Shillong, Aug 22: India’s U17 women’s team continued their fine run at the SAFF U17 Women’s Championship 2025 with a convincing 2-0 win over Bangladesh at the Changlimithang Stadium on Friday.
The victory marked their second straight triumph in the tournament, consolidating their position at the top of the table with six points from two matches.
Goals from Pearl Fernandes (14’) and substitute Bonifilia Shullai (76’) sealed the win for the Young Tigresses, who displayed composure, discipline, and maturity throughout the contest.
Both teams came into the fixture with an even record in the competition’s history — two titles apiece and four finals between them. However, India ensured that Bangladesh were always second best in this encounter.
From the outset, the Indian defence stood firm, marshalled effectively to deny Bangladesh clear chances. Goalkeeper Munni remained alert, pulling off crucial saves, including a clean collection from Fatema Akter’s powerful strike in the 37th minute.
India’s breakthrough came early when right-back Divyani Linda surged forward from deep and found Pearl Fernandes unmarked at the edge of the box. Pearl’s powerful left-footer was parried by Bangladesh keeper Yearzan Begum but still found the net.
Bangladesh looked to reply through set-pieces but rarely troubled Munni. India almost extended their lead in the 72nd minute through Nira Chanu Longjam, but Begum produced a fine save. Four minutes later, Alisha Lyngdoh’s corner found Bonifilia Shullai, who coolly slotted home to double the lead.
India then managed the game smartly, slowing down play and keeping Bangladesh at bay to secure full points.
Speaking after the match, goal scorer Bonifilia Shullai said, “This win against Bangladesh feels really important and boosts our confidence for the upcoming matches as we aim for the trophy.”
India U17 Women (Starting XI): Munni (GK), Elizabed Lakra, Divyani Linda, Julan Nongmaithem (C) (Thandamoni Baskey 66′), Anushka Kumari, Pearl Fernandes (Bonifilia Shullai 62′), Shveta Rani (Anita Dungdung 62′), Abhista Basnett (Alena Devi Sarangthem 71′), Nira Chanu Longjam, Alisha Lyngdoh, Pritika Barman (Taniya Devi Tonambam 46′).
Also Read: JSU urges rescheduling of Gram Sevak & Gram Sevika exams to avoid clash with MPSC tests
Also Watch
Find latest news from every corner of Northeast India at hubnetwork.in, your online source for breaking news, video coverage.
Also, Follow us on-
Twitter-twitter.com/nemediahub
Youtube channel- www.youtube.com/@NortheastMediaHub2020
Instagram- www.instagram.com/ne_media_hub
Download our app from playstore – Northeast Media Hub
