Bhutan’s journey in the ongoing SAFF under-19 Championship has come to a heartbreaking end. The young dragons lost to Pakistan on penalties in the first semi-final match of the tournament played today. Pakistan will now play against either India or Nepal who are currently playing the second semi-final match, in the final of the Championship on Saturday.
Team Bhutan dominated through most of the game but despite several attempts, failed to score a goal. In the second half, Pakistan stayed back focusing on defence as the Bhutanese team continued their efforts to break the deadlock once again.
With the match ending in a goalless draw at the end of the ninety minutes, the game went straight into penalties.
All five shooters from each side converted their spot kicks taking the penalty shootout into sudden death. The Pakistani goalkeeper saved the next kick while the Pakistan team converted the next kick cementing Bhutan’s exit from the tournament.
Despite the loss, the Bhutanese team should take pride in having reached this far in the Championship.
The team defeated Bangladesh 4-3 on Saturday in what was a thrilling encounter in the group stages to reach the semis. The team again showed great strength in the second group match against India on Monday. The team took the lead in the first half but unfortunately could not hold back the defending champions who ran out 2-1 winners.
Six teams including Bhutan took part in the championship.
Karma Wangdi
Edited by Yeshi Gyaltshen
