India crowned SAFF U17 Women’s champions despite defeat to Bangladesh

India faced their sole defeat in the SAFF U17 Women's Championship 2025, falling 3-4 to Bangladesh at Changlimithang Stadium, Bhutan. Despite this loss, they secured the championship title with an unbeatable points advantage before their final game.The Indian team completed the tournament with an impressive record of five victories and one defeat.Bangladesh's Purnima Marma scored in the first minute, followed by India's Anushka Kumari equalizing in the ninth minute. Bangladesh then took control with Alpi Akter scoring in the 34th minute and Sauravi Prity adding another in the 48th minute.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!India's Pritika Barman reduced the deficit in the 65th minute, and captain Julan equalized in the 89th minute.

Prity sealed Bangladesh's victory with a goal in injury time.The match began dramatically with Purnima Marma scoring within 30 seconds, marking the first goal conceded by India in the tournament.Anushka Kumari responded for India, skillfully manoeuvring past the goalkeeper and defenders to level the score. Bangladesh regained their lead when Alpi Akter capitalised on confusion in India's penalty area.India created several opportunities to equalise. Anushka's attempt from the right flank missed narrowly, and her powerful free-kick hit the post before halftime.

After the break, Sauravi Prity extended Bangladesh's lead by scoring past India's defence and goalkeeper Munni.India maintained offensive pressure, with Valaina heading wide from Pritika Barman's cross in the 59th minute.Pritika Barman reduced Bangladesh's lead with a strike from the right flank. She continued to create chances, but Bangladesh's defence held firm. Captain Julan scored from outside the box to level the match in the 89th minute. However, Prity's goal in added time secured Bangladesh's victory.The Indian team will now focus on preparations for the AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup Qualifiers, scheduled for October in Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic.