Bangladesh's women once again demonstrated resilience and character as they battled back repeatedly to earn a 3-3 draw against Bhutan in their second match of the inaugural SAFF Women's Futsal Championship on Saturday in Nonthaburi, Thailand.
Having opened their campaign with a victory over India, Bangladesh faced a sterner examination this time and were forced to dig deep. Bhutan struck first inside five minutes when Jamyang Choden caught the Bangladesh defence off guard with a precise angled effort that slipped past goalkeeper Sabina's near post.
Bangladesh responded swiftly.
Matsushima Sumaiya restored parity just two minutes later, carrying the ball from midfield before unleashing a powerful right-footed long-range strike that found the net.
The remainder of the first half was played at a high tempo, with chances at both ends, though Bhutan goalkeeper Sangeeta stood firm to deny Krishna Rani.
The second half followed a dramatic script. Sonam Lhamo twice put Bhutan ahead, first converting a well-taken finish from a back pass and later extending the lead with another composed effort, leaving Bhutan on the brink of victory.
However, Bangladesh refused to lie down. Skipper Sabina Khatun led the revival, beating her marker to score superbly before Masura Parvin capitalised on a misplaced pass to level the match at 3-3.
Despite late pressure, neither side could find a winning goal. Bangladesh will play their third group match against Sri Lanka on Wednesday, 21 January, carrying forward belief earned through sheer perseverance.
