India vs Bhutan Player Ratings: Sanfida Nongrum, Manisha Kalyan impresses in SAFF Women's Championship 2026 Semi-final
India defeated Bhutan 1-0 to book a spot in the final
The Indian Women’s National team booked their place in the final of the SAFF Women’s Championship 2026 after edging past a determined Bhutan side 1-0 in the semi-final at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Goa, on Wednesday.
Sanfida Nongrum’s second-half strike proved to be the difference in a closely contested encounter, as the Blue Tigresses overcame stubborn resistance to keep their title hopes alive. The victory sets up a crucial final against defending champions Bangladesh.
India dominated possession for large spells against Bhutan but struggled to break down a disciplined defence in a goalless first half.
Karishma, Soumya Guguloth and Aveka Singh all came close for the Blue Tigresses, while Bhutan remained dangerous on the counter and created a few opportunities of their own. The breakthrough finally arrived in the second half when Sanfida Nongrum found the back of the net.
Substitutes Manisha Kalyan and Pyari Xaxa added fresh energy to the attack, but India could not extend their lead despite creating several late chances.
Here are the player ratings of the Blue Tigresses from the game against Bhutan.
India Player Ratings
Panthoi Chanu – 8/10
Panthoi remained composed throughout the game, producing some crucial saves to preserve India’s lead while also showcasing excellent distribution from the back.
Her calmness under pressure and decision-making were key to securing the clean sheet.
Purnima Kumari – 6/10
This game was a difficult evening for the defender. Purnima struggled to retain possession and looked shaky at times, allowing Bhutan opportunities to gain territory. This was not her most convincing performance.
Shilky Devi – 6/10
The captain endured an uncharacteristically error-prone outing. While she had moments of authority, two major defensive mistakes could have proven costly against a more clinical opposition.
India were fortunate Bhutan failed to capitalize on the mistakes.
Nirmala Devi – 6/10
Nirmala found it difficult to cope with pressure in possession. She also had a few misplaced passes and turnovers disrupted India’s rhythm, and she never quite looked settled during the contest.
Jasoda Munda – 6.5/10
Jasoda Munda worked hard on both ends of the pitch and competed well in duels. Showed intent going forward but lacked the final product to elevate her performance further and thus had an average performance.
Soumya Guguloth – 6.5/10
Soumya displayed flashes of quality with several impressive runs that stretched the Bhutan defense. She looked threatening in transition, though her influence faded at key moments.
Priyangka Naorem – 6.5/10
Priyangka was an energetic display on the field and she consistently looked to create opportunities and was involved in several promising attacking sequences. A positive outing overall.
Astam Oraon –7/10
Astam was one of India’s brighter attacking outlets. She created multiple chances and tested the goalkeeper with a shot on target.
Sanfida Nongrum – 8.5/10
Sanfida was India’s standout outfield performer. She not only scored the only goal but also constantly threatened Bhutan’s defense.
She came close to grabbing a second and looked dangerous whenever she got on the ball.
Karishma Shirvoikar – 6/10
A frustrating evening in front of goal. Struggled to convert opportunities and was eventually withdrawn early as India searched for greater attacking sharpness.
Aveka Singh – 6/10
Aveka should have ended the game with at least one goal. She missed several good opportunities, including chances created through direct passing moves. A night to forget for Aveka but overall, an average outing.
Substitutes
India’s substitutes played a crucial role in the second half, bringing much-needed energy and attacking intent to a side that had struggled to dominate the game
The Blue Tigresses looked far more threatening after the changes, with the substitutes helping maintain pressure and ultimately playing a key part in securing India’s place in the final.
Manisha Kalyan – 7.5/10
Manisha Kalyan was undoubtedly the game’s turning point from the bench. India’s attack looked far more dynamic after her introduction, with increased movement, creativity and attacking threat.
She delivered a hugely influential performance especially at the right time.
Pyari Xaxa – 7/10
Pyari Xaxa like always injected energy into India’s attack after coming on in the second half. She worked tirelessly, made intelligent runs and consistently looked to create openings.
Malavika P – 7/10
Malavika was lively on the wings and produced clever runs and delivered several dangerous crosses that helped India maintain attacking pressure.
Sangita Basfore – 7/10
Coming on at the beginning of the second half Sangita contributed well during transitions and helped India sustain momentum going forward. A composed and effective substitute appearance.
Lynda Kom – NA
Despite having a good performance in the previous game Lynda was introduced too late to make a significant impact.
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Balancing her medical studies with a strong passion for Indian football, Preethi has been a dedicated follower of the sport. Her speciality is covering and discovering stories, talking to players, conducting their interviews, and drafting articles. She particularly covers Hyderabad FC and other stories from the ISL and I-League.