Champions Again: India Beat Bangladesh to Lift Sixth SAFF Women’s Title

India scripted a memorable return to the top of South Asian women’s football, defeating Bangladesh 3-1 in the SAFF Women’s Championship final in Margao on Saturday to clinch the title for a record-extending sixth time .

The triumph ended a seven-year wait for the Indian team, which had failed to lift the trophy in the previous two editions despite dominating the competition for years. Having watched Bangladesh win back-to-back titles in 2022 and 2024, India entered the tournament determined to reclaim their place at the summit and delivered in emphatic fashion.

The final lived up to expectations as the region’s two strongest teams battled for supremacy. India enjoyed greater possession from the outset and created several promising opportunities. Their persistence finally paid off in the 42nd minute when Pyari Xaxa weaved her way inside the penalty area and struck a shot that took a deflection before looping over goalkeeper Mile Akter and into the net.

Bangladesh, however, responded immediately. Deep into first-half stoppage time, Ritu Porna Chakma found space on the left and fired a low shot into the far corner, handing India their first goal conceded in the entire tournament .

The setback lasted only moments. Within seconds of the restart, Pyari turned provider, delivering a precise cross that was met by Sanfida Nongrum , whose powerful header restored India’s lead. The goal shifted momentum firmly in favour of the hosts, who looked increasingly confident as the match progressed.

Bangladesh searched for another equaliser but struggled to break through India’s disciplined defence. The contest was finally put beyond doubt in the 82nd minute when substitute Lynda Kom Serto capitalised on a defensive error and calmly slotted home India’s third goal.

The victory capped a flawless campaign for the hosts, who won every match, scored 18 goals and conceded only once. Individual honours also followed, with Aveka Singh finishing as the tournament’s top scorer, Sanfida Nongrum being named Most Valuable Player , and Panthoi Chanu Elangbam receiving the Best Goalkeeper award .

For India, the title represents more than just another trophy. It marks a powerful return to regional dominance and underlines the team's resurgence as the leading force in South Asian women’s football.