New Delhi, March 28 (NationPress) In a commanding display, the India U23 men's national team demolished Bhutan with a scoreline of 5-0 during the U23 Tri-Nation Championship 2026, held at the Golden Jubilee Stadium in Yupia, Arunachal Pradesh, on Saturday.

Suhail Ahmad Bhat found the back of the net twice (51', 81'), while Ricky Meetei Haobam (44'), Tomba Singh Haobam (79'), and Muhammed Ajsal (85') each contributed one goal.

This triumph has propelled India to the top of the table in the U23 Tri-Nation Championship, where they are now tied on points (three) with Tajikistan, who had earlier defeated Bhutan 1-0 this week.

The India U23 squad, under the guidance of coach Naushad Moosa, aggressively pursued Bhutan from the outset, despite missing several early scoring opportunities. It wasn't until the 23rd minute that they made a significant attempt on goal.

Adison Singh Thokchom charged down the right wing, delivering a cross that swerved in the air, but fortunately for Bhutan's goalkeeper Locho Nima, it struck the crossbar and went out.

Maintaining the pressure, India finally took the lead just before halftime, thanks to Ricky, who fired from outside the box, placing the ball into the bottom corner past the keeper.

Boosted by this goal, the home team came out firing in the second half and quickly increased their lead within six minutes of play. Adison broke into the Bhutan box, setting up Suhail, who expertly slotted the ball past the keeper.

India was determined to extend their lead and came close to scoring several more times. In the 71st minute, Ajsal received a through ball but was thwarted by Bhutan defender Gayden Rinchen, who cleared the danger off the line.

A few minutes later, Bhutan's captain Pema Zangpo executed a crucial goalline clearance when Huidrom Thoi Singh was played through after an intricate free-kick, firing at the goal as the ball slipped through the goalkeeper's legs before Zangpo intervened.

The scoring avalanche truly began in the 79th minute when substitute Tomba Singh Haobam unleashed a powerful shot from outside the box into the bottom corner, marking India's third goal. Shortly after, Suhail broke into the box and added a fourth goal with a well-placed shot.

Suhail then turned provider for India's fifth goal, chipping a pass to Ajsal, who maneuvered between the defenders, took a touch inside the box, and scored.

As the match drew to a close, the India U23s surged to the top of the standings. They will face Tajikistan in the decisive match on March 31 at the Golden Jubilee Stadium at 19:00 IST.

To clinch the tournament, the Blue Colts only need a draw, while Tajikistan must secure a win.