India Announce 23 Member Squad for SAFF Women’s Championship in Goa

India on Saturday announced its final 23 member squad for the SAFF Women’s Championship 2026 , with head coach Crispin Chettri finalising the team ahead of the continental tournament in Goa .

The championship will be held in Margao from May 25 to June 6, where India will once again enter as one of the favourites to lift the title. Defender Shubhangi Singh , midfielder Priyadharshini Selladurai , and forward Rimpa Haldar were the three players released from the preliminary 26 member squad announced earlier this week.

A major boost for the side is the inclusion of star forward Manisha Kalyan , who currently plays for Peruvian club Alianza Lima . However, the talented attacker will only be able to join the national camp once the FIFA international window opens on June 1. Until then, 22 players remain in the camp preparing for the opening fixtures.

Placed in Group B , India will begin their campaign against Maldives on May 25 before facing a crucial clash against Bangladesh on May 31. Group A features Nepal , Sri Lanka , and Bhutan . The top two teams from each group will advance to the semifinals scheduled for June 3, while the final will be played on June 6.

The squad reflects a balanced mix of experienced campaigners and emerging talent. Goalkeeping duties will be handled by Panthoi Chanu Elangbam , Ribansi Jamu , and Shreya Hooda , while the defensive line includes dependable names such as Astam Oraon , Sarita Yumnam , and Ranjana Chanu Sorokhaibam .

India’s midfield will rely on the creativity and energy of players like Sangita Basfore, Sanfida Nongrum, and Priyangka Devi Naorem, while the attacking unit features exciting forwards including Grace Dangmei, Pyari Xaxa, Soumya Guguloth, and Karishma Shirvoikar alongside Manisha Kalyan.

With home conditions, strong squad depth, and growing confidence in women’s football across the country, India will look to make a powerful statement and continue their dominance in South Asian football.