SAFF Women’s Club Championship APF, East Bengal set for title decider

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Dec. 20: The maiden SAFF Women’s Club Championship crown is up for grabs as Nepal’s APF FC lock horns with India’s East Bengal in the final at Dasharath Stadium on Saturday.

Both sides have marched unbeaten to the showpiece, keeping clean sheets throughout their campaign. 

East Bengal topped the group with three wins and a draw, while hosts APF booked their place with two victories and two stalemates. Their head‑to‑head in the league stage ended in a cagey goalless draw. 

East Bengal have been prolific in front of goal, netting 13 times, whereas APF have managed just five strikes.

The final kicks off at 5 pm, with both camps bullish about their chances. APF, playing back‑to‑back after Wednesday’s stalemate, are banking on home advantage and vocal support from the stands.

APF head coach Jibesh Pandey said his side had ironed out flaws during the short turnaround: “We’ve worked on our weaknesses and trained accordingly. East Bengal are a quality outfit, but we’ll play our game and push for the silverware.”

Skipper Anita Basnet echoed the confidence, “We’re fully prepared for the final. We’re not just representing the club but the nation, and we’re excited to fight for our first title.”

East Bengal boss Anthony Samson Andrews insisted his team would not repeat past errors. “It’s a nothing‑to‑lose clash for both sides. We’ll give our best. APF are strong, but we’ll be sharper than in the last outing.”

Captain Shilky Devi Hemam predicted a tight contest in the final. “It will be highly competitive. We’ll play without pressure, though APF will have the edge with home support.”