Bangladesh responded impressively just before the interval. In first-half stoppage time, Anika helped initiate a promising attack before Tahura threaded a precise pass into the path of Ritu Porna. Cutting in from the left flank, Ritu Porna entered the penalty area and calmly guided a diagonal shot beyond the Indian goalkeeper to level the score at 1–1.

The equaliser arrived at the perfect moment for Bangladesh and ensured the teams went into the break on level terms. It was also Ritu Porna’s second goal in consecutive matches after finding the net against Nepal in the semifinal.

However, Bangladesh’s hopes suffered an immediate setback after the restart. India regained the lead just 48 seconds into the second half. Pyari Xaxa, who had played a key role in the opening goal, delivered a dangerous cross into the penalty area, where Sanfida rose highest to head the ball into the net and make it 2–1.