The Indian U17 women’s football team got their SAFF U17 Women Championship 2025 campaign off to a flying start with a comprehensive 7-0 victory over Nepal at the Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu, Bhutan, on Wednesday, August 20.
The result not only marked a dream start for the Young Tigresses but also underlined their intent to reclaim regional supremacy. With braces from Nira Chanu Longjam (25’, 56’), Abhista Basnett (16’, 41’), and Anushka Kumari (37’, 62’), and a goal from captain Julan Nongmaithem (45+1’), India raced to a commanding win that left Nepal outclassed in every department. A dominant first half, where India went into the break with a 5-0 lead, effectively decided the contest.
The opening minutes saw Nepal press high and attempt to disrupt India’s rhythm, but the composure and structure drilled into this squad since January soon began to shine. The midfield trio controlled possession, finding passing lanes with ease and releasing the forwards into threatening positions. The breakthrough came in the 16th minute from a set-piece. Shveta Rani’s dangerous corner from the left unsettled Nepal goalkeeper Jharna Dumrakoti, whose fumble fell perfectly for Abhista Basnett, who tapped home from close range.
Ten minutes later, Nira Chanu Longjam doubled the lead. Played through by Anushka, she shrugged off her marker before drilling a low finish past Dumrakoti. The third came in the 37th minute as Anushka turned scorer, timing her run perfectly before finishing calmly one-on-one with the keeper. India’s relentless pressure yielded a fourth just before the interval. A deflected ball inside the box was seized upon by Abhista, who lashed home for her second of the night. On the stroke of half-time, captain Julan Nongmaithem joined the scoresheet, reacting quickly to a goalmouth scramble and firing home to make it 5-0 at the break.
Relentless Second Half
Many teams might have chosen to manage the game from such a commanding position, but India showed no intention of slowing down. Their attacking combinations continued to cut open Nepal’s defence, with pace and precision proving too much for their opponents. In the 56th minute, Nira completed her brace with a powerful strike after drifting into space inside the penalty area. Six minutes later, India’s seventh goal came from a beautifully worked move. Abhista set up Nira, who cleverly drew the goalkeeper out before squaring for Anushka Kumari to score her second of the match into an open goal.
Substitutions in the second half including the introductions of Pritika Barman, Bonifilia Shullai, and Pearl Fernandes kept India’s energy levels high and allowed the coaching staff to give exposure to more players.
Defensive Organisation and Midfield Control
While the scoreline highlights India’s attacking firepower, the team’s defensive discipline was equally impressive. Goalkeeper Munni had a relatively quiet evening but remained alert to any half-chances, ensuring a well-earned clean sheet. The defensive unit marshalled by Alena Devi, Taniya Devi, and Elizabed Lakra maintained shape, absorbed Nepal’s early pressure, and transitioned the ball swiftly into midfield.
In the middle of the park, Divyani Linda and Shveta Rani dictated tempo, while captain Julan contributed box-to-box, leading with both voice and action. Shveta’s set-piece delivery created repeated problems for Nepal and proved decisive in breaking the deadlock. The match was defined by the attacking trident of Nira, Abhista, and Anushka, who each finished with two goals. Their chemistry was evident one creating, another finishing and Nepal’s defenders found it nearly impossible to contain them.
Crucially, India’s scoring was spread across multiple players, reducing over-reliance on a single striker. Captain Julan’s contribution from midfield, combined with the clinical finishing of the forwards, reflected a balanced side capable of scoring from various avenues. This year’s SAFF U17 Women’s Championship is being played in a double round-robin format, meaning consistency will be key. Starting with such a dominant win gives India not only three points but also a significant psychological edge.
Head coach and staff will be pleased with the performance, which vindicates the months of preparation and camps that began in early 2025. The training focus on tactical cohesion and match sharpness was evident in the fluid interplay and relentless pressing that overwhelmed Nepal. India’s next match against Bangladesh on July 22 will be a sterner test. Bangladesh has consistently been one of the stronger teams in South Asian women’s football and will challenge India’s defensive solidity more than Nepal did. However, the Young Tigresses’ display in Thimphu suggests they are ready for tougher battles.
Beyond the immediate tournament, performances like this also bode well for the long-term growth of Indian women’s football. The SAFF U17 Championship has often served as a stepping stone for future stars of the senior national team. With this squad showing such maturity and cohesion at a young age, the pipeline for Indian women’s football looks promising.
India’s 7-0 demolition of Nepal was more than just a win it was a statement of intent. Ruthless in attack, organised in defence, and brimming with confidence, the Young Tigresses set the tone for their campaign. Braces from Nira, Abhista, and Anushka, along with captain Julan’s strike, highlighted both individual brilliance and team cohesion.
As they prepare to face Bangladesh, the message is clear: India is here to dominate. If they can maintain this level across the tournament, the SAFF U17 Women’s Championship 2025 could well belong to the Young Tigresses.
