In a gripping finale, India U19s defended their SAFF U19 Championship title with a 4-3 win on penalties over Bangladesh after a 1-1 draw in regulation time at the Golden Jubilee Stadium on Sunday.
The defending champions burst out of the gates with early intensity. Just two minutes into the match, captain Singamayum Shami delivered a moment of brilliance. Awarded a free-kick from over 30 yards, Shami spotted the Bangladeshi goalkeeper off his line and curled in a stunning strike. Though Mahin managed to get a glove on it, the sheer power behind the shot saw the ball nestle into the net, giving India a dream start.
India capitalised on their early momentum, with Omang Dodum nearly doubling the lead in the 16th minute after a dazzling solo run. However, Mahin came up big again, keeping Bangladesh alive. Despite dominating possession and piling on the pressure, India couldn’t find the elusive second goal.
Bangladesh, initially rattled, regrouped well. Their pressing game improved, and they began disrupting India’s rhythm. Gradually, the momentum shifted, and by halftime, Bangladesh had found their footing. Their persistence paid off in the 61st minute when a chaotic corner led to a goalmouth scramble. Md Joy Ahamed was quickest to react, slamming the loose ball past Suraj Singh Aheibam, ending India’s tournament-long clean sheet.
With the score level, both sides searched for a late winner in a scrappy, physical second half. But with defenses holding firm, the match headed into a tense penalty shootout.
India suffered an early scare when Rohen Singh’s weak second penalty was saved by Mahin, handing Bangladesh a slight edge. But the pressure of the occasion proved too much for Bangladesh skipper Nazmul Huda Faysal, who blazed his shot over the bar, swinging momentum back in India’s favour.
With renewed composure, India nailed its remaining spot-kicks. Goalkeeper Suraj Singh Aheibam, later named Best Goalkeeper of the tournament, made the decisive save from Salahuddin Sahed, diving low to his left. Then came the captain’s moment again — Shami stepped up for the final penalty and coolly slotted it home, triggering wild celebrations.
India not only retained their title but also swept the individual awards. Danny Meitei Laishram finished as the top scorer with five goals, while MD Arbash was named Most Valuable Player. India also received the Fair Play award, capping off a perfect campaign.
In a final that tested character and composure, India stood tall, reaffirming their dominance in the region’s youth football scene.
