“India U17 Women lift SAFF Championship title despite heartache against Bangladesh”

India U17 Women crowned SAFF champions despite dramatic loss to Bangladesh.

India’s U17 Women’s team clinched the SAFF U17 Women’s Championship 2025 title on Sunday, even though they suffered a thrilling 4-3 defeat to Bangladesh in their final round-robin match at Bhutan’s Changlimithang Stadium. The loss did not affect their tournament triumph, as India had already secured five wins from six matches, topping the points table.

The match began dramatically, with Purnima Marma giving Bangladesh an early lead within 30 seconds, ending India’s tournament-long clean sheet streak. Anushka Kumari quickly equalised in the ninth minute, displaying the resilience that defined India’s campaign. Bangladesh pulled ahead again with goals from Alpi Akter (34’) and Sauravi Prity (48’), but India fought back through Pritika Barman (65’) and captain Julan (89’) to level the score at 3-3. In stoppage time, Prity scored again, giving Bangladesh a 4-3 win.

Despite the loss, India celebrated their championship victory, with emotions running high among the players. Individual accolades highlighted the team’s success: Anushka Kumari finished as the tournament’s Top Goalscorer with eight goals, while Abhista Basnett was named Most Valuable Player with four goals and three assists.

India had already demonstrated their championship credentials with a 2-0 win over Bangladesh on August 22 and will now return to Bengaluru to prepare for the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers in October in Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic. The SAFF campaign showcased India’s talent, grit, and determination, setting the stage for their next continental challenge.