India Exits SAFF Women’s Championship 2024
Intense Semi-Final Against Nepal
In a thrilling semi-final match at the Dasharath Stadium in Kathmandu, India was eliminated from the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Women’s Championship 2024 after losing to Nepal 2-4 in a penalty shoot-out. The match ended in a 1-1 draw after full-time, leading to the shoot-out.
Match Highlights
India took the lead in the 62nd minute with a stunning goal by Sangita Basfore. However, the game was marred by controversy when Nepal’s equalizer was initially denied by the referee, causing a 70-minute delay as the Nepal team protested. The match resumed, and Nepal’s Sabitra Bhandari scored the equalizer, pushing the game into extra time.
Penalty Shoot-Out Drama
In the penalty shoot-out, Nepal successfully converted all four of their attempts, while only Manisha and Karishma Shirvoikar scored for India. Indian captain Ashalata Devi and Ranjana Chanu missed their shots, sealing India’s fate in the tournament.
Controversial Moments
The match saw several controversial moments, including the expulsion of Nepal’s Rekha Poudel for a second yellow card. The situation escalated when Nepal attempted to score during India’s goal celebration, leading to further disputes and delays.
Looking Ahead
Nepal will face Bangladesh in the final, while India reflects on a match filled with drama and unexpected turns.
Doubts Revealed
SAFF Women’s Championship -: SAFF Women’s Championship is a football tournament for women’s national teams in South Asia. SAFF stands for South Asian Football Federation, which organizes this event. Teams from countries like India, Nepal, and others compete to win the championship.
Penalty shoot-out -: A penalty shoot-out is a way to decide the winner of a football match when the score is tied after regular play. Players take turns trying to score a goal from a set distance, and the team with more goals wins.
Dasharath Stadium -: Dasharath Stadium is a sports stadium located in Kathmandu, Nepal. It is used for various sports events, including football matches like the SAFF Women’s Championship.
Red card -: A red card in football means a player has to leave the game because they broke the rules badly. It is a serious penalty, and the team has to play with one less player.
Disputed goal -: A disputed goal happens when there is disagreement about whether a goal should count. This can happen if there is confusion about the rules or if the referee’s decision is questioned.
