Top five Indian player in SAFF U-19 Women's Championship 2024

India & Bangladesh were crowned joint-winners in this tournament.

The intense SAFF U-19 Women’s Championship concluded with both India and Bangladesh being crowned as champions. This marked India’s second championship victory, adding to their previous title in 2022.

In the entire tournament, the Indian team participated in four matches, including the final, and experienced only one defeat to Bangladesh in the league stage. India’s dominant victory was achieved against Bhutan, whom they defeated by a margin of 10-0 goals. Their second victory in the league stage was against Nepal, with a score of 4-0 goals in India’s favor.

In this article we will have a look at the top five Indian players in the SAFF U-19 Women’s Championship.

1. Sibani Devi Nongmeikapam

Sibani displayed remarkable assertiveness throughout the matches. She shares the distinction of being the highest goal scorer of the tournament, having scored four goals. Notably, she achieved a hat-trick during the match against Bhutan. Additionally, she was the exclusive goal scorer in the final match for India, granting her team a lead in the 8th minute of play.

2. Pooja

The other leading goal scorer for India is Pooja, who also played a crucial role in India’s midfield. She has scored four goals in the tournament, all of which were achieved in the first match against Bhutan. In addition to her goal-scoring ability, her presence on the field and her occasional duels in the attacking end during the final match demonstrate her potential for advancing in her career.

3. Anika Devi Sharubam

Although India had two dominant performances in the tournament, during which they faced minimal threats at the backline, the matches against Bangladesh proved to be challenging. Anika’s adept ball collections and crucial saves were among the major highlights in those matches. Additionally, she exhibited resilience in the final match by guarding the goal post and executing important saves to maintain her team’s competitive position. 

4. Sonibia Devi Irom

India’s defenders were tasked with significant duties during the matches against Bangladesh. Sonibia Devi’s performance on the right flank was notable for her adept tackling and clearances. Her crucial contribution to the team in the final match was substantial. Displaying composure, she adeptly controlled her nerves, maintained a relaxed demeanor while in possession, and opted for short passes over unnecessary clearances. 

5. Sulanjana Raul

Sulanjana Raul’s performance in midfield was captivating, showcasing superior ball control skills. She demonstrated her scoring prowess with two goals during the tournament, one against Bhutan and the other against Nepal. Additionally, her precision in passing exceeded that of her teammates, coupled with a consistent ability to capitalize on fleeting opportunities to advance the ball into the final third.

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