India Crowned SAFF U19 Champions After Thrilling Penalty Shootout Victory Over Bangladesh
Yupia, Arunachal Pradesh | May 18, 2025 – In a thrilling final that kept fans on the edge of their seats, India U19 emerged victorious over Bangladesh U19 in the SAFF U19 Championship, winning 4-3 on penalties after the match ended 1-1 in regulation time at the Golden Jubilee Stadium.
The atmosphere was electric as the hosts got off to a dream start, scoring in just the second minute. Captain Singamayum Shami stunned the crowd with a spectacular 30-yard curling free-kick that beat Bangladesh goalkeeper Md Ismail Hossain Mahin, despite his fingertips grazing the ball.
India continued to dominate the early stages of the match and nearly doubled their lead in the 16th minute when Omang Dodum made a dazzling solo run, but Mahin executed a brave save to deny him. Unfortunately, those missed opportunities would later prove costly for the Blue Colts.
Bangladesh started the match on the back foot, and they gradually grew into the contest and began to gain control in midfield. Their persistence paid off in the 61st minute when Md Joy Ahamed capitalized on a goalmouth scramble from a corner to equalize, marking India’s first conceded goal of the tournament.
With both teams desperately searching for a winner, the match turned physical and tactical, but no clear chances emerged. As the final whistle blew, the stage was set for a penalty shootout filled with drama.
India faced an early setback when Rohen Singh’s penalty was saved. However, the momentum shifted when Bangladesh skipper Nazmul Huda Faysal blasted his shot over the crossbar. Under pressure, India’s players remained composed.
Goalkeeper Suraj Singh Aheibam, who would later be named the tournament’s Best Goalkeeper, made a stunning save to deny Salahuddin Sahed, giving India the crucial advantage.
Fittingly, it was captain Shami who stepped up for the final kick. Calm and composed, he found the back of the net, igniting wild celebrations in the stands and on the pitch.
India U19 Squad (Final): Suraj Singh Aheibam (GK), Jodric Abranches, Sumit Sharma Brahmacharimayum, Singamayum Shami (C), Omang Dodum (Hemneichung Lunkim 64’), Md Arbash, Chaphamayum Rohen Singh, Malemngamba Singh Thokchom, Danny Meitei Laishram (Rishi Singh 64’), Sohum Utreja, Prashan Jajo (Yohaan Benjamin 64’).
SAFF U19 Championship Awards:
– Highest Goal-scorer: Danny Meitei Laishram (5 goals), India
– Best Goalkeeper: Suraj Singh Aheibam, India
– Most Valuable Player: Md Arbash, India
– Fair Play Award: India
With this victory, India not only defended their title but also reaffirmed their dominance in South Asian youth football.
