Bangladesh lost to reigning champions India 1-0 in the inaugural match of the SAFF Under-17 Championship 2024 at Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu Friday after conceding in added time.
Neither of the two sides managed to create a notable chance in the first half.
Bangladesh had some opportunities from set pieces but could not utilize them.
The young boys in red and green went close to scoring at the beginning of the second half but the effort from the left side of the box flew over the bar.
India were denied by the woodwork from a long ranger.
India piled pressure at the end as Sumit Sharma headed in a cross to find the back of the net as well as seal the winning goal in stoppage time.
Both the teams were the finalists of the previous edition held at the same venue last year in U-16 format.
India beat Bangladesh 2-0 in the final to clinch the title.
This time they are placed in Group A alongside the Maldives.
Bangladesh face the Maldives Sunday.
