Team Herald
sports@herald-goa.com
PANJIM: The Goa Football Association is proud to announce that two of Goa’s rising stars, Pearl Fernandes and Valaina Jada Fernandes, have been selected in the 23-member India U-17 Women’s National Team squad for the upcoming SAFF U-17 Women’s Championship 2025 to be held in Thimphu, Bhutan, from August 20 to 31.
The young Goan forwards will don the India colours as the team, led by Head Coach Joakim Aleandersson, begins its campaign against Nepal on August 20. India will then take on Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal once again before facing Bangladesh in their final league match on August 31. All fixtures will be held at the Changlimithang Stadium, Thimphu.
Their inclusion is a proud moment for Goa football, reflecting the steady progress of talented girls emerging from the State to represent India at the highest level.
The SAFF U-17 Women’s Championship 2025 will be played in a round-robin format, with the top two teams advancing to the final to decide the champions.
The Goa Football Association extends its best wishes to Pearl and Valaina as they carry the Goan spirit onto the international stage.