India lose to Bangladesh in SAFF U-15 semifinal

KATHMANDU: Defending champions India crashed out in the semifinals of the SAFF U-15 Championship after suffering a heartbreaking loss to neighbours Bangladesh on penalties on Thursday. India took an early lead in the first half via a long-ranger from Harsh Patre but a 93rd-minute penalty from Ashkul Rahman saw the match go past regulation time. In the end, however, the Indians experienced heartbreak as Bangladesh won 4-2 on penalties. In the first half, Bangladesh took the early initiative and launched a flurry of attacks. However, India were alert and looked to capitalise on any opportunity to hit their neighbours on the counter. (PTI)