Indian Football Team Secures Victory in SAFF Championship Opener

India, 14 December 2025 — The Indian national football team commenced their SAFF Championship campaign with a commanding 3-1 victory over Nepal on Tuesday evening in Kolkata. The match, held at the Salt Lake Stadium, saw India dominate from the outset, showcasing a strong attacking performance. Sunil Chhetri, the team's veteran captain, opened the scoring with a precise header in the 22nd minute, setting the tone for the home side. The team's lead was doubled shortly after halftime, with midfielder Anirudh Thapa netting a well-placed shot from outside the box. Despite a brief fightback from Nepal, which saw them score through Rohit Chand in the 65th minute, India sealed the match with a late goal from substitute Liston Colaco. This victory is crucial for India as they aim to reclaim the SAFF Championship title, having last won the tournament in 2021. Coach Igor Stimac expressed satisfaction with the team's performance, particularly praising the defensive solidity and attacking flair displayed. India's next fixture in the tournament is set against Bangladesh on Friday, where they will look to maintain their momentum. The SAFF Championship is a key competition for the Indian team, providing an opportunity to assess their strengths ahead of upcoming international fixtures.