Coach Bibiano’s side dismantles opponents with Danny smashing hattrick
Arunachal Pradesh: India kicked off their SAFF U-19 Championship title defence in spectacular fashion with a commanding 8-0 victory against Sri Lanka in their Group B opener at the Golden Jubilee Stadium on Friday.
The dominant display was capped by a superb hat-trick from Danny Meitei (26’, 31’, 50’) — the tournament’s first — while Prashan Jajo (17’, 62’) bagged a brace in a comprehensive all-round performance.
Md Arbash (40’), Omang Dodum (48’), and captain Singamayum Shami (81’) scored one each.
The hosts, cheered on by a raucous home crowd, showed their intent from the very first whistle. With slick passing, intelligent movement, and constant pressure, India dominated every inch of the pitch and left Sri Lanka chasing shadows.
India’s midfield, led by a disciplined and composed unit, dictated the tempo with sharp distribution, while their forwards tore through Sri Lanka’s disorganised backline.
On the wings, Arbash and Rohen Singh were especially threatening, generating wave after wave of attacks.