Pokhara (Nepal), Jan 31 (NationPress) India kicked off their SAFF U19 Women’s Championship 2026 journey with a 1-0 victory against the home team, Nepal, at the Pokhara Rangasala Stadium on Saturday.

The game’s lone goal came from Pearl Fernandes in the 49th minute, just after the second half began.

Even though this tournament features U19 teams, India has brought an U17 squad in preparation for the upcoming AFC U17 Asian Cup later this year. Head coach Pamela Conti, who took charge earlier this month, saw her first match in this role, offering junior debuts to Redima Devi Chingkhamayum and Alva Devi Senjam, both of whom were in the starting lineup.

Despite the challenging pitch conditions, India aimed to seize an early lead, attempting to utilize aerial diagonals to break through Nepal’s defense. Captain Julan Nongmaithem delivered a promising through ball to Redima, who narrowly missed controlling it.

Nepal had a scoring opportunity in the 10th minute when Barsha Oli set Sahara Limbu up inside the Indian box, but Elizabed Lakra skillfully shielded her, enabling goalkeeper Munni to collect the ball without issue.

The first half saw both teams engaged in a midfield contest, with India opting for aerial play. This strategy nearly paid off around the half-hour mark when Alva created a dangerous crossing position, but no one could connect with the ball.

The second half ignited quickly, as India pushed forward and took the lead just four minutes in. Substitute Pritika maneuvered past Maya Maske from Nepal, entered the box, and made a cut-back. Although the Nepal goalkeeper was ready, she inadvertently deflected the ball right into the path of Pearl, who scored from close range.

This goal energized the Nepal team momentarily as they sought to re-enter the game. Nevertheless, their attempts to breach the Indian defense were repeatedly repelled by the Young Tigresses.

Nepal's best opportunity came at the hour mark when captain Sushila KC's corner fell perfectly for Srijana Baduwal in the Indian penalty area, but her volley hit the side-netting.

In the final minutes, India regained control, staving off Nepal's attempts to equalize. Pritika almost sealed the match in the 89th minute after chasing a long clearance from Elizabed. However, her chip attempt went wide.

India had another chance during injury time when Elizabed set up substitute Anwita Raghuraman, who passed to Julan. The captain faked a shot before trying to find Alva, but the Nepal defense thwarted the move.

Earlier in the day, Bangladesh trounced Bhutan 12-0, placing India second on the table, closely trailing Bangladesh on goal difference. India is set to face Bangladesh in their next match on February 2 at 11:45 IST. The top two teams will advance to the final.