Indian U17 Women's Team Dominates Bhutan in SAFF U19 Championship

The Indian U17 women's football team delivered an outstanding performance, defeating Bhutan 8-0 in the SAFF U19 Women's Championship 2026. With a hat-trick from Pearl Fernandes and two goals from Pritika Barman, India secured a spot in the finals against Bangladesh. The match showcased India's dominance, with early goals setting the tone for the game. As they prepare for the AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup in China 2026, the Young Tigresses are proving to be a formidable force in women's football.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 4, 2026, 17:35 IST

India's Impressive Victory

In a commanding performance, the Indian U17 women's football team triumphed over Bhutan with a score of 8-0 during their final round-robin match of the SAFF U19 Women's Championship 2026, held at Pokhara Rangasala Stadium on Wednesday, as reported by the All India Football Federation (AIFF). Pearl Fernandes showcased her skills by scoring a hat-trick in the first half, netting goals at the 16th, 39th, and 41st minutes. Pritika Barman also contributed significantly with two goals, one in each half, at the 25th and 90th minutes. Additionally, Alisha Lyngdoh (6'), Abhista Basnett (10'), and Divyani Linda (17') each added to the scoreline.

India Advances to the Final

Following Bangladesh's 4-0 victory over Nepal in the other match on Wednesday, the Young Tigresses secured their place in the SAFF U19 Women's Championship 2026 final. India finished the group stage in second place with six points from three matches, trailing Bangladesh by three points. Nepal ended up third with three points, while Bhutan remained at the bottom without any points. The final match will see India face Bangladesh on Saturday, February 7. The U17 women's team is participating in this higher age-group tournament as part of their preparation for the AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup in China 2026.

First Half Highlights

From the start, Bhutan struggled against the Young Tigresses, coached by Pamela Conti. Alisha Lyngdoh opened the scoring in the sixth minute with a precise half-volley from outside the box, just out of reach of Bhutan's goalkeeper Sonam Choden. Abhista Basnett quickly doubled the lead, tapping in a cross from Pritika, who had made a run down the right flank.

Pearl Fernandes scored India's third goal after receiving a well-timed through-pass from Thandamoni Baskey, easily beating the Bhutan goalkeeper. Divyani Linda added the fourth goal shortly after, finishing from a right-side surge.

India's goalkeeper Munni had minimal involvement, aside from a moment of concern when a back pass from Alena Devi Sarangthem nearly resulted in a goal. However, Munni recovered in time to avert disaster. Pritika scored the fifth goal in the 25th minute, followed by Pearl's second goal after a low cross from Pritika in the 38th minute. Pearl completed her hat-trick just before halftime, tapping in after a set-piece created chaos in the Bhutan defense.

Second Half Developments

At halftime, Coach Conti made several substitutions, bringing on midfielder Shveta Rani for center-back Elizabed Lakra, along with forward Valaina Fernandes, right-back Binita Horo, and midfielder Redima Devi Chingkhamayum, while also giving a debut to center-back Joyshini Chanu Huidrom.

With renewed energy, India started the second half aggressively, creating chances in Bhutan's half. Redima struck the post early in the half, and Pritika hit the crossbar shortly after. Despite several opportunities, including a one-on-one with the goalkeeper, Pritika missed a couple of chances before finally scoring her second goal in the 90th minute, assisted by Redima, as she calmly slotted the ball into an empty net.

Pritika's outstanding performance earned her the Player of the Match title.