New Delhi, June 7: The Indian women’s football team has ended a seven-year drought by clinching the SAFF Championship 2026 title on Saturday. In the final match, the Indian team defeated Bangladesh 3-1. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the team on this significant achievement.
The Prime Minister stated that this victory will inspire youth to engage in football in the coming years. He took to the social media platform ‘X’ to express his congratulations, writing, “Congratulations to the Indian women’s football team for winning the SAFF Women’s Championship 2026. They played exceptionally well throughout the tournament. This victory will motivate more young players to take up football. Best wishes for their future endeavors.”
The Indian team’s performance was outstanding throughout the tournament. In the title match against Bangladesh, Pyari Jaksaa scored the first goal for India. In the 42nd minute, she showcased remarkable agility in the penalty area, delivering a powerful shot. Suravi Akhtar attempted to block Jaksaa’s shot, but the ball deflected over Mike Akhtar’s head and into the goalpost.
However, Bangladesh quickly responded just minutes later. In stoppage time, Ritu Porna outmaneuvered India’s defense to score a brilliant goal, leveling the score at 1-1. Shortly after halftime, Pyari Jaksaa’s excellent cross pass enabled Sanfida Nongrum to score with a superb header, giving India a 2-1 lead.
In the 82nd minute, substitute player Linda Com Sarto secured the victory by scoring India’s third goal. The Indian team netted a total of 18 goals in the tournament, while the opposing teams managed to breach India’s defense only once. Aweka Singh emerged as the tournament’s top scorer, netting four goals.
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SM/AS
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