At just 14 years old, Anushka Kumari has emerged as a sensational talent in Indian football, scoring 10 goals in 7 international matches. She played a pivotal role in India clinching the 2025 SAFF U17 Women’s Championship title, finishing as the tournament’s top scorer with eight goals.
Despite India’s heartbreaking 4-3 loss to Bangladesh in the final match, the team secured the championship with an unbeaten record prior to the finale. Praised by coaches, officials, and teammates alike, Anushka represents the promise of India’s young footballing future. This journey also highlights the growing recognition of women’s grassroots sports and the widening pathways for young girls in football.
Anushka’s Goal-Scoring Talent Shines Bright
Anushka Kumari’s remarkable ability to find the net has stunned many. In the 2025 SAFF U17 Women’s Championship held in Bhutan, she scored a memorable hat-trick within 19 minutes against Bhutan, contributing to an 8-0 victory.
Her performance throughout the tournament was stellar as she netted eight goals across six matches, helping India dominate with a record of five wins and one loss. The final round saw India facing Bangladesh, where Anushka scored a skillful equalizer early on, showcasing her agility and composure.
Coaches, including Joakim Alexandersson, praised the team’s balanced approach, while AIFF officials hailed the squad’s determination and spirit as signs of a promising future for Indian women’s football.
Overcoming Humble Beginnings
Originating from the village of Rukka in Jharkhand, Anushka’s path was marked by resilience. Inspired initially by watching her elder sisters play, she started kicking a ball at age six. At 11, she won a spot at the Residential Girls Football Centre in Hazaribagh, where her skills were honed.
Financial hardships loomed over her family, especially after her father’s injury prevented him from working, but Anushka’s dedication never wavered. Transitioning from an attacking midfielder to a striker under the guidance of coach Joakim in the Indian Women’s League, she became the top scorer for Indian Arrows Women Juniors with six goals. Her dream is clear: to represent the senior national team and lead India to the World Cup.
Beyond Individual Glory: A Bright Future for Women’s Football
The SAFF victory is a testament to India’s growing investment in youth football development. Players like Anushka and teammates such as Abhista Basnett (the tournament’s Most Valuable Player) and captain Julan Nongmaithem illustrate the depth and talent in the current squad.
The championship campaign included dominant wins over Nepal (7-0) and Bhutan (8-0), with India scoring 27 goals and conceding just four. While the final loss to Bangladesh was a painful conclusion, it couldn’t overshadow the team’s resilience and overall success. This win sets the stage for upcoming AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup qualifiers, where India aims to make a strong continental impact.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Anushka Kumari’s story is more than just sporting success; it is a powerful symbol of how perseverance, opportunity, and support can transform young lives and communities. For girls across India, her journey embodies hope and the breaking down of barriers in traditionally male-dominated sports.
The Logical Indian believes such stories should spur further investments in grassroots women’s sports, fostering environments where talent is nurtured irrespective of background.
