By Sachit Subba • Football • Dec 17, 2025 15:22 PM • 32 views
KATHMANDU – In a tactical stalemate at Dasharath Stadium on Wednesday, Nepal APF Club drew 0-0 against India’s East Bengal FC in the final round-robin fixture of the SAFF Women’s Club Championship. East Bengal finished as group winners on goal difference, while the hosts settled for the runners-up spot.
Despite the lack of goals, the match was a high-stakes rehearsal for the final, as both teams had already secured their places in the title decider before kickoff.
Missed Opportunities and Defensive Lapses
The first half was defined by a massive “what if” for APF. In the 40th minute, the home side was given a golden opportunity after a rare lapse by veteran Indian international Ashalata Devi. The defender lost her footing during a clearance, allowing APF striker Rashmi Kumari Ghising to pounce on the loose ball.
With only the keeper to beat, Ghising hesitated inside the box and failed to shoot before the defence recovered. That moment likely would have changed the group standings.p up the pressure, searching for a breakthrough to silence the Kathmandu crowd. However, APF’s captain and goalkeeper, Anjana Rana Magar, stood tall, producing a series of crucial saves to keep her clean sheet intact.
In stoppage time, APF had one last chance to claim victory and the top spot. Saru Limbu struck from distance, but the East Bengal keeper parried the shot to ensure the points were split.
A Strategic Draw?
While fans may have hoped for more clinical finishing, this match was a masterclass in defensive organisation from both sides. For APF, not capitalizing on Ashalata Devi’s error will be a talking point in the dressing room. Still, their defensive solidity against East Bengal provides a morale boost for the final. Watch, with the group stage formalities over, the pressure shifts to the final, where “almost” goals won’t be enough to lift the trophy.
