India Overpowers Bangladesh 3–1 to Reclaim SAFF Women’s Championship Title
GOA, India — India returned to the top of South Asian women’s football by beating Bangladesh 3–1 in the final of the 8th SAFF Women’s Championship on Saturday. Playing under the lights at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Margao, Goa, the Blue Tigresses scored efficiently to win their sixth regional title, ending a seven-year drought. The win is India’s first SAFF trophy since 2019 and restores their regional lead. **Second-Half Surge Decides the Title** The first half was tense and fast, with both teams scoring once. After the break, India's better tactics and fitness made the difference. India’s pressure paid off when Sunfida Nongrum scored to give India the lead. Soon after, Lynda Kom Serto added another goal, taking advantage of a Bangladesh mistake, delighting the home fans. Bangladesh could not score again, stopped by India’s strong defence.  **Denial of a Dynasty** The loss is tough for Bangladesh. They are two-time champions and were hoping for a third straight title, but India’s sharp play stopped their streak. “This wasn’t just a win; it was a statement. We wanted to prove that the throne still belongs to India.” Saturday’s 3–1 win is like the 2016 final, when India also beat Bangladesh. It also matches India’s last SAFF win seven years ago over Nepal. By beating Bangladesh, India has restarted this rivalry.
