SAFF Championship – Bimal scores Extra Time Goal to Confirm Nepal’s Draw

Bimal Gharti Magar becomes youngest player ever for Nepal to score a goal as he scores in extra time to ease Nepal’s way in the semifinal.
Jaggu’s absence in starting 11 means all Jumanu, Anil and Bharat Khawas started as coach Jack Stefanowski fielded Nepal in a 4-4-2 formation, starting Bharat and Bhola Silwal from flanks and Anil-Jumanu combination at the center.

The host experienced early shock in the game as they conceded a goal through corner.  Hassan scored his first goal in the tournament so far to take the lead for Pakistan through a half volley on a corner.

With a goal down, Nepal remained under pressure and the misspass remained one of the main problem in the game.

Pakistan could have doubled in 22^nd minute but Kaleemullah failed to give small touch which could have been the match changing goal. Faisal Iqbal’s cross from right was directed well enough to Kaleemullah who failed to touch the ball for a goal. The second scary moment arose for Nepal when Kiran Chemjong advanced forward to tangle with Sagar Thapa, Hassan got an empty post but his shot from 20 yard went over the cross bar, luck to Nepalese supporters.

Sandip Rai’s untimely jump in 40^th minute missed Nepal an opportunity to come back in the first half of the game. The Free kick from Raju Tamang found Sandip Rai who jumped earlier to guide the ball away from the target.

Nepal started the second half with a goal behind but remained the dominating side in attack. They improved on passing and continued the attacking game. The attack started with Tanka Basnet’s through ball but Jumanu’s late reaction gave Pakistan defender to make good tackle to deny the goal scoring chance.

Bhola Silwal remained superb throughout the match as he was active all in defending, attacking and maintaining the possession. He made couple of great runs one of which included 80 minute show where he cut passed few defenders to give the ball to Bimal Gharti Magar who’s left footed shot went over the target.

Nepal were near to tragic loss but second minute of the extra time evidenced something historical as Bimal Gharti Magar made his name as the youngest goal scorer for Nepal. Sagar Thapa’s cross was tipped away by the goalkeeper and the ball falls on Bimal who makes left footed shot to initiate a long continious shout at Dasarath Rangashala.

Nepal and India are tied up in  points with one win and a draw each. A draw in the Nepal vs India match means both advance to the final round of the tournament.