Nepal’s dream of winning their first major title in women’s football was dashed once again on Wednesday as Myanmar defeated the Nepali team 2-0 in the final of the International Women’s Championship at Dasharath Stadium.

Although Nepal maintained control during the first half of the game, they failed to capitalise on their dominance, with Myanmar scoring twice in quick succession during the second half. Myanmar took the lead in the 62nd minute with a goal from Yu Per Khine. With Nepal trailing by one goal, the pressure further mounted with the opponent scoring their second on the 64th minute.

Despite creating some opportunities, Nepal could not break through the Myanmar defence. In the 70th minute, Rashmi Kumari’s strike was saved by Myanmar goalkeeper Myo Mya Mya Nyein.

The first half ended goalless, with Nepal’s Bimala BK preventing a certain goal in the 24th minute after Myanmar’s San Thaw Thaw’s attempt was cleared off the line. Sabitra Bhandari ‘Samba’, Rekha Paudel, and Sabita Rana Magar also had chances but could not convert them.

This marks the 13th final for Nepal in various international games, and they have been defeated in every single one. This was also the sixth encounter with Myanmar, and Nepal is yet to secure a victory against them. They played a 2-2 draw in Kathmandu on Sunday. Wednesday’s loss brings a bitter reminder of their last defeat in the final of the Hero Gold Cup in Bhubaneswar, India, in 2019, where Myanmar emerged victorious.