Nepal Edge Bhutan in Gritty SAFF U-20 Opener
MALE – Nepal began their SAFF U-20 Championship with a gritty 2-1 win over Bhutan on Sunday at the National Football Stadium. The close score masked the match's high intensity. **Early Drama and Direct Punishment** The match intensified just five minutes after kickoff, as the Bhutanese defence made an early error. This miscommunication led goalkeeper Tandin Penjor to handle a deliberate back-pass, which awarded Nepal an indirect free kick. Seizing the opportunity, Nepal’s forwards combined smartly, and Sujan Dangol scored at the near post, giving Nepal an early lead.  The momentum swung further in Nepal’s favour in the 14th minute. Nepal gained even more momentum in the 14th minute when Bhutan’s Thinley Yeszer got a second yellow card for a rough tackle on Nepali goalkeeper Pemba Norbu Bhote, leaving Bhutan with ten players. Even with the extra man, Nepal couldn’t finish the game before halftime. Captain Dharmendra Kunwar came close but missed a chance at the far post during stoppage time. Nepal doubled their advantage through a moment of pure individual brilliance. Attacking midfielder Subash Bam collected the ball well outside the area and unleashed a screaming long-range strike that picked out the top corner. It was a world-class finish. Despite their disadvantage, the “Dragon Boys” refused to fade away. Bhutan did not give up and, even with one player less, fought back in the 83rd minute when Dhendup Gyeltshen finished a quick pass from Kelden Dorje and scored past Pemba. Riding this momentum, Bhutan pushed forward after that goal. The nine minutes of added time saw Bhutan pile intense pressure on the Nepali defence as they desperately searched for an equaliser. Ultimately, Nepal’s backline held firm under the late barrage to secure all three points in Group A.
