India have regained the SAFF Women’s Championship crown after beating Bangladesh 3-1 in the final held on Saturday at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Goa.
The result ended Bangladesh’s hopes of winning the regional title for a third straight time, as India lifted their record sixth championship with a strong second-half performance.
The final began at a fast pace, with both sides creating early scoring chances but failing to convert. India eventually took the lead in the 42nd minute when Pyari Xaxa capitalised on a defensive mistake.
Her shot took a deflection off a Bangladeshi defender and looped over the goalkeeper to break the deadlock.
Bangladesh responded just before half-time. Ritu Porna Chakma finished off a well-worked move, cutting in from the left and firing a low shot into the net after receiving a pass from Tohura Khatun.
The goal marked the first time India conceded in the tournament.
The momentum shifted again early in the second half. Within a minute of the restart, Sanfida Nongrum rose above the Bangladesh defence to head in a cross from Xaxa, restoring India’s lead.
Bangladesh attempted to fight back and made changes in the 60th minute, bringing on Monika Chakma in search of an equaliser.
They also appealed for a penalty after Shamsunnahar Senior went down inside the box, but the referee did not award a spot-kick.
As Bangladesh pushed forward in search of another equaliser, gaps began to appear in defence. India took advantage in the 83rd minute when Linda Kom Serto scored the third goal to seal the win.
The victory secured India another SAFF Women’s Championship title, while Bangladesh had to settle for a runners-up finish despite a strong campaign.
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