Nepal Crush Bhutan 3-0 in SAFF Women’s Championship Opener
Nepal’s women’s football team announced their arrival at the SAFF Women’s Championship 2026 in emphatic style, dismantling Bhutan 3-0 in the first half at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Goa, India. The result not only secures a vital three points but also sends a clear message to tournament favorites India and Bangladesh.
- Result: Nepal 3-0 Bhutan (First half)
- Venue: Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Goa, India
- Date: May 25, 2026
- Competition: SAFF Women’s Championship 2026
First-Half Blitz: How Nepal Overwhelmed Bhutan
From the opening whistle, Nepal pressed high and exploited Bhutan’s defensive frailties. The midfield trio of captain Renuka Nagarkote, Anita Basnet, and Saru Limbu controlled the tempo, while striker Sabitra Bhandari led the line with relentless energy. The first goal came in the 12th minute when a swift counter-attack ended with Bhandari slotting home from a tight angle. The second followed shortly after, a powerful header from defender Gita Rana off a corner. The third was a clinical finish from midfielder Anjali Thapa, who curled the ball into the top corner from outside the box. Bhutan had no answer to Nepal’s pace and precision.
Key Player Stats
| Player | Goals | Assists | Shots on Target | Pass Accuracy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sabitra Bhandari | 1 | 0 | 3 | 78% |
| Gita Rana | 1 | 0 | 1 | 85% |
| Anjali Thapa | 1 | 1 | 2 | 82% |
| Renuka Nagarkote | 0 | 1 | 0 | 90% |
What’s Next: Nepal vs Sri Lanka
Nepal’s second group match is against Sri Lanka on May 31. A win would virtually guarantee a semi-final spot. Sri Lanka, who lost their opener to India, will be desperate for points. Nepal’s tactical discipline and fitness will be tested against a Sri Lankan side known for their physicality. The team will also be monitoring the fitness of midfielder Saru Limbu, who limped off late in the first half against Bhutan.
Where to Watch
Fans can catch all the action live on Star Sports 3 (India) and FanCode (streaming). In Nepal, the matches are broadcast on Kantipur TV HD and streamed via Netra TV. For international viewers, the SAFF Women’s Championship is available on YouTube via the official SAFF channel.
Tournament Context
The SAFF Women’s Championship 2026 features six teams: India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Maldives. India are the defending champions and heavy favorites, but Nepal’s dominant start suggests they could be dark horses. The tournament serves as preparation for the RT Gold Cup 2026, where Nepal will also compete. The team’s recent form, including a series win against Bangladesh, has built momentum.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Nepal dominate Bhutan in the first half?
Nepal’s high-pressing game and quick transitions overwhelmed Bhutan’s defense. The midfield trio of Nagarkote, Basnet, and Limbu provided both defensive cover and creative passing, while Bhandari’s movement stretched the Bhutan backline.
What are Sabitra Bhandari’s career stats for Nepal?
Sabitra Bhandari is Nepal’s all-time leading scorer with over 40 international goals. She has been instrumental in Nepal’s rise in South Asian football, with a goal-scoring rate of nearly a goal per game in competitive matches.
How can I watch Nepal vs Sri Lanka live?
The match on May 31 will be broadcast on Star Sports 3 and FanCode in India, Kantipur TV HD in Nepal, and streamed on the SAFF YouTube channel. Kick-off is at 4:00 PM IST.
What is the SAFF Women’s Championship 2026 schedule?
The tournament runs from May 25 to June 8. Nepal’s group matches: vs Bhutan (May 25), vs Sri Lanka (May 31), vs Maldives (June 3). The semi-finals are on June 5 and the final on June 8.
Who are the key players for Nepal in this tournament?
Captain Renuka Nagarkote (midfielder), Sabitra Bhandari (striker), Gita Rana (defender), and Anjali Thapa (midfielder) are the key players. Goalkeeper Anjila Tumbapo Subba is also crucial with her shot-stopping ability.
