Goa, June 4: Host nation India clinched a spot in the final of the SAFF Women’s Championship 2026 by defeating Bhutan 1-0 in the semifinals on Wednesday. India will face defending champions Bangladesh in the final on June 6.
Head coach Crispin Chhetri made two changes to the lineup that previously defeated Bangladesh 3-0 in the group stage. Karishma Shirvoikar and Priyanka Devi Norem were included in the starting eleven, replacing Payari Jaksaa and Sangeeta Basfore.
The semifinal, held at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, saw Sanfida Nongrum score the only goal in the 58th minute. India struggled to find their rhythm in the early moments of the match, while Bhutan adopted a defensive strategy, playing deep in their half and allowing India to apply pressure.
The first scoring opportunity came in the third minute when a ball from the back caused chaos in Bhutan’s defense. Goalkeeper Sangeeta Mongar failed to secure the ball properly. Karishma quickly advanced to capitalize on the chance, but her first touch was slightly heavy, allowing Namgyal Dema to clear the danger.
India maintained possession but lacked precision in the final third. In the 11th minute, Karishma found space on the left and passed to Soumya Guguloth, whose initial attempt was weak and easily saved by Sangeeta.
Four minutes later, Bhutan showed a glimpse of their attacking potential. A throw-in from Jamyang was not cleared properly, and the ball fell to captain Pema Shering in the box. However, Indian captain and goalkeeper Panthoi Chanu Elangbam easily thwarted the attempt.
As the half progressed, India began to find their rhythm and started to control the game through midfield. They ended the first half with 71% possession, but wingers Soumya Guguloth and midfielder Sanfida Nongrum failed to capitalize on good opportunities.
After the break, Chhetri made three attacking substitutions. Manisha Kalyan made her tournament debut, replacing Priyanka Devi Norem, while Malavika came on for Soumya Guguloth, and Sangeeta Basfore replaced Karishma. These changes immediately injected more pace and coordination into India’s attacking play.
Just six minutes into the second half, Manisha showcased her skills with a brilliant cross that reached Aveka Singh, but the midfielder couldn’t control the ball.
Finally, in the 58th minute, India’s persistent efforts paid off. Following a scramble near the penalty area, Bhutan’s goalkeeper Sangeeta ventured too far from her line. Initially, it seemed Aveka would score, but the ball bounced to Sangeeta Basfore, who bravely headed it to Sanfida Nongrum. The midfielder displayed remarkable composure, took a touch, and skillfully evaded the goalkeeper to score. This goal broke the deadlock and marked Sanfida’s second international goal.
Bhutan remained disciplined, making it difficult for India to break through, while their goalkeeper made several crucial saves to keep her team in the match. Ultimately, Sanfida’s goal proved decisive, securing India’s victory in a tough contest and a place in the final.
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