Preeti Rai sends Nepal to WAFF Women's Championship finals with dramatic victory

Preeti Rai's last-gasp strike secured Nepal's remarkable comeback victory against Lebanon and set up the final against Jordan in the WAFF Women's Championship in Saudi Arabia.

In a thrilling semi-final clash, Nepal found themselves trailing after an unfortunate own goal from Puja Rana in the 38th minute. Trailing at the break, Nepal began pressing on early in the second half. Their persistence paid off when Sabitra Bhandari capitalized on Rashmi Kumari Ghising's pass in the 76th minute to level the score with her ninth goal of the competition.

As the clock ticked down and the prospect of extra time loomed large, Preeti Rai emerged as the hero clinching the winning goal in the fifth and final minute of added time. Rai's decisive strike sealed Nepal's berth in the finals in dramatic fashion, sparking scenes of celebration among hundreds of Nepali fans at the stadium.

Nepal will now face Jordan in the title-decider on Thursday. Jordan secured their spot with a commanding 5-0 victory over Palestine in the other semi-final match.