India look to finish strong against Bhutan in SAFF U19 Women's Championship

India currently sits third in the table in SAFF U19 Women’s Championship.

Pamela Conti’s India head into their final group-stage fixture of SAFF U19 Women’s Championship, placed third on the points table with 3 points from 2 matches, aware that there is little room for error.

The Young Tigresses began their campaign on a positive note with a hard-fought win over Nepal, showing discipline and promise, but were brought back to earth in their previous outing against a strong Bangladesh side.

That defeat has made the clash against Bhutan a decisive one, with India now requiring not just a win but a strong performance to boost their goal difference. With qualification for the next round still within reach, the focus will be on finishing the group stage on a high and keeping their championship hopes alive.

The Stakes

Bhutan U19

For Bhutan, the match against India is largely a game of pride and respect. Sitting at the bottom of the table with zero points, the team has already been eliminated from the tournament and will be looking to end their campaign on a positive note.

Their opening fixtures were tough, suffering a heavy 12‑0 defeat to Bangladesh and a narrow 2‑1 loss to Nepal, highlighting the gap they need to close at this level.

Despite the challenging results, Bhutan will be determined to give their best against India. The players will aim to salvage some dignity and leave the tournament with a respectable performance, making this clash an important opportunity for the team to showcase resilience and gain valuable experience on the regional stage.

India U19

For India, the match against Bhutan carries both competitive and developmental importance. Head coach Pamela Conti has fielded a U17 squad in this U19 tournament to prepare the players for the upcoming AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup.

While the Young Tigresses have shown promise, this tournament provides a vital platform for gaining international experience and fine-tuning their tactics ahead of bigger challenges.

On the table, India currently sits in third place, level on points with Nepal but behind on goal difference. A strong, high-scoring win against Bhutan would not only boost team confidence but also improve their goal difference, keeping their hopes alive for a spot in the final.

With qualification on the line, India will be looking to combine attacking flair with discipline to finish the group stage on a high.

Team News

Bhutan head coach Tanka Maya Ghalley should have her whole squad available for selection in this game.

Similarly, India’s head coach Pamela Conti will have her whole squad available.

Head-to-Head Record

Matches Played – 2

Bhutan U19 wins – 0

India U19 wins – 2

Draws – 0

Predicted Lineups

Bhutan U19 (4-2-3-1)

Sonam Choden (GK), Nima Wangmo, Khandu Tshomo, Sonam Choden, Jigme Choden, Pema Dekar, Tshendu Pelzom, Lhamo, Tshomo, Sangay Wangmo, Chorten Zangmo

India U19 (4-2-3-1)

Munni (GK), Elibazed Lakra, Taniya Devi, Abhista Basnett, Alva Devi, Divyani Linda, Anukshka Kumari, Thanda Baskey, Redima Chingkhamayum, Valaina Fernandes, Pearl Fernandes

Players to Watchout

Sonam Choden (Bhutan)

Bhutan will lean on their captain, Sonam Choden, to anchor the defense in what will be a testing match against India. A strong and disciplined center-back, she will be crucial in organizing the backline, intercepting attacks, and limiting spaces for India’s forwards.

Her defensive awareness and leadership will be key if Bhutan are to frustrate their opponents and protect their goal.

Pearl Fernandes (India)

Pearl Fernandes has been in fine form for India, scoring the winning goal against Nepal and continuing her rise as a decisive forward under Pamela Conti.

With intelligent movement and sharp finishing, she will look to trouble Bhutan’s defense, convert chances, and help India secure a crucial high-scoring win.

Telecast Details

The India U‑19 women’s team will take on Bhutan U‑19 in their final group-stage match on Tuesday, 4 February 2026. The game is scheduled to kick off at 11:45 AM IST and will be streamed live on the Sportzworkz YouTube channel.

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.