Daijiworld Media Network - Yupia
Yupia, May 19: In a pulsating finale that delivered high drama, emotional swings, and relentless intensity, India U19s held their nerve to defeat Bangladesh 4-3 on penalties and successfully defend their SAFF U19 Championship crown at the Golden Jubilee Stadium on Sunday.
The contest, which ended 1-1 in regulation time, had all the ingredients of a classic — an early lead, a spirited comeback, missed opportunities, and a penalty shootout that tested the mental fortitude of both sides.
India made a lightning-fast start. Just two minutes in, captain Singamayum Shami lit up the stadium with a moment of brilliance. Spotting Bangladesh’s keeper slightly off his line from over 30 yards out, Shami unleashed a curling free-kick that beat the outstretched hands of Md Ismail Hossain Mahin, giving India a dream start.
With momentum on their side, the Blue Colts dominated early proceedings, carving out chances with crisp passing and dangerous runs down the flanks. In the 16th minute, Omang Dodum weaved through the Bangladesh defence on a dazzling solo run but was denied a goal by a sharp save from Mahin.
However, as the minutes ticked by, Bangladesh found their rhythm. They tightened up defensively, disrupted India’s passing flow, and began asserting themselves, particularly through set-pieces. Their persistence paid off in the 61st minute. A chaotic corner led to a scramble in India’s box, and Md Joy Ahamed capitalized on the loose ball, blasting it into the net to level the scores — and hand India their first goal conceded in the tournament.
The remainder of the match turned gritty and fiercely competitive, with both sides pushing for a winner but lacking a decisive edge in the final third. With no breakthrough in regulation time, the championship was to be decided by penalties.
The shootout was a rollercoaster. India faltered early when Rohen Singh’s weak effort was saved, handing Bangladesh the advantage. The crowd hushed. But fate shifted again when Bangladesh captain Nazmul Huda Faysal sent his shot sailing over the crossbar.
India capitalized on the reprieve. Calm under pressure, the next set of Indian penalty takers converted with precision. Then came Suraj Singh Aheibam’s moment — diving low to his left, he saved Salahuddin Sahed’s effort, putting India on the brink of victory.
Captain Shami, who had set the tone early in the match, stepped up for the final kick. With ice in his veins, he buried the ball into the net, sealing the title for India and igniting wild celebrations on the pitch and in the stands.
This thrilling final not only reaffirmed India’s dominance at the U19 level in South Asia but also highlighted the composure and resilience of a team that rose to every challenge thrown their way.