A key change has reshaped the upcoming SAFF Women’s Championship, with Pakistan opting out of the regional tournament just weeks before kickoff. The development alters the competition format and comes as a setback for Pakistan’s women’s football setup, which has been striving for more international exposure.
Tournament to proceed with revised line-up
The championship, organised by the South Asian Football Federation, will now feature six teams instead of seven. Matches are scheduled to be held at Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium from May 25 to June 6.
Following the withdrawal, the participating teams have been divided into two groups. Group A includes Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bhutan, while Group B features hosts India, defending champions Bangladesh and the Maldives.
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Impact on Pakistan and regional football
Pakistan’s exit is seen as a blow to its women’s football programme, which has faced administrative hurdles and limited match opportunities in recent years. Participation in regional tournaments like this is often crucial for gaining experience and improving competitiveness. This is not an isolated instance either. Pakistan has withdrawn from multiple international sporting events in the recent past, raising concerns about consistency in its sporting engagements.
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India’s strong record and expectations
India's women’s national football team enters the tournament as the most successful side in its history, having won five titles. However, recent editions have seen the Bangladesh women’s national football team emerge as a dominant force, winning the last two championships. With home advantage and a competitive field still in place, the focus now shifts to the action on the pitch. Despite Pakistan’s absence, the tournament remains an important platform for women’s football in South Asia, offering teams a chance to build momentum and regional rivalry.
