India has been crowned champions of the 2025 SAFF U17 Women’s Championship held in Bhutan, sealing the title despite a narrow 3-4 defeat to Bangladesh in their final match.
With five commanding wins and only one loss, the Young Tigresses finished top of the table, asserting their dominance in the South Asian region. The team’s clinical attack and resilient defence, under coach Joakim Alexandersson, earned widespread praise as India now looks ahead to the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup qualifiers.
Dominant Campaign and Tournament Structure
The tournament, played in Bhutan from August 20 to 31, featured a double round-robin system where each of the four participating teams faced one another twice. India started its campaign in striking fashion, opening with a 7-0 rout of Nepal and following up with wins against Bangladesh (2-0) and Bhutan (8-0).
In the return legs, the Indian side continued its winning streak, defeating Bhutan and Nepal 5-0 each, accumulating a staggering 27 goals and conceding none until the final match. Their sixth and last game, against Bangladesh, featured a spirited comeback with India equalising thrice before succumbing to a 3-4 scoreline. Despite the loss, India’s earlier dominance had secured them an unassailable position atop the standings.
Star Performers and Official Praise
The Young Tigresses were led by standout players including Anushka Kumari, who consistently featured on the scoresheet, along with captain Julan Nongmaithem, Pritika Barman, and Abhista Basnett, who made key contributions in both attack and midfield. Anushka’s remarkable tally of goals in the campaign underpinned India’s rapid attacks and pressure on opponents.
Following their championship win, coach Joakim Alexandersson commended the players for their “balanced and confident approach,” noting that the final match’s result “does not define our achievement but serves as a lesson going forward”. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) also lauded the girls’ efforts, emphasising that their “team spirit and determination reflect the future of Indian women’s football.”
Turning Points and Championship Impact
India’s road to the title was shaped by consistent teamwork and depth of talent, as shown by multi-goal wins and tactical flexibility. A critical moment came when Bangladesh could only manage a draw against Bhutan, mathematically confirming India’s title before their last match even began.
The final against Bangladesh, though a loss, showcased the team’s fighting spirit, with goals from Anushka Kumari, Pritika Barman, and Julan evidenced their refusal to concede easily. The campaign’s success stands as a testament to the effectiveness of India’s youth football development and serves as preparation for continental competitions.
Adding further colour and emotion to the story, Indian players were visibly moved after the close defeat, many breaking into tears at the final whistle. The thrilling final minutes saw a last-gasp own-goal rebound sealing Bangladesh’s win, turning the championship’s conclusion into a dramatic and unforgettable moment for all involved.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
India’s U17 women’s squad has redefined what it means to compete with hope, skill, and unity on the South Asian stage. Their journey exemplifies how sports can inspire, challenge stereotypes, and drive inclusion, reminding us that setbacks are stepping stones to greater triumphs.
INDIA – U17 SAFF Women's Champion 2025 🏆pic.twitter.com/oVULcBxnrO https://t.co/LhEp6IixgM
— The Khel India (@TheKhelIndia) September 1, 2025
