SAFF Women’s Championship: Top five Bangladesh players to watch out for against India
Ritu Porna Chakma, Tohura Khatun, and a few other names could have a bigger impact in the final.
The defending champions, Bangladesh, are set to face the Indian national women’s team in the SAFF Women’s Championship 2026 final at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Goa on June 6.
The stage is set for a blockbuster finale where the hosts will aim for nothing but to carry forward the positive run and clinch the sixth title while the rivals will look for revenge to defend the crown.
The Bangladesh national women’s team suffered a 0-3 defeat to the Blue Tigresses when both sides met up in the group stage fixture. However, the defending champions finished second in the Group B standings to make it to the semi-finals.
The Bengal Tigresses came back on winning ways in the knockout fixture. They edged out Nepal by a 2-1 scoreline to qualify for the final in successive years.
As the final match is approaching fast, we take a look at the Bangladesh players who could light up the stage in the title decider.
Tohura Khatun
Tohura Khatun remains the spearhead in Bangladesh’s forward line. The dynamic forward comes with quick speed and agile footwork and is capable of scoring goals and creating chances.
The jersey no. 10 has been representing her country since 2018 and has recorded 39 appearances for the national team.
Khatun has been quite effective in build-up play. She could be a constant challenge for the Indian defenders in the final game.
Ritu Porna Chakma
Ritu Porna Chakma comes next in the list. The versatile midfielder has been part of the national setup since 2021 and recorded 14 goals in 41 games.
She found herself on the scoresheet in their last game against Nepal in their 2-1 win in the semis.
Ritu Porna Chakma possesses a unique skill set in controlling the rhythm of the game and inch-perfect deliveries in set-piece situations.
Mile Akter
Mile Akter has featured in all three games in Bangladesh’s last line of defence in this tournament.The young goalkeeper may have failed to register any clean sheets, but her shot-stopping abilities and calmness could be instrumental in the final. Akter, who represented her country in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup, could play a decisive role under the bars to help the Bengal Tigresses clinch their second straight SAFF Women’s Championship.
Maria Manda
Maria Manda has been an integral part of Bangladesh’s midfield. Known for her vision, calm composure under pressure, and work rate, she has been the anchor for her country, acting as a bridge between the defence and the attack.
Manda was a part of Bangladesh’s championship-winning squad in 2022 and 2024. Her role in breaking the opposition’s counter moves, intercepting, and winning possession back for her team could be pivotal in the forthcoming fixture.
Mst. Sagorika
The 18-year-old winger is one of Bangladesh’s rising stars. Coming through the ranks of Rangatungi United Football Academy, Sagorika made her international debut in 2024 and scored five goals in 16 games in national colours.
Known for his pace, energy, and quick moves in the opposition half, the teenage forward has a lot of things to offer. Sagorika was also a part of the 2024 title-winning Bangladesh squad.
When will India play against Bangladesh?
India will play against Bangladesh on June 6 at 6:30 PM IST.
Who are the defending champions?
Bangladesh are the defending champions.
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.
Shibashis is a sports journalist with over three years of experience covering Indian football. His work spans reporting, writing, and editing, with a strong focus on telling stories from across the Indian football landscape. Passionate about both Indian and European football, he continues to build his career by combining sharp reporting with a deep love for the game.