Will Defending Champs India Shine in Itanagar for the SAFF U19 Championship?
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Synopsis
As the India U19 men's team gears up for the SAFF U19 Championship 2025 in Itanagar, excitement builds for their historic tournament. Will they defend their title successfully amidst tough competition? Discover the team dynamics and the significance of this event for Arunachal Pradesh's sporting landscape.
Key Takeaways
- India's U19 team aims to defend their championship title.
- First international tournament hosted in Arunachal Pradesh.
- Match dates are set from May 9 to 18.
- India's group includes Nepal and Sri Lanka.
- Top two teams from each group will reach the semifinals.
Itanagar, April 30 (NationPress) The India U19 men's team has officially landed in Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, on Wednesday, in preparation for the SAFF U19 Championship 2025, set to unfold from May 9 to 18 at the Golden Jubilee Stadium in Yupia. Kipa Ajay, Treasurer of AIFF, alongside the Honorary Secretary of the Arunachal Pradesh Football Association, greeted the 25-member squad, under the guidance of coach Bibiano Fernandes, at the Donyi Polo Airport.
The Blue Colts had been diligently training at the Padukone-Dravid Centre for Sports Excellence in Bengaluru before their arrival in the Land of the Dawn-Lit Mountains. This event marks a significant milestone in the sporting landscape of Arunachal Pradesh, being the first time the state will host an international football tournament.
In the group stages, India will compete against Nepal and Sri Lanka in Group B. Meanwhile, Maldives, Bhutan, and Bangladesh are positioned in Group A. Teams were seeded into three pots for the draw, based on the latest FIFA Men's Rankings updated in December 2024. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semifinals, scheduled for May 16, with the final match taking place on May 18.
As the defending champions, India triumphed over Pakistan with a score of 3-0 in the final of the 2023 edition held in Kathmandu. In the subsequent year, the tournament shifted to the U20 category, where India faced a heart-wrenching loss to Bangladesh in the semifinals via penalties.
This occasion will mark the fourth time India has hosted an age-group SAFF competition, following the U20 men's in Bhubaneswar 2022, U18 women's in Jamshedpur 2022, and U15 men's in Kalyani 2019, as reported by the All-India Football Federation (AIFF).
India's 25-member squad for the SAFF U19 Championship 2025 includes:
Goalkeepers: Aarush Hari, Aheibam Suraj Singh, Rohit.
Defenders: Ashik Adhikari, Takhellambam Bungson Singh, Jodric Abranches, Malemngamba Singh Thokchom, Mohammed Kaif, Mukul Panwar, Sumit Sharma Brahmacharimayum, Sohum Utreja, Roshan Singh Thangjam.
Midfielders: Danny Meitei Laishram, Gurnaj Singh Grewal, Md Arbash, Ningthoukhongjam Rishi Singh, Daniyal Makakmayum, Singamayum Shami.
Forwards: Ahongshangbam Samson, Bharat Lairenjam, Chaphamayum Rohen Singh, Omang Dodum, Prashan Jajo, Hemneichung Lunkim, Yohaan Benjamin.
Point of View
It's crucial to highlight the significance of the India U19 men's team's participation in the SAFF U19 Championship. This event not only showcases the talent of our young athletes but also promotes football in Arunachal Pradesh, fostering local engagement and pride in hosting an international tournament. The nation stands united in support of our team.
NationPress
21/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the SAFF U19 Championship 2025 start?
The SAFF U19 Championship 2025 is scheduled to take place from May 9 to 18.
Where will the matches be held?
The matches will be held at the Golden Jubilee Stadium in Yupia, Arunachal Pradesh.
Who is the coach of the India U19 men's team?
The coach of the India U19 men's team is Bibiano Fernandes.
Which teams are in India's group?
India is in Group B alongside Nepal and Sri Lanka.
What is the historical significance of this tournament for Arunachal Pradesh?
This tournament marks the first time Arunachal Pradesh is hosting an international football event.
