Colombo, September 27 – India’s U-17 football team showed grit, composure, and resilience as they edged Bangladesh 4–1 on penalties after a tense 2–2 draw in regulation time, lifting their seventh SAFF U-17 Championship trophy at the Racecourse International Stadium, Colombo.
A Flying Start for India
India began brightly, asserting their dominance right from kick-off. In just the 4th minute, Dallalmuon Gangte pounced on a loose clearance inside the box and calmly slotted the ball past the Bangladeshi goalkeeper. The early strike gave India momentum, with their frontline constantly threatening through clever link-up play and overlapping runs.
Despite India’s control, Bangladesh clawed their way back. In the 24th minute, a corner led to chaos inside the Indian box, and Md Manik headed home to bring the scores level.
The response from the Blue Colts was swift. In the 38th minute, Azlaan Shah KH capitalised on another defensive lapse, tapping home after Wangkheirakpam Gunleiba’s incisive play down the left. India went into halftime leading 2–1, looking confident and in control.
Bangladesh’s Late Drama
The second half saw a more determined Bangladesh side. They pressed higher, tested India’s defence with long balls, and pushed the tempo. India’s backline, marshalled with discipline, resisted the pressure well and looked set to hold on for a narrow win.
But football had other plans. In stoppage time (97th minute), Bangladesh found a dramatic equaliser. Ihsan Habib Riduan rose highest during a corner and headed home, sparking wild celebrations among the Bangladeshi fans. The last-gasp goal sent the match to penalties, setting up a nerve-wracking finish.
Penalty Shootout: Calmness Under Pressure
In the shootout, India’s youngsters showcased remarkable composure:
Dallalmuon Gangte, Korou Meitei Konthoujam, and Indra Rana Magar all converted with confidence.
Shubham Poonia sealed the deal with India’s fourth, sparking jubilant celebrations.
On the other side, Bangladesh faltered under pressure. Md Ikramul Islam struck the crossbar, while Md Azam Khan was denied by India’s goalkeeper Manashjyoti Baruah. Only Md Manik found the net, as India clinched the shootout 4–1.
Significance of the Victory
This triumph marks India’s seventh SAFF U-17 Championship title, underlining their dominance in South Asian youth football. More importantly, the win reflects the mental strength of this young side under coach Bibiano Fernandes, who has consistently nurtured India’s next generation of stars.
For Bangladesh, the heartbreak was real, but their spirited comeback and late equaliser showed the growing potential of their youth program.
Key Takeaways
Gangte and Azlaan Shah were crucial with their first-half strikes.
Gunleiba’s runs down the left repeatedly troubled Bangladesh and created decisive chances.
Goalkeeper Baruah’s penalty save proved pivotal in the shootout.
India’s ability to stay calm after conceding a stoppage-time equaliser was the defining factor.
Final Word
The SAFF U-17 Championship final lived up to its billing – full of drama, tension, and quality. India’s youngsters proved why they remain the team to beat in the region, while Bangladesh walked away with pride despite the heartbreak.
With this title, the Blue Colts not only added another trophy to India’s cabinet but also sent a strong message about the bright future of Indian football.
