India U-19 Women’s Football Team delivered a ruthless attacking performance to thrash Bhutan U-19 Women’s Football Team 8-0 at the Pokhara Rangasala on Wednesday, moving a decisive step closer to lifting the Under-19 SAFF Women’s Championship title. The emphatic victory confirmed India’s place in the final of the tournament.
The result gained further significance later in the day when Bangladesh U-19 Women’s Football Team defeated hosts Nepal U-19 Women’s Football Team 4-0 in the second match. That outcome ensured that India, who needed at least a draw to remain in contention, progressed to the final regardless of the remaining fixtures.
India began the contest with clear intent, pressing high and attacking from the opening whistle. Their early dominance was rewarded in the sixth minute when Alisha Lyngdoh opened the scoring with a composed finish. The pressure did not relent, and just four minutes later Abhista Basnett doubled the lead, setting the tone for a one-sided encounter.
From there, India ran riot. Pearl Fernandes emerged as the standout performer, scoring a clinical hat-trick as the Bhutan defence struggled to cope with the relentless waves of attack. Goals continued to flow, with Divyani Linda and Pritika Barman also finding the net to underline India’s superiority.
By the time the halftime whistle blew, the contest was effectively decided. India had surged into a commanding 7-0 lead, showcasing their depth, pace, and sharp finishing. Despite the scoreline, the Young Tigresses maintained their intensity in the second half, controlling possession and continuing to create chances.
Barman added her second goal of the match and India’s eighth just a minute from time, putting the finishing touch on a dominant display that left no doubt about their credentials.
With the group stage concluded, India finished second in the standings with six points from three matches, three behind table-toppers Bangladesh. Nepal ended third with three points, while Bhutan finished bottom of the table without a point. India will now turn their focus to the final, carrying strong momentum and confidence after an emphatic statement win.
