Gangtok, 24th August: The U17 Indian Women’s Football Team continued their superb run in the SAFF U17 Women’s Championship with a commanding 8-0 win over Bhutan at the Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu on Sunday. The result ensured India’s third straight victory in the tournament, strengthening their position at the top of the table with nine points and a goal difference of +17.
Sikkim’s rising star, Abhista Basnett, was once again among the stand-out performers for India. She broke the deadlock in the 23rd minute with a composed strike from a corner and sealed her brace in the 89th with a spectacular long-range effort. Her attacking display underlined her growing importance in India’s frontline and showcased her promise as one of the most exciting young forwards from Sikkim.
While Basnett made her mark, the spotlight of the evening fell on Anushka Kumari, who scored a sensational 19-minute hat-trick to dismantle Bhutan’s defence. Pearl Fernandes, Divyani Linda, and Valaina Fernandes also got their names on the scoresheet, as India dominated every phase of the contest and left their opponents struggling to contain the relentless attack.
With this emphatic victory, India look well on course to defend their title in the SAFF U17 Women’s Championship. For Sikkim, Basnett’s consistent performances have been a matter of pride, as she continues to inspire young footballers from the state and contribute to India’s growing stature in women’s football.
