India Triumphs Over Bangladesh 3-0 in SAFF Women's Championship 2026

In a thrilling match at the SAFF Women's Championship 2026, India triumphed over Bangladesh with a 3-0 scoreline, marking their first victory against them in seven years. Pyari Xaxa, Lynda Kom Serto, and Malavika P scored to secure India's top position in Group B. With a perfect record, India is set to face Bhutan in the semi-finals. The match showcased India's dominance and renewed hope of reclaiming the championship title. Read on for a detailed breakdown of the match highlights and player performances.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 31, 2026, 23:32 IST

India Secures Top Position in Group B

On Sunday, India achieved a decisive 3-0 victory against Bangladesh at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Margao, Goa, ensuring their top position in Group B of the SAFF Women's Championship 2026.

This win marked the Blue Tigresses' first triumph over Bangladesh in seven years, having lost their last two encounters in the 2022 and 2024 tournaments. Pyari Xaxa initiated the scoring in the first half at the 36-minute mark, followed by second-half goals from Lynda Kom Serto (78' penalty) and Malavika P (90+1'), as reported in an official release.

With a flawless six points from two matches, including an earlier 11-0 victory over the Maldives, India will now face Bhutan in the semi-finals on June 3 at 20:00. Bangladesh, on the other hand, will compete against Nepal in the other semi-final at 16:00.

India Overcomes Early Challenge

The match commenced with both teams displaying high energy and determination. Bangladesh nearly caught India off guard in the second minute when a lapse from Shilky Devi Hemam allowed Anika Rania Siddiqui a chance, but India’s goalkeeper Panthoi Chanu Elangbam thwarted the attempt.

This early scare seemed to galvanize India, who gradually took control of the game with effective passing and strategic use of the wings. Their midfield orchestrated the play, consistently testing the Bangladesh defense with aerial balls.

India created several scoring opportunities before finally breaking the deadlock. In the 22nd minute, Sanfida Nongrum had a promising chance but rushed her shot, sending it wide despite having space to advance.

Pyari Xaxa Opens the Scoring

Pyari Xaxa redeemed herself in the 36th minute. A long ball from Shilky found its way to her after a poor clearance from Kohati Kisku. Pyari displayed composure, taking a moment before unleashing a powerful right-footed shot into the bottom corner, beyond goalkeeper Mile Akter.

This goal boosted India's confidence, allowing them to manage the remainder of the first half comfortably with a 1-0 lead.

Second Half Sees India Extend Lead

India resumed the match with the same attacking vigor after halftime, nearly doubling their lead in the 51st minute when a dangerous cross was spilled by Bangladesh's goalkeeper Mile Akter, but Pyari was denied by a last-ditch defensive effort.

Substitute Lynda Kom Serto made an immediate impact after coming on in the 66th minute, racing through on goal just two minutes later, but her powerful shot was saved by Mile.

Lynda Converts Penalty

India finally secured a more comfortable lead in the 78th minute. Sanfida, who had been pivotal throughout the match, found Malavika near the penalty area. As Malavika entered the box, she was fouled by Mst Surma Jannat, prompting the referee to award a penalty. Lynda confidently converted the spot-kick into the bottom-right corner.

Malavika Seals the Victory

The hosts capped off a remarkable performance in stoppage time. A brilliant cross from Sangita Basfore was expertly controlled by Malavika, who calmly finished from close range in the 91st minute.

This goal marked a fitting conclusion to a dominant display as India advanced to the semi-finals, filled with momentum and confidence to reclaim the SAFF Women's Championship title after seven years.

India's Line-up

India: Panthoi Chanu Elangbam (GK, C), Purnima Kumari (Juli Kishan 90'), Nirmala Devi Phanjoubam, Shilky Devi Hemam, Sangita Basfore, Soumya Guguloth (Priyangka Devi Naorem 46'), Sanfida Nongrum, Astam Oraon, Pyari Xaxa (Malavika P 66'), Jasoda Munda (Karishma Shirvoikar 83'), Aveka Singh (Lynda Kom Serto 66').