How Did India Start Their SAFF U-19 Championship Campaign?
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Synopsis
India's U-19 team made a statement in their SAFF Championship opener, defeating Sri Lanka 8-0. With standout performances, including a hat-trick from Danny Meitei, the Blue Colts showcased their determination to defend their title. Meanwhile, Bangladesh and Maldives fought to a thrilling 2-2 draw. What does this mean for the tournament ahead?
Key Takeaways
- India's U-19 team showcased remarkable skill with an 8-0 win.
- Danny Meitei's hat-trick highlights his talent and potential.
- Strong teamwork and communication were evident throughout the match.
- India's victory sets a high bar for competitors in the tournament.
- Bangladesh and Maldives demonstrated resilience in their match.
Yupia (Arunachal Pradesh), May 9 (NationPress) India launched their campaign for the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) U-19 Championship title in stunning style, achieving an impressive 8-0 victory against Sri Lanka in their Group B opener at the Golden Jubilee Stadium on Friday.
The remarkable performance featured a fantastic hat-trick from Danny Meitei (26', 31', 50'), while Prashan Jajo (17', 62') added two goals to the tally in an all-encompassing display. Goals from Md Arbash (40'), Omang Dodum (48'), and captain Singamayum Shami (81') rounded off the scoreline.
India took the lead in the 17th minute when Jajo sprinted down the left, beating his defender and scoring from a tight angle. Just nine minutes later, a miscalculated back-pass from Sri Lanka enabled Dodum to deliver a precise cross to Danny, who executed a perfect header.
In the 31st minute, Danny found the net again, firing a powerful left-footed shot from 21 yards that zipped past the stranded Sri Lankan goalkeeper, Nadal Aaron Senapala. Before half-time, Danny set up Arbash with a clever assist, allowing him to tap in easily for India's fourth goal.
The second half mirrored the first's intensity, with Dodum scoring in the 48th minute after showcasing excellent footwork. Minutes later, Danny secured his hat-trick by taking advantage of a defensive blunder, finishing coolly to make it 6-0.
In the 62nd minute, Jajo scored his second after Senapala fumbled a simple header, allowing Jajo to convert effortlessly. The final goal was a highlight from Shami, who skillfully maneuvered past two defenders before scoring from a tight angle in the 81st minute.
This dominant victory sends a clear message that the Blue Colts are serious contenders to defend their SAFF U-19 title.
In another match, Bangladesh and Maldives played to an exhilarating 2-2 draw in the SAFF U-19 Championship 2025 opener, with contrasting halves. Bangladesh U-19 established a 2-0 lead in the first half, thanks to Nazmul Huda Faysal's 13th-minute goal and Md Rifat Kazi's strike just before the break.
However, the second half saw a remarkable comeback from Maldives, with Anoof Abdulla scoring in the 57th minute and Ethan Ibrahim Zaki equalizing in the 73rd minute, ending the match in a thrilling 2-2 draw.
Point of View
I believe this commanding victory by India not only reinforces their status as favorites in the SAFF U-19 Championship but also reflects the growing prowess of youth football in our country. We stand resolutely with our teams, celebrating their achievements and supporting their journey forward.
NationPress
20/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the match between India and Sri Lanka?
India won the match with a commanding score of 8-0 against Sri Lanka.
Who scored the most goals for India in the match?
Danny Meitei scored a hat-trick, netting three goals in the match.
What other teams participated in the SAFF U-19 Championship?
In addition to India and Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Maldives also competed in the opening matches.
What was the outcome of the match between Bangladesh and Maldives?
The match ended in a thrilling 2-2 draw.
Where was the SAFF U-19 Championship held?
The championship took place at the Golden Jubilee Stadium in Yupia, Arunachal Pradesh.
