India Secures Victory in SAFF U-20 Women's Championship Opener

India, 8 January 2026 — The Indian U-20 women's football team commenced their campaign in the SAFF U-20 Women's Championship with a resounding victory against Bangladesh on Saturday, January 7, 2026, in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Displaying a dominant performance, the Indian team emerged victorious with a 3-1 scoreline, showcasing their prowess and determination on the field.

The match, held at the Bir Shreshtha Shaheed Shipahi Mostafa Kamal Stadium, saw India taking an early lead through striker Anju Tamang, who scored within the first 15 minutes of the game. Her goal set the tone for the rest of the match, putting Bangladesh on the defensive from the start.

India maintained their momentum as midfielder Sunita Munda doubled the lead with a powerful strike from outside the box just before halftime. Bangladesh attempted a comeback with a goal in the 60th minute, but India's defense held strong, preventing any further breakthroughs.

The final blow to Bangladesh came in the 75th minute when substitute forward Neha Chauhan scored the third goal for India, sealing the victory. This win places India in a strong position in the group stage of the tournament, setting a positive tone for their upcoming matches.

The SAFF U-20 Women's Championship is a significant platform for young South Asian talent to showcase their skills and gain international experience. India's performance in this opening match reflects the growing strength and depth of women's football in the country.

The Indian team's next match is scheduled against Nepal, where they will aim to continue their winning streak and secure a spot in the semifinals. The tournament is scheduled to run until January 20, 2026, with participating teams vying for the prestigious title.