Indian football veteran Dangmei Grace brought the curtain down on a distinguished international career after India defeated Bangladesh in the SAFF Women’s Championship 2026 final on Saturday, ending her journey with the national team in the best possible fashion.
One of the most respected figures in Indian women’s football, Grace announced her retirement after helping India secure its third SAFF Women’s Championship title. The triumph marked a fitting conclusion to a career that spanned more than a decade and saw her become one of the country’s most dependable performers on the international stage.
Grace, who made her senior debut for India in 2013, represented the national team 95 times and became a key figure in the squad over the years. Although she did not start in the championship final against Bangladesh, the experienced midfielder entered the match as a substitute and later wore the captain’s armband. In a symbolic moment, she was handed the honour of lifting the trophy during the prize distribution ceremony, drawing an emotional close to her international career.
Reflecting on the occasion, Grace admitted it was difficult to walk away from a sport that has defined much of her life.
“It was very emotional towards the end of the game, and it is really hard to say goodbye to something I love the most,” she said after the match.
Looking back on her journey, she expressed gratitude to her teammates and the All India Football Federation for their support throughout her career.
“Going forward in my life and football, I have learnt many things. Thanks to the AIFF, and I am happy to have enjoyed this tournament success with my team, who promised me they would hand this trophy to me. I’m very happy,” Grace said in a video shared by Indian Football on social media.
Over the course of her illustrious career, Grace represented several leading clubs in Indian women’s football, including KRYPHSA, Sethu FC, Gokulam Kerala and Sribhumi. Her impact, however, extended beyond Indian football.
In 2022, she signed with Uzbek Women’s League side FC Nasaf Karshi on a season-long contract. Grace enjoyed immediate success overseas, helping the club win both the league title and the domestic cup. She also contributed four goals in 14 league appearances during a memorable campaign.
As Grace steps away from international football, she leaves behind a legacy of consistency, leadership and dedication. Her retirement marks the end of an era for Indian women’s football, but her contributions to the growth of the game will continue to inspire future generations of players.
