They suffer penalty heartbreak as Bangladesh clinch SAFF U-20 title
Panaji: India’s SAFF U-20 Championship dream ended in heartbreak as they went down 3-4 on penalties to Bangladesh after a goalless, hard-fought final at Male, Maldives on Friday evening.
The Blue Colts began with intent, nearly striking early when Md Abrash’s header drifted agonisingly wide inside the opening minutes. But as the half wore on, Bangladesh settled into rhythm, stretching the Indian backline with width and set-piece threats, and coming closest through Mithu Chowdhury’s header that skimmed past the post.
India gradually grew into the contest, finding better control and composure, but clear chances remained at a premium in a tightly contested midfield battle. Despite Bangladesh edging phases of the first half, India held firm to keep the scores level at the break.
The second half mirrored the first—tense, tactical, and cagey. India pushed for a breakthrough, with Omang Dodum trying his luck from distance and the attack showing more urgency as the clock ticked down. The best opportunity arrived late on when Vishal Yadav blazed over from inside the box after a teasing delivery, a chance that could have sealed the title.
With neither side able to find the decisive moment, the final was pushed into penalties. India’s hopes faltered in the shootout as two missed spot-kicks proved costly, allowing Bangladesh to hold their nerve and clinch the title.
With neither side able to find the decisive moment, the final was pushed into penalties and that’s where it slipped away for India.
Rishi Singh saw his effort saved, while Omang Dodum missed, as Md Abrash, Ahongshangbam Samson and Vishal Yadav converted their spot-kicks. Bangladesh, meanwhile, scored through Md Mursed Ali, Chandon Roy, Md Abdul Riyad Fahim and Ronan Sullivan, with only Samuel Raksam missing.
