India Beat Bangladesh To Win Sixth SAFF Women’s Title

India’s women’s football team, known as the Blue Tigresses, made history by defeating Bangladesh by 3-1 in the final of the SAFF Women’s Championship 2026, securing their record sixth title. The championship match took place at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Margao, Goa, on Saturday.

This victory marked India’s first SAFF Women’s Championship win since 2019, bringing an end to Bangladesh’s successful run as defending champions, having won the previous two editions in 2022 and 2024.

India delivered an impressive performance throughout the tournament, remaining unbeaten, scoring 18 goals, and conceding only once. In the final, Pyari Xaxa opened the scoring for India in the 42nd minute with a shot that deflected off a Bangladesh defender and looped into the net.

Bangladesh responded quickly, with Ritu Porna Chakma scoring an equalizer during added time in the first half, sending both teams into the break tied at 1-1.

However, India regained control right after the restart. Sanfida Nongrum scored with a powerful header in the 46th minute after receiving a cross from Pyari Xaxa. This goal shifted the momentum in India’s favor, as the Blue Tigresses continued to dominate possession and create chances.

As Bangladesh pushed forward in search of another equalizer, India capitalized on defensive gaps. Lynda Kom sealed the victory in the 82nd minute after taking advantage of a defensive error, bringing the scoreline to 3-1.

The tournament featured several standout individual performances for India. Sanfida Nongrum was named the Most Valuable Player, while goalkeeper Panthoi Chanu Elangbam received the Best Goalkeeper award. Aveka Singh finished as the tournament’s top scorer with four goals.

The title victory was also emotional for veteran footballer Dangmei Grace, who played in her farewell international tournament after representing India in 95 matches.

Leaders across the country, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu, congratulated the team on their achievement and praised the players for inspiring young girls in India to pursue sports and football.