India, who edged Nepal 2-1 in their first match, dominated the whole show against the minnows but had to wait until 44th minute to go ahead.

It was captain Baichung Bhutia, who missed an 89th minute penalty against Nepal, found the target when he shrugged off his marker to nod home a headed-pass by Manju. But the star Indian striker was fortunate to see his weak effort cross the line as goalkeeper Jigme Singye fumbled twice to lose the ball from his grip.

India added their second goal six minutes after break when Gawli, completely unmarked by the Bhutan backline, leaped high in the air to put a drop-header into the back of the net after meeting a right-flank corner by Alvito.

The Bhutan defence was in disarray against their mighty rivals' repeated raids but gave in once again when substitute Abdul Hakkim headed in a chip by Ajayan in the 66th minute.

Bhutan, who also suffered an identical 3-0 defeat to holders Bangladesh, crashed out of the meet after two losses.