India's U17 Women's team delivered a dominant performance against Bhutan, winning 5-0 in their fourth match of the SAFF U17 Women's Championship 2025 at the Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu on Wednesday. This victory brings them closer to clinching the title.
The Young Tigresses displayed their dominance from the start, leading 3-0 at halftime. This was the second encounter between the two sides within four days, with India having previously secured an 8-0 victory. With this latest result, India has now won all four of their matches in the tournament, scoring 22 goals without conceding any. They currently hold the top spot in the group with 12 points, ahead of Bangladesh (9 points) and Nepal (3 points), while Bhutan is yet to earn a point.
Anushka Kumari continued her impressive form, scoring twice and assisting the fifth goal. Her total now stands at seven goals in the tournament, making her the leading contender for the golden boot. Shveta Rani, Julan Nongmaithem, and Nira Chanu Longjam also contributed with a goal each.
Bhutan, having conceded 13 goals in their previous three matches, aimed to strengthen their defense. However, India's relentless pressure made it difficult for them to contain the attacks. India's breakthrough came early in the fourth minute when a precise pass from the center circle found Anushka, who beat her marker and calmly slotted the ball past Bhutan's goalkeeper, Kelzang Wangmo.
India nearly doubled their lead shortly after through Pearl Fernandes, but her shot was blocked by a Bhutan defender. The Young Tigresses continued to create opportunities, particularly from set-pieces. In the 16th minute, Anushka Kumari scored again with a powerful free-kick. Shveta Rani added another goal in the 24th minute, further solidifying India's lead. In the second half, Julan Nongmaithem scored in the 77th minute, and Nira Chanu Longjam sealed the victory with a goal in added time.
In their previous match on August 24, 2025, India U17 Women defeated Bhutan 8-0, with Anushka Kumari scoring a hat-trick. Abhista Basnett scored twice, while Pearl Fernandes, Divyani Linda, and Valaina Fernandes each scored one goal. With these successive wins, India has demonstrated their strong performance and is now a strong contender for the SAFF U17 Women's Championship title.
