India begin SAFF U-19 Women’s Championship with a win over Nepal

Pamela Conti’s India starts the tournament on a good note

India kicked off their SAFF U-19 Women’s Championship campaign on a winning note, edging past hosts Nepal in a tightly fought encounter in Pokhara.

Despite fielding a younger U-17 squad as part of their long-term development plans, the Indian side displayed maturity, composure and strong tactical awareness to claim all three points in their opening match, sending out a clear statement against more experienced opposition.

India edge past Nepal

The contest was evenly poised in the first half, with both teams testing each other’s defensive lines but struggling to create clear-cut chances. India enjoyed longer spells on the ball and looked more composed in possession, while Nepal threatened mainly through quick counterattacks.

The decisive moment arrived shortly after the restart, when Pearl Fernandes broke the deadlock in the 49th minute, calmly finishing to give India a vital 1–0 lead. Her goal proved to be the difference on the night and rewarded India’s patient build-up play and attacking intent.

India had another chance in injury time when Elizabeth played it to substitute Anwita Raghuraman, who laid it off for Julan. The India captain faked her shot before threading a pass through to Alva, but the Nepal defense managed to scupper the intricate move.

After going ahead, India showed impressive game management for such a young side. The defence stayed compact and organised; the midfield controlled the tempo and the team limited Nepal to very few meaningful opportunities. Despite late pressure from the hosts, India held their shape and composure to see out the match and secure a 1–0 victory and a clean sheet, a strong and mature performance from the young Blue Tigresses on the international stage.

The match also marked a special milestone for Indian football, as head coach Pamela Conti handed out junior India debuts to Redima Devi Chingkhamayum and Alva Devi Senjam. Both youngsters were named in the starting XI, highlighting the coaching staff’s faith in their ability to step up on the international stage despite their young age.

Challenge ahead

India will now turn their attention to a much sterner challenge as they prepare to face Bangladesh in their next group encounter which is scheduled to take place on 2nd February. The fixture is expected to be a true test of character for the young Indian side, who are continuing to gain valuable exposure by competing against older and more experienced opponents in the tournament.

Earlier in the day, Bangladesh announced themselves as strong contenders by registering a dominant 12–0 victory over Bhutan, a result that placed them at the top of the group standings on goal difference. India, following their narrow win over Nepal, currently sit second in the table, setting up an intriguing and high stakes clash between the two sides.

Bangladesh will be a tough opponent, coming into the match full of confidence and attacking intent. India will need to stay focused, organized and disciplined throughout the game, especially against a side that has already shown how dangerous they can be going forward.

For the young U-17 squad, this match is another important step in their journey. It gives them a chance to test themselves against strong opposition, gain more match experience, and continue growing as a unit. Performances like these will help the players build confidence and prepare better for future continental tournaments.

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