Hosts India, along with Bangladesh and Maldives, form Group B for the SAFF Women’s Championship 2026. The tournament is set to take place from May 25 to June 6 in Margao, with all matches at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.
In Group A, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan will compete, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the semi-finals. This edition marks India’s second time hosting the championship, with the previous hosting in 2016 resulting in India’s victory.
India, ranked 69th in the latest FIFA Women’s World Rankings, is the most successful team in the championship’s history with five titles. Bangladesh, the defending champions, have won the last two editions. India will aim to reclaim the title with the tournament being held in Goa, where they have previously tasted success.
The draw for the championship was based on the FIFA Women’s World Rankings, with teams placed in different pots. India and Nepal were in Pot 1, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka in Pot 2, and Bhutan and Maldives in Pot 3. India’s recent victories and home advantage make them strong contenders for the upcoming tournament.
The Indian women’s national team’s recent form, including a victory over Malawi in the FIFA Series 2026, adds to their confidence. With a competitive field and the support of home fans, India will strive to secure another SAFF Women’s Championship title.
