Nepal thrash Lanka 4-0 to enter SAFF championship finals

Punam Jargha Magar (center) celebrates her goal with teammates against Sri Lanka in semi-finals of the Women’s SAFF Championship at Shahid Rangashala in Biratnagar on Wednesday. Photo: Udipt Singh Chhetry/THT

KATHMANDU: Nepal treated their fans to some Holi cheer with a 4-0 thrashing of Sri Lanka at Shahid Rangashala on Wednesday, entering the finals of 2019 SAFF Women’s Championship.

Although the Sri Lankan team stood firm in their defence, Nepal’s relentless search for a goal turned to delight after Puna Jargha Magar found the net in the 42nd minute.

Sabitra Bhandari (right) dribbles the ball against Rushani Gunawardana of Sri Lanka in semi-finals of the Women’s SAFF Championship at Shahid Rangasala in Biratnagar on Wednesday. Photo: Udipt Singh Chhetry/THT

On the contrary, Sri Lanka failed to mount substantial pressure against Nepal and left the pitch goalless.

Nepali side shone in their offensive prowess as the match entered final 20 minutes with Anita Basnet’s goal at 73rd minute giving Nepal a 2-0 lead. Likewise,  Sabitri Bhandari and Rekha Paudel scored one each in the dying embers of the match to seal the deal.

Anita Basnet (right) celebrates goal with team mate Sabitra Bhandari against Sri Lanka in semi-finals of Women’s SAFF Championship at Shahid Rangashala in Biratnagar on Wednesday. Photo: Udipt Singh Chhetry/THT

The Nepali women’s’ team is yet to bring home their first SAFF trophy. And after handing over a bitter defeat to the Lankan side, the Nepali side have inched closer to glory.

In the upcoming fixture, India will clash with Bangladesh in the semis-decider on Wednesday afternoon.

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