Young Tigresses shine in SAFF U17 women’s championship with emotional stories

India defeated Bhutan 5-0 in the SAFF U17 Women’s Championship, with captain Julan dedicating her MVP award to her late father, Abhista shining before her parents, Shveta scoring her first goal, and goalkeeper Munni keeping four clean sheets

Hyderabad: Wednesday’s 5-0 win over Bhutan may have looked like another routine high-scoring display from India in the SAFF Under-17 Women’s Championship, but it also carried deeper emotional moments.

Young Tigresses’ captain Julan Nongmaithem was named MVP of the match after scoring with a superb finish from outside the box. The 14-year-old dedicated her first-ever international award to her late father.

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“Papa, this is for you, and I miss you so much,” she said, pointing to the sky, while speaking to AIFF Media after the match.

Meanwhile, Abhista Basnett, who assisted Julan’s goal, had a special night as her parents were in attendance at the Changlimithang Stadium after travelling 350 km from their home in Pakyong, Sikkim.

“It was the first time my mom and dad watched me play for India. It was a proud moment, and I wanted to prove to them that I can do this. There was no pressure at all,” said Abhista.

The 14-year-old has been in fine form, scoring four goals and assisting three in four matches. She has shown her versatility by playing both in midfield and central defence.

“As a player, I should be ready to play in any position. The coaches have trusted me in attack, defence, set pieces, and distribution. If I make a mistake, I listen and learn,” she said.

Abhista’s parents, especially her father, also play a coaching role.
“My father always reviews my performances, pointing out what to improve and praising the good parts. My mother, meanwhile, is my emotional support, always motivating me,” she said.

For set pieces, Shveta Rani’s left-footed corners have been crucial. After providing two assists earlier in the tournament, the 16-year-old from Alakhpura, Haryana, finally opened her scoring account against Bhutan.

“I had been trying earlier, and this first goal motivates me more. Even when I don’t score, I focus on creating assists and supporting the team in defence. Set pieces are our strength, and I try to deliver the best corners,” she said.

Between the sticks, goalkeeper Munni has enjoyed a flawless campaign with four clean sheets. The 15-year-old made crucial saves against Nepal and Bangladesh and hopes to turn last year’s U16 silver medal into gold.

“Keeping four clean sheets is a team effort, not just mine. Our goal has been not only to win but also to avoid conceding. This time we want to win the trophy, and my aim is to be the Best Goalkeeper,” said Munni.

India will face Nepal in their penultimate group match on Friday, August 29, 2025, at 17:30 IST. The game will be streamed live on the Sportzworkz YouTube channel.