Goa to host SAFF Women’s Championship 2026 – A historic first for the State

Goa Khabar : Goa is set to create history by hosting the SAFF Women’s Championship 2026 for the first time, with the tournament confirmed to run from May 25 to June 7, 2026. The announcement was made at a press conference held at the Secretariat, Porvorim, attended by Sports Authority of Goa Executive Director Ajay Gaude, GFA President Dr Caitano Fernandes and members of the GFA Executive Committee. All matches will be played at the PJN Stadium, Fatorda, marking the first time Goa has hosted a SAFF Championship of any kind since the Men’s edition in 1999.

Six nations will compete for the title India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Maldives, Sri Lanka and Bhutan in what promises to be one of the most high-profile women’s football tournaments ever held on Goan soil. The championship carries added weight this year, with both India and Bangladesh having recently represented the region at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 in Australia, underlining the growing stature of women’s football across South Asia. Indian fans will have the opportunity to watch some of the country’s brightest stars in action, with Manisha Kalyan, Grace Dangmei and Sangita Basfore among those expected to feature.

The tournament will be played across five match days May 25, May 28, and May 31 for the group stage, followed by the semi-finals on June 4 and the final on June 7. Two matches will be played each day, with the first fixture kicking off at 4:00 PM and the second at 7:30 PM.

Speaking at the press conference, GFA President Dr Caitano Fernandes expressed his delight at bringing the championship to Goa. “This is a high-profile tournament India and Bangladesh have just returned from competing at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup in Australia and to have that quality of football here in Goa is something truly special. We are deeply grateful to SAFF, the All India Football Federation and the Government of Goa for their support in making this tournament possible.”

Sports Authority of Goa Executive Director Ajay Gaude echoed the sentiment, highlighting the significance of the occasion for the state. “Goa has always been proactive in hosting major sporting events, and the return of the SAFF Championship after 27 years is a moment of great pride for Goa and for India. The GFA has worked tremendously hard to bring this tournament back to our state and as the Sports Authority of Goa and the Government of Goa, we are fully committed to ensuring it is delivered to the highest standard. We are grateful to SAFF, the AIFF and the Government of India for their confidence in Goa as a host.”