Margao (Goa): The Indian women’s football team scripted a memorable comeback in South Asian football by defeating Bangladesh 3-1 in the final of the 2026 SAFF Women’s Championship, reclaiming the regional crown after a gap of seven years. The victory, achieved at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Margao, earned India a record-extending sixth SAFF Women’s Championship title.
Entering the tournament as one of the favorites, India displayed consistency and attacking football throughout the competition. In the final against defending champions Bangladesh, the Blue Tigresses produced a dominant performance to avenge previous disappointments and re-establish their supremacy in South Asian women’s football.
Prime Minister @narendramodi congratulates Indian Women’s Football Team on winning the SAFF Women’s Championship 2026 https://t.co/WsvbiCmGuI
— PIB India (@PIB_India) June 7, 2026
India opened the scoring through Pyari Xaxa before Sanfida Nongrum doubled the advantage. Bangladesh attempted a comeback with a goal of their own, but Lynda Kom Serto sealed the contest with India’s third goal, ensuring a comfortable 3-1 victory and sparking celebrations among players and supporters.
The triumph is particularly significant as it marks India’s first SAFF Women’s Championship title since 2019. The team had endured a title drought while Bangladesh emerged as the new regional powerhouse by winning the last two editions. By lifting the trophy in Goa, India ended Bangladesh’s reign and reaffirmed its status as the most successful team in the tournament’s history.
Under the guidance of coach Crispin Chettri, India showcased a blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talents. Players such as Sangita, Pyari Xaxa, Grace Dangmei, Panthoi Chanu, and others played crucial roles throughout the championship, helping the team overcome strong challenges from Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and other South Asian rivals.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the team on their achievement, stating that their success would inspire more young girls across the country to take up football and pursue sports at the highest level.
Congratulations to the Indian Women’s Football Team on winning the SAFF Women’s Championship 2026. They have played excellently through the tournament. This will encourage more youngsters to play football in the coming times. Best wishes to the team for their future endeavours. pic.twitter.com/U18avWmpP6
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 7, 2026
The victory is expected to provide a major boost to women’s football in India, which has witnessed growing investment and support in recent years. With the SAFF title back in Indian hands, attention will now turn to strengthening the national team for upcoming continental and international competitions.
For Indian football fans, the triumph represents more than just another trophy—it is a statement that the Blue Tigresses are once again the queens of South Asian football.
