A 3-1 victory over hosts Nepal ensured India with fifth straight SAFF Women’s Championship title. Dalima Chhiber, Grace Dangmei and substitute Anju Tamang were on target as India displayed a dominating performance in the finals at the Sahid Rangashala Stadium.
The match was an even affair for both the teams at the start of the game. While, Dangmei had a couple of early chances down the right wing for India, Nepal registered a couple of shots from distance. Following some excellent build-up to the game, the deadlock was broken in the 26th minute with Indian right back Chibber smashing the ball past the keeper from a free-kick. However, Sabitra equalized for the hosts in the 34th minute.
The second half was a different scenario with India creating a majority of the chances and this pressing football paid off in the 63rd minute. Sanju put Grace through on goal with a delightful through ball and the winger slotted the ball home to restore India’s advantage. Finally, Anju Tamang slammed the ball on the volley in the 78th minute to score the decisive goal of the match.
India have extended their unbeaten run in the tournament’s history to 23 games with this victory.
