How Did India Become SAFF U17 Women’s Champions Despite Losing to Bangladesh?
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Synopsis
In an exhilarating finale to the SAFF U17 Women’s Championship 2025, India emerged champions despite a nail-biting 3-4 loss to Bangladesh. Unravel the thrilling moments of this match and how the Young Tigresses clinched their title with a remarkable performance throughout the tournament.
Key Takeaways
- India crowned champions despite a loss to Bangladesh.
- Purnima Marma scored the first goal for Bangladesh in the opening minute.
- Anushka Kumari equalised for India shortly after.
- India finished the tournament with a record of five wins and one loss.
- The team is preparing for the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers.
Thimpu, Aug 31 (NationPress) In a thrilling conclusion to the SAFF U17 Women’s Championship 2025, India faced their sole defeat, falling 3-4 to Bangladesh at the Changlimithang Stadium in Bhutan on Sunday. However, the Young Tigresses were celebrated as champions, having secured an unbeatable position on the points table with a match still left to play.
The Young Tigresses wrapped up the tournament with an impressive record of five victories and just one defeat.
Purnima Marma set the tone for Bangladesh by scoring within the first minute. India’s Anushka Kumari quickly equalised in the ninth minute, but Bangladesh regained the lead in the 34th minute through Alpi Akter and then extended it in the 48th minute when Sauravi Prity found the net.
India responded in the 65th minute with a goal from Pritika Barman, and in a dramatic finish, skipper Julan equalised in the 89th minute. However, Prity struck again during injury time, sealing the win for Bangladesh.
Bangladesh's early goal from Purnima Marma marked the first time the Young Tigresses had conceded in the entire tournament, breaking their clean sheet streak. As the head coach noted, “It's not the end of the world.”
India's swift response came from Anushka Kumari, who navigated past defenders to level the scores in the ninth minute.
Bangladesh regained the lead in the 34th minute amidst confusion in the Indian penalty area, with Alpi Akter scoring from close range.
Despite India's numerous chances to equalise, including a near miss from Anushka and a powerful free-kick that struck the post, they struggled to find the back of the net.
In the second half, Bangladesh's Sauravi Prity extended their lead to 3-1 early on.
India kept pressing, and Pritika finally reduced the deficit in the 65th minute. Although they created further opportunities, the Bangladesh defence held strong.
India's equaliser came in the 89th minute thanks to Julan, but heartbreak struck when Prity scored the decisive goal in added time.
The team is now set to head to Bengaluru to prepare for the upcoming AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers in October, to be held in Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic.
Point of View
I view India's performance in the SAFF U17 Women’s Championship as a testament to their growth and potential in women's football. Despite the final match setback, the Young Tigresses have shown remarkable skill and determination throughout the tournament, earning their champion title. This journey reflects their commitment and lays a strong foundation for future competitions, embodying the spirit of resilience.
NationPress
31/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score between India and Bangladesh?
India lost to Bangladesh with a final score of 3-4.
How did India secure the championship title?
India secured the championship title by accumulating an unassailable lead in the points table before the final match.
Who were the standout players for India?
Anushka Kumari and Pritika Barman were standout players, contributing crucial goals during the tournament.
What is next for the Young Tigresses?
The Young Tigresses will travel to Bengaluru to prepare for the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers in October.
When and where did the final match take place?
The final match took place on August 31, 2025, at Changlimithang Stadium in Bhutan.
