India falls to Nepal in penalty shootout, eliminated from SAFF Women’s Championship 2024

India's journey in the SAFF Women’s Championship 2024 came to a disappointing end as they were eliminated by Nepal in the semifinals, losing 2-4 in a dramatic penalty shootout at Dasarath Stadium on Sunday. Nepal will advance to the final, where they will face Bangladesh, who triumphed over Bhutan with a decisive 7-1 victory in the other semifinal.

The match, held in front of an enthusiastic crowd, concluded in a 1-1 tie after regular time, necessitating a penalty shootout to determine the winner. The contest was marked by significant off-field drama, overshadowing the on-field action.

India initially took the lead in the 62nd minute with a stunning shot from Sangita Basfore, igniting hopes of advancing to the final. However, the momentum shifted when Nepal managed to equalize with a goal that was controversially disallowed by the referee.

The decision sparked protests from the Indian team, resulting in a lengthy pause of over 70 minutes as referee Om Choki from Bhutan mediated discussions with supervisory officials and the Nepal team. Once the match resumed, Nepal quickly equalized through their star striker, Sabitra Bhandari, a moment that proved pivotal in extending the game beyond regulation time.

In the ensuing penalty shootout, Nepal displayed composure, converting all four of their attempts. For India, only Manisha and Karishma Shirvoikar found the back of the net, while captain Ashalata Devi and Ranjana Chanu missed their opportunities, sealing India's fate in the tournament.