India’s journey at the SAFF Under-19 Women’s Championship 2026 hit its first roadblock on Monday as the Young Tigresses went down 2-0 to Bangladesh in a group-stage encounter at the Pokhara Rangasala Stadium. The result puts added pressure on India heading into their final group fixture, with qualification now hanging in the balance.
Bangladesh, one of the most decorated teams in South Asian women’s football, struck decisively in the first half to seize control of the contest. Aprita Biswas opened the scoring in the 29th minute, capitalising on sustained pressure, before Alpi Akter doubled the advantage just before the break, leaving India with a mountain to climb.
Despite moments of resistance after halftime, the Indian side was unable to find a breakthrough against a disciplined Bangladeshi defence. The victory marked Bangladesh’s second win in as many matches, having earlier registered a dominant 12-0 triumph over Bhutan, and ensured their place in the tournament final.
India, meanwhile, is competing with an Under-17 squad, using the championship as preparation for the AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup later this year. The developmental focus has brought valuable exposure, but it also showed against a more experienced Bangladeshi unit.
The Young Tigresses had opened their campaign on a positive note with a 1-0 victory over hosts Nepal, and will now need a win in their final group match against Bhutan to keep their hopes of progression alive.
The remaining group fixtures are scheduled for Wednesday, February 4, with Nepal set to face Bangladesh in the other encounter. The tournament final will be played on February 7.
While the defeat was a setback, India’s young squad continues to gain crucial international experience, a key step in strengthening the future of women’s football in the country.
