Nepal advance to finals for the first time
13 Oct. 2021 (Male') - Nepal advanced to the finals of the SAFF Championship 2021 following a 1-1 draw against Bangladesh, at the National Stadium in Male, on Wednesday.
Anjan Bista scored the all important goal for Nepal in the 88th minute from the penatly. Nepal were awarded a penalty for foul against Bista inside the penalty box by Bishwanath Gosh.
The draw meant Nepal collected seven points from four matches which was just enough to see the team through to the finals of the championship for the first time in the history.
Bangladesh came into the match needing a win to qualify for the finals as opposed to Nepal who just needed a draw to make it through.
Bangladesh went in front in the ninth itself thanks to a wonderful header from Suman Reza who slotted home from Jamal Bhuyan's free kick.
As Nepal pressed hard for the equalizer, Bangladesh made the task easier for their opponents when goalkeeper Anisur Rehman was red carded for handling the ball outside his designated area. With a man down, Bangladesh brought in second goalkeeper Ashraful Rana replacing Biplo Ahmed.
Nepal took full advantage of their opponent's sorry state creating a host of chances, but none of them could find the back of the net until Bista drew the penalty.