Nepal began its SAFF Women’s Championship 2026 campaign with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Bhutan in their opening Group A match on Monday.

The match, played at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Margao, Goa, saw Nepal secure all three points thanks to a 23rd-minute goal from centre-back Gita Rana.

Nepal made use of a set-piece situation when Dipa Shahi delivered a corner into the box. Anita Basnet’s initial headed attempt failed to connect cleanly, allowing the ball to reach debutant Anita Lamjel. Lamjel then cut the ball back into a dangerous area, where Gita Rana’s shot took a deflection off a Bhutanese defender before finding the back of the net.

Nepal, however, had a scare early in the match. In the 14th minute, Bhutan’s high press forced goalkeeper Anjila Tumbapo Subba into a mistake as she attempted a pass to left-back Hira Kumari Bhujel. The ball was intercepted by Pema Choki, but she failed to capitalize on the opportunity.

Late in the first half, Nepal came close to doubling their lead. With eight minutes remaining, strikers Rashmi Ghising and Rekha Poudel both tested the Bhutanese defense Ghising’s effort went over the bar, while Poudel’s low shot struck the post and bounced away.

In the second half, Nepal continued to create chances, with Rekha Poudel particularly active in attack, but the team was unable to convert its opportunities into goals. Mina Deuba also found the net, but her effort was ruled out for offside.

With this victory, Nepal has moved a step closer to the semi-finals. They will next face Sri Lanka on Sunday, where even a draw will be enough to secure a place in the final four.

Bhutan is scheduled to play Sri Lanka on Thursday. If Bhutan fails to win that match, Nepal could qualify for the semi-finals with a game to spare.