Bangladesh beat Pakistan in a thrilling encounter to reach SAFF U-17 final

Bangladesh advanced to the final of the SAFF Under-17 Championship after a thrilling penalty shootout victory over Pakistan in Thimphu. The match ended 2-2 after 90 minutes, with Bangladesh equalizing dramatically in the 94th minute. In the penalty shootout, Bangladesh triumphed 8-7. Substitute Mohammad Manik scored both of Bangladesh's goals, while substitute goalkeeper Alif Rahman Imtiaz made a game-changing save during the shootout. Bangladesh will now face defending champions India in the final on Monday. India secured their spot by defeating Nepal 4-2 in the other semi-final. Bangladesh's path to the final was uncertain after a draw against the Maldives in their second group stage match, with their progression reliant on the outcome of the India-Maldives game. Coach Saiful Bari Titu made six substitutions during the match, bringing Alif on as the final change in the 97th minute.