Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh – The Indian U-19 football team defeated a Bangladeshi team 4-3 in a penalty shootout after the game ended 1-1 in regulation time, securing their 7th SAFF U-19 Championship 2025 title in an exciting final at the Golden Jubilee Stadium. With grit, passion, and steely nerves, the young Blue Colts, under the leadership of coach Bibiano Fernandes, stepped up to the challenge in an electrifying atmosphere.
Early Lead
From the very first whistle, India signaled their intent. Just two minutes into the game, captain Singamayum Shami stunned the crowd with a free-kick from over 30 yards out. Spotting the Bangladeshi goalkeeper slightly out of position, Shami curled a thunderous shot that Mahin barely got a hand to—only for the ball to smash into the net.
The forward-moving Indian team continued to press hard, pass cleanly, and play wing dominance. With an incredible solo run in the 16th minute, Omang Dodum came very close to adding a second goal. However, Bangladesh’s goalkeeper Md Ismail Hossain Mahin made a crucial save to keep his side in the match.
Bangladesh fights back
Despite the early shock, Bangladesh gradually regained composure. Their midfield began disrupting India’s rhythm, cutting off supply lines and forcing errors. By halftime, the momentum had slightly shifted, with Bangladesh creating pressure through set-pieces and corners.
Their persistence paid off in the 61st minute. A chaotic scramble following a corner saw the ball fall kindly for Md Joy Ahamed, who made no mistake and rifled it past Indian keeper Suraj Singh Aheibam. It was a gut-punch for India—their first conceded goal in the tournament—and it set up a tense final half-hour.
Tense Finale and a Battle of Nerves
The rest of the match turned into a tactical and physical battle. Both sides probed for weaknesses, but chances were few. India’s quick counters and Bangladesh’s compact defense cancelled each other out. With no breakthrough by full-time, the fate of the championship would be decided in a penalty shootout—a true test of composure under pressure.
The shootout started poorly for India as Rohen Singh’s soft attempt was saved by Mahin, silencing the stadium. Bangladesh appeared to have the upper hand, but Nazmul Huda Faysal’s high effort over the bar gave India hope.
India’s players regrouped and converted their remaining kicks. Then came the moment of truth: Suraj Singh Aheibam, calm and alert, guessed correctly and made a crucial save against Salahuddin Sahed, diving low to his left. With the match hanging in balance, captain Shami stepped up for the final spot-kick. He remained composed under pressure and slotted it home with authority—sealing a dramatic and unforgettable victory for India.
First-Ever SAFF in Arunachal
This edition of the SAFF U-19 Championship 2025 was historic in more ways than one. It marked the first time India hosted the tournament, and Arunachal Pradesh was given the honor. Over 12,000 passionate fans packed the stands during the final, showcasing the region’s enthusiasm for football and sports in general.
The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, KT Parnaik, who attended the closing ceremony, expressed immense pride in the state’s successful hosting of an international event.
“Arunachal Pradesh is emerging as a sporting powerhouse, and our youth are beginning to shine on the global stage,” he said. “This tournament will inspire a generation of footballers across the state.”
He also highlighted the event’s role in strengthening regional cooperation, with participation from Bhutan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Maldives, Sri Lanka, and India.
Event Earns Organizers’ Praise
SAFF General Secretary Purushottam Kattel extended his gratitude to the Arunachal Pradesh Government, Arunachal Pradesh Football Association, and the All India Football Federation (AIFF) for their tireless efforts.
“The passion for football in this region is truly inspiring,” said Kattel. “We believe fans thoroughly enjoyed each match, and we’re proud of how the event turned out.”
AIFF Treasurer Kipa Ajay also praised the hosting state:
“It’s a proud moment for Arunachal to have successfully organized such a prestigious event. It’s a testament to the leadership and support of our Chief Minister, Pema Khandu.”
The championship had kicked off on May 9, inaugurated by CM Khandu in the presence of dignitaries including Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, Sports Minister Kento Jini, and others.
India’s Road to the Championship
- Group Stage:
- India 8-0 Sri Lanka
- India 4-0 Nepal
- Semifinal:
- India 3-0 Maldives
- Final:
- India 1(4) – 1(3) Bangladesh
India not only won the SAFF U-19 championship 2025 but also signaled the rise of a promising new generation of footballers.
