India Kicks Off SAFF Women's Championship 2026 Against Maldives
India Begins SAFF Women's Championship Journey
On Monday, India will launch their Group B campaign in the SAFF Women's Championship 2026 against the Maldives at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium located in Margao, Goa. The team aims to reclaim the title they last secured in 2019. Fans can enjoy the match live on FanCode, and entry to the stadium is free. This match will also mark the Blue Tigresses' first appearance in Goa, as stated in a press release from AIFF Media.
India's Strong Position in the Tournament
Ranked 69th globally, India enters the tournament as the highest-ranked team, making them strong contenders against the Maldives, who sit at 167th. Historically, India has dominated their encounters with the Maldives, winning seven out of eight matches and drawing once, scoring a total of 68 goals while conceding only once.
Coach's Insights on the Competition
Crispin Chettri, the head coach, aims to make a significant impact following their third-place finish in the FIFA Series 2026 in Kenya. He noted that the competition has intensified over the years and emphasized the need for early preparations for future continental aspirations. Chettri remarked, "The SAFF Championship is becoming increasingly competitive. As hosts, expectations from fans will be high. Our squad is a blend of experienced and young players, and with the Indian Women's League recently concluded, the players are fit and ready." He added, "Our ultimate goal is to qualify for the next Asian Cup, and preparations begin now."
Key Players to Keep an Eye On
India boasts talent across the field. In defense, young players Astam Oraon and Nirmala Devi Phanjoubam, who was recently named IWL's Best Defender, are crucial for maintaining a solid backline. Midfielders Aveka Singh, who netted her first goal for India last month, and seasoned player Sangita Basfore will be pivotal in controlling the game's pace. The attacking front features experienced players like Grace Dangmei, Pyari Xaxa, and Soumya Guguloth. Notably, Manisha Kalyan, who plays in Peru, has yet to join the squad as the FIFA International Match Window starts on June 1.
Perspectives from the Team
Grace Dangmei, who attended the press conference alongside Chettri, expressed that the team has gained valuable insights from their experience in the AFC Women's Asian Cup held in March. She stated, "It was a learning experience for us in Australia. We understood where we need to improve, and hopefully, we can implement those learnings in this tournament. We will strive to go all the way."
Maldives coach Mohamed Sobah acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by India, saying, "We have immense respect for India. We know they will apply pressure, so we will aim to play strategically and disrupt their attacks."
Understanding the Tournament Structure
In Group B, Bangladesh is the third team, while Group A features 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 match set for June 6.