Did India’s U17 Women's Team Just Make History with a 7-0 Win Over Nepal?
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Synopsis
India’s U17 women’s football team made headlines with a stunning 7-0 victory over Nepal in their SAFF U17 Women’s Championship opener. With impressive performances from players like Nira Chanu Longjam and Abhista Basnett, this match showcased the team's dominance and set a strong tone for the tournament ahead.
Key Takeaways
- India's U17 women’s team displayed impressive teamwork and skill.
- Strong performances from key players led to a decisive victory.
- The match highlighted the importance of set-pieces in football.
- India’s backline remained resilient throughout the game.
- The team started the tournament on a strong note, setting the tone for future matches.
Thimpu (Bhutan), Aug 20 (NationPress) India’s U17 women’s squad made a powerful statement in their SAFF U17 Women’s Championship 2025 opener, crushing Nepal with an impressive 7-0 victory at the historic Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu on Wednesday.
Braces from Nira Chanu Longjam (25’, 56’), Abhista Basnett (16’ 41’), and Anushka Kumari (37’, 62’), along with a goal from captain Julan Nongmaithem (45+1’), ensured a perfect start to India’s campaign. The Young Tigresses surged to a commanding 5-0 lead by halftime, leaving Nepal with no chance to recover in what was a lopsided contest from the beginning.
This year’s tournament follows a double round-robin format, making it essential for India to kick off strongly, which they did in spectacular fashion.
From the outset, India showcased their dominance. Their well-coordinated structure, a result of months of training since January, was apparent in every aspect of their play. The midfielders controlled the pace, delivering precise passes and slicing through Nepal’s defense with sharp distribution, while the forwards consistently found spaces to create chaos.
The defense, though initially tested, remained solid and resilient. Goalkeeper Munni delivered a commendable performance, maintaining a clean sheet and leading her defense confidently.
Set-pieces emerged as a crucial tool for India. The first breakthrough occurred in the 16th minute when a poor backpass led to a corner. Shveta Rani delivered a dangerous ball from the left, and Nepal's goalkeeper Jharna Dumrakoti fumbled under pressure. Basnett was quickest to respond, slotting it home from close range.
India doubled their lead in the 25th minute. Kumari provided a perfectly weighted pass for Nira Chanu, who skillfully powered a low shot past the diving Dumrakoti.
Kumari became the scorer in the 37th minute, sprinting onto a through ball and displaying great composure to beat the keeper, making it 3-0.
Just four minutes later, Basnett netted her second. A pass from Kumari intended for Chanu was deflected by Anshu BK, but Basnett seized the opportunity to extend the lead to 4-0 with a precise finish.
On the brink of halftime, India added their fifth. A goalmouth scramble from another corner saw Nongmaithem react quickly, putting the ball into the net and igniting celebrations from the bench.
Even with the match nearly in hand, India showed no signs of backing down in the second half. In the 56th minute, Nira Chanu found space and unleashed a powerful shot to complete her brace, extending the score to 6-0.
The seventh came in the 62nd minute, showcasing team synergy. Basnett set up Chanu at the edge of the box. As the goalkeeper rushed out, Chanu calmly laid it off to Kumari, who finished into an open net to secure a decisive 7-0 triumph.
Point of View
I believe this match was a clear demonstration of India's growing prowess in women's football. The U17 women’s team not only showcased their skill and teamwork but also set a high standard for future matches. This victory is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and coaching staff, and it reflects positively on the nation's commitment to developing women's sports.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the match?
India won decisively with a final score of 7-0 against Nepal.
Who scored goals for India?
Nira Chanu Longjam, Abhista Basnett, Anushka Kumari, and Julan Nongmaithem all contributed to the scoreline.
Where was the match held?
The match took place at the Changlimithang Stadium in Thimpu, Bhutan.
What format is the tournament following?
This year, the tournament is being played in a double round-robin format.
When was the match played?
The match was played on August 20, 2023.
