The Pakistan women’s football team secured a hard-fought draw against defending champions Bangladesh in their SAFF Women’s Championship Group A match at the Dasharath Rangsala Stadium on Sunday.
Pakistan took the lead in the 32nd minute when Zahmena Malik scored following a quick counterattack. It looked like the women in green would come away with an improbable win but Bangladesh pulled level in the 91st minute through Shamsunnahar Jr. after consistent pressure, denying Pakistan a victory in stoppage time.
Under the management of English coach Peter James Butler, Bangladesh controlled possession and created opportunities, especially through Ritu Porna’s work down the right wing. Pakistan, meanwhile, focused on counter-attacks.
The match saw some tense moments, including a brief stoppage when Pakistan captain Maria Jamila Khan collided with Shamsunnahar, as well as a long-range shot from Suha Hirani in the 25th minute that was saved by Bangladesh goalkeeper Rupna Chakma.
Zahmena’s goal came after a brilliant long pass from Rameen Fareed, allowing her to outrun Bangladesh defender Sheuli Azim and slot the ball past Rupna with a smooth finish.
In the second half, Bangladesh intensified their efforts while Pakistan defended their lead. Goalkeeper Nisha Ashraf made several crucial saves, including one from a long-range shot by substitute Masura Parvin.
Pakistan’s defense held strong until the final moments, and it looked like they would secure all three points. But Ritu Porna’s persistence paid off as she surged past Pakistan’s Sanah Mehdi and delivered a perfect cross for Shamsunnahar to head home the equalizer.
The result leaves Pakistan, with just one point from two games, following their earlier 2-5 defeat to India. Bangladesh now only needs a draw in their next match against India to reach the semi-finals, while Pakistan’s slim chances of progressing rely on other results going their way.