Nepal have stormed into a dominant 4-0 lead over Sri Lanka at halftime in their AFC Asian cup Women’s qualifiers match at Bunyodkor stadium, thanks to a scintillating first-half hat-trick from star striker Sabitra Bhandari.

Coach Patrick introduced some fresh changes in the starting lineup, including Preeti Rai in midfield, while Sabitra Bhandari and Rashmi Ghising led the attacking line. Sri Lanka, meanwhile, set up in a defensive 5-4-1 formation, looking to contain the Nepali attack—but the tactic unraveled early.

Nepal drew first blood in the 7th minute as Anita Basnet’s curling corner was expertly headed home by Gita Rana, giving the home side a 1-0 lead.

Nepal kept up the pressure with wave after wave of attacks. In the 20th minute, a slick move inside the box saw Anita Basnet feed Sabitra Bhandari, who made no mistake with a calm finish to make it 2-0.

Despite Sri Lanka’s deep defensive line, Nepal found space through set-pieces and long shots. At 25 minutes, Renuka Nagarkoti got on the end of another Basnet corner, but her effort was blocked. Preeti Rai then tried her luck twice from distance in the 26th and 30th minutes, both times forcing saves from the Sri Lankan goalkeeper.

Nepal came inches close again in the 31st minute when Sabita Rana Magar’s cross struck the woodwork just before the drinks break. A potential third goal in the 36th minute was ruled out after Sabitra’s free kick found the net but was disallowed for an infringement.

The relentless pressure finally paid off again in the 42nd minute as Sabitra lifted the ball over the Sri Lankan goalkeeper following a smart pass from Rashmi Ghising. Just two minutes later, she completed her hat-trick with a fine finish off a cross from Sabita Rana Magar, sealing a brilliant first-half display.

At halftime, Nepal lead Sri Lanka 4-0 and look firmly in control of the match.