Agencies
Maldives
India U20 football team will look to carry forward momentum when they face Bangladesh U20 football team in their final Group B fixture of the SAFF U20 Championship at the National Football Stadium, Maldives on Saturday. The encounter, kicking off at 4.15 p.m., will determine the group toppers, with India needing only a draw to finish first, while Bangladesh must
secure a win.
India head coach Mahesh Gawali reflected on the previous outing, stating, “It was a good match against Pakistan. We played better in the second half and controlled the game. In defence, we were organised and our goalkeeper was very good. But now we look ahead. Every team is strong. On the day, any team can beat anyone. We don’t take any team lightly.” Despite the comfortable result, India were tested in phases, particularly early on, where goalkeeper Suraj Singh Aheibam was called into action with key saves.
Bangladesh arrive on the back of a win over Pakistan and will be motivated to overturn their loss to India in the SAFF U19 Championship 2025 final. Head coach Mark Cox said, “We have been training for two weeks. The guys have bonded well and have a great understanding. However, we are always cautious because football has a nasty habit of taking you down when you are at an absolute high. India are always going to be a threat. But we will be prepared to face the best sides.”
The contest also features an attacking duel between India’s Omang Dodum and Bangladesh striker Ronan Sullivan, both on two goals. “I am very happy with the way I performed. I am grateful to the coaches and my teammates. Our goal against Bangladesh is simple: win three points and top the group. So, I am waiting for the next match,” Dodum said. Sullivan added, “It was a great win against Pakistan. In the next game, we want to beat India and win all matches
in the group.”
