India held their nerve in a dramatic penalty shootout to defeat Bangladesh 4-3 and successfully retain their SAFF U19 Championship title, after a gripping final ended 1-1 in regulation time at the Golden Jubilee Stadium on Sunday.
The final had everything—early drama, missed chances, a spirited fightback, and a heart-stopping finish. India got off to a flying start, taking the lead in just the second minute through captain Singamayum Shami. Awarded a free-kick from over 30 yards out, Shami spotted the Bangladesh goalkeeper slightly off his line and unleashed a curling strike that flew into the net despite a fingertip touch from Md Ismail Hossain Mahin.
Riding the momentum, India dominated the opening exchanges with sharp passing and incisive wing play. In the 16th minute, Omang Dodum came close to doubling the lead after slicing through the defence, but Mahin pulled off a crucial save to deny him.
Bangladesh, initially rattled, gradually settled into the match. They tightened their lines, disrupted India’s rhythm, and began pressing forward. By halftime, they were threatening more consistently—especially from set-pieces.
Their persistence paid off in the 61st minute. A chaotic corner sparked a scramble in the Indian box, and Md Joy Ahamed reacted quickest, slamming the ball past Suraj Singh Aheibam to level the score. It was the first goal India had conceded in the tournament.
Both teams pushed for a winner in the final half-hour, but the contest turned scrappy and physical. With neither side able to find the decisive goal, the championship was decided by penalties.
The shootout was tense. Rohen Singh’s tame second attempt gave Bangladesh the advantage as Mahin saved comfortably. The stadium fell into a hushed silence. But India refused to buckle. When Bangladesh captain Nazmul Huda Faysal sent his effort over the bar, the momentum swung back India’s way.
India converted their remaining spot-kicks with confidence, and Suraj Singh Aheibam made a crucial save, diving low to his left to deny Salahuddin Sahed.
It all came down to captain Shami, who had already led by example with a sensational early goal. Calm and composed, he stepped up and slotted the final penalty home, sealing victory and sending the crowd into raptures.
With this win, India not only held onto their crown but also reinforced their dominance at the regional level, showing grit, composure, and character in a high-pressure final.
IANS