Grace Dangmei Retires After India Wins SAFF Title

The Indian women’s football team captured the 2026 SAFF Women’s Championship with a 3-1 victory against Bangladesh in Margao, Goa, prompting veteran forward Grace Dangmei to announce her retirement from international football. The 30-year-old concluded her 13-year international career after securing her third regional title.

Margao: Indian women’s football team stalwart Grace Dangmei on Saturday announced her international retirement after the team won the SAFF Championships title following a 3-1 win over Bangladesh in the final here.

The 30-year-old Manipuri forward represented the country 95 times since her debut in 2013, and ended her international career on a high after winning her third SAFF title.

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She was not in the starting XI in the summit clash and came on as a substitute in the 86th minute. But she was handed the captain’s armband later and she lifted the trophy during the prize distribution ceremony.

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During her illustrious career which lasted nearly 15 years, Grace played for top Indian clubs like KRYPHSA, Sethu FC, Gokulam Kerala, Sribhumi.

In 2022, Grace joined Uzbek Women’s League side FC Nasaf Karshi on a season-long contract. She helped her Uzbek team win both the league and cup in that calendar year, scoring 4 goals in 14 league matches.

Match Performance and Tournament Statistics

The 3-1 victory at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium marked India’s first South Asian title since 2019. Pyari Xaxa opened the scoring for India in the 42nd minute, though Bangladesh’s Ritu Porna Chakma equalized during first-half stoppage time.

The Blue Tigresses responded immediately in the second half, with Sanfida Nongrum scoring a header just 40 seconds after the restart. Substitute Lynda Kom Serto confirmed the victory with an 82nd-minute goal following a defensive miscue by Bangladesh.

India’s undefeated run through the 2026 tournament featured 18 goals scored and only 1 conceded across 4 matches. Midfielder Aveka Singh secured the tournament’s top scorer award with 4 goals, Sanfida Nongrum claimed Most Valuable Player, and Panthoi Chanu Elangbam won Best Goalkeeper.

History of India’s SAFF Championship Dominance

India’s victory in 2026 represents a return to the peak of South Asian women’s football, securing a record-extending sixth regional title. Prior to this campaign, the Blue Tigresses had endured a seven-year title drought, watching rivals Bangladesh claim consecutive championships.

Grace Dangmei’s career mirrored this golden era of national football. Since debuting in 2013, she remained an foundational presence through three of India’s SAFF championship runs, transitionary squad shifts, and historic overseas club placements.

FAQs

How many international appearances did Grace Dangmei make before retiring?

Grace Dangmei played 95 times for the Indian women’s national football team after making her international debut in 2013.

Which football clubs did Grace Dangmei play for during her career?

Domestically, she played for prominent Indian clubs including KRYPHSA, Sethu FC, Gokulam Kerala, and Sribhumi. Internationally, she played for FC Nasaf Karshi in the Uzbek Women’s League.

What was the final score of the 2026 SAFF Women’s Championship final?

India defeated Bangladesh 3-1 in the final match, with goals from Pyari Xaxa, Sanfida Nongrum, and Lynda Kom Serto.

Who won the individual player awards at the 2026 tournament?

Aveka Singh finished as the top scorer with 4 goals, Sanfida Nongrum was named Most Valuable Player, and Panthoi Chanu Elangbam earned the Best Goalkeeper award.