India set to face defending champions Bangladesh in their second match of SAFF Women's Championship 2026

Both sides defeated Maldives in their first game

The Indian women’s football team are set to face their biggest challenge of the SAFF Women’s Championship 2026, when they host the defending champions Bangladesh in their upcoming group clash on Sunday (31 May 2026) at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Goa.

With both sides having qualified for the semifinals, this will only be a battle of bragging rights where the Blue Tigresses aim to flex their muscles by getting a big win over a team that has been their kryptonite in the SAFF division in recent years.

The Stakes

India

For the Indian women’s team, the upcoming clash against Bangladesh will be the perfect opportunity to flex their muscles. The Blue Tigresses have actually lost their last two matches against Bangladesh women in the SAFF Women’s Championship, and they would be absolutely determined to end that.

Crispin Chettri’s side has home advantage on their side, which they will aim to use well to play some thrilling attacking football and be innovative enough to break down the Bangladesh side.

India realise that a commanding win over the Bangladesh will not only help them get a first-place finish to move onto the semi-finals but also be a statement of intent on their SAFF Women’s Championship-winning hopes. A draw or a loss, however, could negatively impact their momentum heading into the knockout stages.

Bangladesh

The Bangladesh women’s side were able to get a thrilling win over the Maldives women to kick off their SAFF Women’s Championship defence in compelling fashion.

They have already qualified for the semi-finals, but a major task is in front of them before the knockout stages. Bangladesh women realise that they can make a powerful statement if they’re able to defeat India at their own yard in this upcoming clash.

Not only would that demoralise the hosts but also be a huge boost in self-belief for Bangladesh players in their ability to win the SAFF Women’s Championship for the third straight edition.

However, if they end up suffering a crushing loss in this upcoming game, then Bangladesh women will see all their momentum come crashing down before the semi-final.

Team News

India should have the same squad that thrashed Maldives 11-0, with Manisha Kalyan still unavailable as she’ll join the squad on June 1 once the FIFA window opens.

Bangladesh should also have the same squad that was available in their recent clash against the Maldives.

Head-to-Head Record

Matches Played – 12

India wins – 9

Bangladesh wins – 2

Draws – 1

Predicted Lineups

India (4-2-3-1):

Panthoi Chanu (GK), Purnima Kumari, Juli Kishan, Ranjana Chanu, Shilky Devi, Aveka Singh, Sangita Basfore, Sarita Yumnam, Sanfida, Dangmei Grace, Pyari Xaxa

Bangladesh (4-2-3-1):

Mile Akter (GK), Shamshunnahar, Afeida Khandaker, Kohati Kisku, Maria Manda, Sauravi Prity, Surovi Arfin, Mst Sagorika, Umhela Marma, Ritu Porna Chakma, Tohura Khatun

Players to Watchout

Aveka Singh (India)

Aveka Singh is definitely one of the brightest young talents in the Indian women’s team, and someone who looks poised to play a crucial role in the Blue Tigresses rise to becoming one of the more formidable teams in the Asian football scene.

The 22-year-old, currently playing for Danish club Naestved HG, had a brilliant start to the 2026 SAFF Women’s Championship as she scored four goals in the 11-0 thrashing of the Maldives.

Aveka is a really gifted midfielder, being able to cover a lot of space in the midfield to win the ball back and dominate duels. She’s also proven her efficiency in scoring goals in the last game, and aims to continue that good form against Bangladesh.

The 22-year-old will face a stern battle against the strong Bangladeshi players, but she’ll look to use her movement in midfield to outwit them and win the match for her side.

Ritu Porna Chakma (Bangladesh)

Ritu Porna Chakma is highly regarded in Bangladesh women’s football for being a dangerous winger who keeps gaining more attraction at the international stage. Chakma has already made 39 appearances for Bangladesh at the age of 22, and scored 13 goals in that period as well.

Chakma will look to prove why she’s held in such high regard by being a nightmare to deal with for the Indian defenders.

The 22-year-old will aim to use her clever off-the-ball movement and dribbling skills to burst past defenders, as well as be a threat on the transitions.

However, Chakma will need to nail her final third passes and convert any chances she gets clinically to help Bangladesh get a commanding win over the hosts.

Did you know?

• India have won the SAFF Women’s Championship five times but are yet to win it in the last six years.
• Bangladesh have won their last two matches against India, scoring six goals and conceding one goal in that period.
• India are the highest-ranked team at the 2026 SAFF Women’s Championship, being in the 69th position in the FIFA World Rankings currently.

Broadcast Details

The SAFF Women’s Championship 2026 group clash between India and Bangladesh will take place at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Goa on Sunday (31 May 2026).

The match will be kicking off at 7:30 PM IST and will be live streamed on FanCode.

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