India Clinch Record Sixth SAFF Women’s Championship After 3-1 Win

India’s women’s national football team ended a seven-year wait for silverware with a convincing 3-1 victory over Bangladesh in the SAFF Women’s Championship 2026 final, held at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Margao, Goa.

Pyari Xaxa opened the scoring just before halftime, finding the net in the 42nd minute. India carried that momentum into the second half, with Sanfida Nongrum doubling the lead moments after the restart in the 46th minute. Although Bangladesh’s Ritu Porna Chakma pulled one back late in the first half, Lynda Kom sealed the win with a decisive goal in the 82nd minute.

India remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, which took place in Goa from May 25 to June 6, showcasing consistent dominance on their way to lifting a record sixth SAFF Women’s Championship title.

The triumph drew widespread praise from across the country, including congratulatory messages from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu, who hailed the team’s achievement as an inspiration for young girls and aspiring athletes nationwide.