Pokhara, February 4: India’s Under-17 team delivered a stunning performance, defeating Bhutan 8-0 in their round-robin match at the SAFF Under-19 Women’s Championship. This victory secured India a spot in the finals, where they will face Bangladesh on February 7.
In the match held at Pokhara Stadium, Pearl Fernandes shone with a hat-trick, while Preetika Barman contributed two goals. Alisha Lingdoh, Abhista Basnet, and Divyani Linda also scored, showcasing the relentless attacking style of the “Young Tigresses.”
India quickly established control, with Alisha Lingdoh opening the scoring in the sixth minute with a brilliant shot from outside the penalty area. Shortly after, Abhista Basnet doubled the lead with a close-range goal from a pass by Preetika Barman.
Pearl Fernandes then took charge, scoring the third goal with a well-timed through ball. Divyani Linda added the fourth with a close finish, and Preetika extended the lead further with a goal from the right side of the box in the 25th minute. Pearl continued to apply pressure, completing her hat-trick with two more goals before halftime, leaving India ahead 7-0 at the break.
After the interval, India made several substitutions but maintained the game’s pace. The Young Tigresses created multiple chances, hitting the post twice, before Preetika Barman sealed the emphatic victory with her second goal in the final minute. She was named the “Player of the Match.”
With this result, India stands second in the standings with six points from three matches, three points behind table-toppers Bangladesh. Earlier in the day, Bangladesh secured their final spot by defeating host Nepal 4-0. Nepal finished third with three points, while Bhutan exited the tournament without any points. The Indian Under-17 team is participating in the Under-19 tournament as part of their preparations for the AFC Under-17 Women’s Asian Cup in China 2026.
