India launched its SAFF U-19 Championship title defence with an emphatic statement, thrashing Sri Lanka 8-0 in their Group B opener at the Golden Jubilee Stadium on Friday. A relentless display of attacking football saw Danny Meitei bag the tournament’s first hat-trick, supported by braces and single strikes from an inspired Indian lineup.
India’s intent was clear from the outset, dominating possession and territory before Prashan Jajo opened the scoring in the 17th minute. The young winger burst down the left flank, outpaced his defender, and rifled a shot past Sri Lankan keeper Nadal Aaron Senapala from a tight angle.
Just nine minutes later, Omang Dodum pounced on a misplaced backpass and delivered a perfect cross for Danny Meitei, who nodded it home to double India’s lead. The Indian No. 9 wasn’t done yet — in the 31st minute, Danny unleashed a thunderous left-footed shot from over 20 yards out, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance.
India’s fourth came moments before halftime, as Danny turned provider, floating a cross into the box. Jajo smartly headed it into the path of Md Arbash, who calmly slotted it in to cap a flawless first half for the defending champions.
The second half saw no drop in intensity. Just three minutes after the restart, local hero Omang Dodum got his name on the scoresheet with a dazzling piece of skill, nutmegging Senapala after a silky solo run. The goal was followed swiftly by Danny’s third, as he took full advantage of a defensive error by Omith Edirisinghe to complete a memorable hat-trick.
India continued to pile on the misery for their southern neighbours. In the 62nd minute, a fumbled clearance by Senapala off a routine header from captain Singamayum Shami allowed Jajo to bag his second of the evening. The final goal came in the 81st minute, courtesy of Shami himself, who weaved through two defenders before slotting home from an acute angle.
The win marks a flying start to India’s title defence and sends a strong message to their regional rivals. With fluid attacking movements and clinical finishing, India demonstrated why they remain firm favourites for the championship.
India will look to carry this momentum forward as they eye a spot in the knockout rounds, while Sri Lanka will need to regroup quickly after a humbling start.
