India Set to Kick Off SAFF Women's Championship 2026 Against Maldives

India's SAFF Women's Championship Journey Begins

Margao (Goa) [India], May 24: The Indian women's football team is set to launch their SAFF Women's Championship 2026 Group B journey against the Maldives at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Margao, Goa, on Monday. The team aims to reclaim the title they last secured in 2019.

Fans can watch the match live on FanCode, and entry to the stadium is complimentary.

As per a statement from AIFF Media, this match will be the first time the Blue Tigresses compete in Goa.

Ranked 69th globally, India stands as the highest-ranked team in the tournament, entering the match as strong favorites against the Maldives, who are ranked 167th.

The Blue Tigresses boast a remarkable record against the Maldives, having won seven out of their eight encounters, with one match ending in a draw. India has netted 68 goals in these matches while conceding only once.

After finishing third in the FIFA Series 2026 in Kenya, Crispin Chettri's squad is eager to make a significant impact as they shift their focus back to regional dominance.

Chettri noted the increasing competitiveness of the tournament and emphasized the need for early preparations for future continental aspirations.

“The SAFF Championship is becoming more challenging each year. As hosts, expectations from fans will be high. Our squad is a blend of experienced and young talent. With the Indian Women’s League just concluded, our players are fit and ready,” Chettri mentioned during the pre-tournament press conference on Sunday.

“Our ultimate goal is to qualify for the next Asian Cup, so our preparations begin now,” he added.

India's squad showcases talent across the board. In defense, young players Astam Oraon and Nirmala Devi Phanjoubam, who was recently named IWL's Best Defender, are anticipated to play crucial roles in maintaining a solid defense. In midfield, Aveka Singh, who scored her inaugural goal for India last month, alongside the seasoned Sangita Basfore, will aim to dictate the match's pace.

On the offensive front, India has a wealth of experience with players like Grace Dangmei, Pyari Xaxa, and Soumya Guguloth. Manisha Kalyan, currently playing in Peru, is expected to join the squad after the FIFA International Match Window opens on June 1.

Grace Dangmei, who attended the press conference with Chettri, expressed that the team has gained valuable insights from their experience at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup in March and intends to apply these lessons in the SAFF Women’s Championship.

“Our time in Australia was educational. We recognized areas for improvement, and we hope to implement those lessons in this tournament. We aim to go all the way,” she stated.

Maldives coach Mohamed Sobah acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by the hosts.

“We hold great respect for India. We anticipate their pressing style, so we will strategize to counter their attacks effectively,” he remarked.

Bangladesh completes Group B, while Group A consists of Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals scheduled for June 3, with the final set for June 6.