Nepal booked their spot in the final of the Four Nations International Women’s Championship after defeating Lebanon 1-0 at the Dasharath Stadium in Kathmandu on Thursday. Forward Sabitra Bhandari ‘Samba’ netted the only goal of the match in the 42nd minute, ensuring Nepal’s progression into the final with a game to spare.

Lebanon’s consecutive defeats also paved the way for Myanmar to reach the final. Nepal had earlier edged Kyrgyzstan 1-0 in their opening fixture. Meanwhile, Myanmar thrashed Kyrgyzstan 5-0 in Thursday’s first match, maintaining their perfect record with six points and topping the table ahead of Nepal on goal difference.

With both Nepal and Myanmar already securing their final berths, their group-stage clash on Sunday will serve as a warm-up ahead of the title showdown. On the same day, Lebanon and Kyrgyzstan will face off in a consolation battle.

Bhandari’s goal came after a sequence of chances for Nepal. Bimala Chaudhary’s corner was met by Sabita Rana Magar’s header, which a Lebanese defender cleared off the line. The ball rebounded to Bhandari, whose shot deflected off Lebanon’s Farah Taylor and into the net.

Despite multiple opportunities, Nepal failed to extend their lead. In stoppage time, Lebanon’s Zahwa Arabi came close to an equaliser, but her powerful strike rattled the crossbar. Earlier, in the 56th minute, Preeti Rai’s tame effort was easily gathered by Lebanon’s goalkeeper. Two minutes later, Bhandari set up Rana Magar, whose shot sailed over the bar.

In the first half, Nepal survived early scares. In the eighth minute, Lebanon’s Christie Maalouf forced a save from Nepali goalkeeper Anijla Tumbapo Subba.

Minutes later, Bimala Chaudhary and Preeti Rai both saw their attempts fly just over the bar.

Despite some nervous moments, Nepal held firm to secure their second consecutive victory and march into the final.