Nepal U23 defeated Maldives U23 2-1 in their final 2019 SAFF Games group stage match on December 7th, a result that confirmed the host nation's place in the final. The win at the Dasarath Rangasala Stadium ensured Nepal finished top of the group with an unbeaten record. Nepal started strongly and took the lead, but the Maldives fought back bravely to level the score before halftime. The second half was a tense affair, with both teams aware a win was needed for different reasons. Nepal found the breakthrough with about twenty minutes remaining, scoring what proved to be the winner. The Maldives pushed for another equalizer but could not find one, ending their tournament. The victory sparked celebrations among the home fans, as Nepal advanced to the gold medal match. The Nepal coach praised his team's composure and ability to grind out a result, while the Maldivian manager commended his players' effort in a difficult group.