Ritu Porna Rescues Bangladesh with Stunning Equaliser in SAFF Semifinal

A dramatic injury-time equalizer from star attacker Ritu Porna Chakma pulled defending champions Bangladesh right back into the game, leaving their high-stakes SAFF Women’s Championship 2026 semifinal clash against undefeated Nepal tied 1-1 at the halftime whistle. The thrilling final-four faceoff is currently underway at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Margao, Goa.

Entering the knockout clash under immense pressure following a heavy 0-3 group-stage defeat to hosts India, the Bengal Tigresses struggled early on to establish their usual rhythm. Taking full advantage of the initial sloppiness in the Bangladeshi defense, Nepal dominated the early tempo and focused heavily on testing the opposition with persistent long-range efforts.

Nepal Breaks Deadlock via Rana

The six-time tournament runners-up successfully broke the deadlock in the 23rd minute of the first half. Off a precisely targeted corner delivery from Dipa Shahi that sailed deep into the six-yard box, Nepalese defender Gita Rana reacted the quickest. Rana managed to expertly poke the ball over a crowded cluster of defending players and straight into the back of the net, handing Nepal a deserved 1-0 lead.

Nepal continued to push for a second insurance goal and nearly found it in the 34th minute through another dangerous Shahi corner. A Nepalese attacker connected with a powerful header inside the penalty box, but Bangladeshi goalkeeper Mili Akter pulled off a spectacular low reaction save to deny the attempt and keep the deficit at one.

Chakma Strikes Back Before the Whistle

Just when it appeared that Nepal would coast into the dugout with complete control of the match, Bangladesh orchestrated a stunning comeback in the opening minute of first-half stoppage time (45+1').

Stoppage-Time Magic: Stepping up to take a critical corner kick, Chakma fired a spectacular, curling ball directly into the net, completely bypassing the Nepalese backline and leaving the goalkeeper with absolutely no chance of a save.

The incredible direct corner strike instantly re-energized the Bangladeshi squad, neutralizing Nepal's tactical advantage right before the referee blew the whistle for the interval. With a highly coveted spot in the regional final on the line, both heavyweights head into the second half with everything left to play for.