right and found substitute Bonifilia Shullai unmarked. Positioning herself perfectly, Shullai guided her header into the net, doubling India’s advantage.
The remaining minutes were managed with maturity. India slowed the game down, held shape, and denied Bangladesh any late resurgence to take home three points.
