Nepal Defeat India 3–0 in Penalty Shootout Thriller
Gangtok, Sikkim — Substitute goalkeeper Anjana Rana Magar emerged as the unlikely hero as Nepal’s national women’s football team edged India 3–0 on penalties in a gripping international friendly on Wednesday at the Paljor Stadium. The dramatic win came after regulation time ended 1–1, and the match was decided through a penalty shootout. **Anjana’s Heroics Seal Famous Win** Brought on in injury time for Usha Nath, Anjana proved to be Nepal’s saviour under pressure, saving two crucial penalties from Priyadarshini and Astam Oram, while Santosh missed another for India. Nepal’s penalty takers — Sabita Rana Magar, Rashmi Kumari Ghising, and Nisha Thokar — all converted with composure to give Nepal a clean 3–0 victory in the shootout. Only Anita Basnet’s attempt went off target, but it did not affect the outcome.  **Balanced Contest in Regulation Time** Earlier, India had taken the lead in the 30th minute when Soumya Guguloth capitalised on a defensive lapse to slot home and make it 1–0 for the hosts. Nepal, however, struck back just before the halftime whistle. In first-half stoppage time, Rashmi Kumari Ghising rose highest to head home captain Anita Basnet’s curling corner kick, levelling the score at 1–1. Both sides pressed hard in the second half, but neither could find a winner in standard time, setting the stage for a tense penalty decider. **Nepal Triumphs with Spirit and Steel** The result marks a memorable victory for the Nepali women’s team against their long-time regional rivals on Indian soil. With Anjana’s remarkable composure and the team’s fighting spirit, Nepal once again proved its ability to rise to the pressure and deliver when it matters most. This win will give the team a huge morale boost as they continue preparations for upcoming regional tournaments and international fixtures.
