Colombo: The India U-17 men’s football team has won the SAFF Under-17 Championship title. They defeated Bangladesh in an exciting final held in Colombo on Saturday. Both teams ended regular and extra time with a score of 2-2, leading to a penalty shootout. India triumphed 4-1 in the shootout, marking their seventh SAFF Under-17 title.
India took the lead in the fourth minute with a goal from Dalalmun Gangte. Although Bangladesh equalized with a goal from Mohammad Manik, India regained the lead just before halftime thanks to Aslan Shah Khan. Despite missing several chances to seal the game, Bangladesh made it dramatic by leveling the score in the 97th minute with a goal from Ihsan Habib Ridwan.
In the penalty shootout, the young “Blue Colts” showed composure. Gangte, Koro Meitay Konthoujam, Indra Ran Magar, and Shubham Puniya all scored from the spot. Goalkeeper Manasjyoti Baruwa saved one attempt from Bangladesh, while another hit the crossbar, securing India’s victory. Coach Bibiano Fernandes achieved his fifth SAFF title overall and his second title in five months following the Under-19 victory earlier this year.