India Clinches SAFF Women's Championship Title with 3-1 Victory Over Bangladesh

In a thrilling final, India claimed the SAFF Women's Championship title by defeating Bangladesh 3-1, marking their first win in seven years. The match showcased a remarkable performance from Sanfida Nongrum, who played a crucial role in securing the victory. As the team celebrated, they also bid farewell to legendary player Dangmei Grace, who ended her international career on a high note. This victory not only highlights India's dominance in South Asian women's football but also caps off an impressive tournament run, where they won all their matches.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 6, 2026, 23:06 IST

India Triumphs in SAFF Women's Championship Final

India secured the SAFF Women's Championship title for the first time in seven years, defeating the reigning champions Bangladesh 3-1 in a thrilling final held at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Goa on Saturday. Pyari Xaxa opened the scoring for India in the 42nd minute, but Ritu Porna Chakma equalized for Bangladesh just before halftime. Sanfida Nongrum quickly restored India's lead just 40 seconds into the second half, and substitute Lynda Kom Serto sealed the win in the 82nd minute, marking India's sixth championship title.

Celebrations and Farewell

The significance of this victory was palpable among the Indian players. Sanfida Nongrum, who played a pivotal role throughout the tournament, scoring in both the semi-final and final, celebrated with teammate Dangmei Grace, who announced her retirement after the match. The team rejoiced as India reclaimed its position at the top of South Asian women's football for the first time since 2019.

A Legendary Farewell

Dangmei Grace, a stalwart of Indian women's football, concluded her international career on a high note, having represented the nation 95 times since her debut in 2013 and winning her third SAFF title. This victory capped off an impressive campaign for India, who won all four matches, scoring 18 goals and conceding only one, while thwarting Bangladesh's bid for a historic third consecutive title.

First Half Drama

The final showcased the intensity expected from a clash between the region's top teams. Bangladesh, the defending champions, faced an India side eager to reclaim the title. Manisha Kalyan made her first start of the tournament, and India dominated possession early on, creating several scoring opportunities.

Sanfida Nongrum was the first to threaten, attempting a shot from a challenging angle. India nearly scored in the 16th minute when a long ball from Nirmala Devi Phanjoubam caused confusion in the Bangladesh defense, but Astam Oraon couldn't capitalize.

Bangladesh responded with Ritu Porna Chakma nearly scoring from a corner kick that sailed just over the bar. The pressure continued as Aveka Singh headed narrowly wide from a Nirmala cross, and Mile Akter made a fantastic save against Manisha Kalyan's powerful half-volley in the 38th minute.

Second Half Dominance

The breakthrough came three minutes before halftime when Pyari Xaxa's shot deflected off Surovi Akter and into the net, giving India a 1-0 lead. However, Bangladesh equalized deep into stoppage time with Ritu Porna Chakma's low shot into the far corner, leveling the score at 1-1 as the teams headed into the break.

The second half was dominated by India. Just seconds after the restart, Pyari Xaxa assisted Sanfida Nongrum, who scored with a powerful header to regain the lead. India maintained control, with Bangladesh struggling to find their rhythm.

India extended their lead in the 82nd minute when Lynda Kom Serto capitalized on a defensive error, slotting the ball past Mile Akter to secure a 3-1 victory.

Post-Match Honors

This victory marked a memorable tournament for India. Aveka Singh emerged as the top scorer with four goals, while Sanfida Nongrum was awarded the Most Valuable Player, and Panthoi Chanu Elangbam was recognized as the Best Goalkeeper. Nepal received the Fair Play award.

Team Line-up

India: Panthoi Chanu Elangbam (GK), Nirmala Devi Phanjoubam, Shilky Devi Hemam, Juli Kishan, Sangita Basfore (C) (Soumya Guguloth 89'), Sanfida Nongrum, Astam Oraon, Pyari Xaxa (Grace Dangmei 86'), Manisha Kalyan (Lynda Kom Serto 71'), Jasoda Munda, Aveka Singh (Malavika 46').