Can India entertain the crowd in the SAFF U19 Championship final against Bangladesh?

Yupia (Arunachal Pradesh), May 17 (NationPress) In pursuit of claiming their record-extending 10th SAFF age-group men's tournament, India is set to face Bangladesh in the final of the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) U19 Championship 2025, scheduled for Sunday at the Golden Jubilee Stadium. Head coach Bibiano Fernandes is optimistic about his team's ability to entertain the audience.

India has previously triumphed in the U15, U16, and U17 tournaments twice each, alongside a single victory in the U18, U19, and U20 categories. Fernandes, who has secured three titles, is on the hunt for his fourth on Sunday. The Blue Colts are no strangers to Bangladesh.

The two teams have clashed in four SAFF men's age-group finals, with India emerging victorious in all instances, including last year's SAFF U17 final where they won 2-0, thanks to goals from Mohammed Arbash and Mohammed Kaif, both of whom are now part of the U19 roster.

India has displayed remarkable prowess in front of an enthusiastic crowd in Arunachal Pradesh, achieving victories of 8-0 and 4-0 against Sri Lanka and Nepal, respectively, during the group stage, followed by a 3-0 win over the Maldives in the semifinals.

Fernandes and team captain Singamayum Shami expressed their admiration for the local supporters who have been turning out in increasing numbers for every match, notably during the semi-final amidst heavy rain.

"Yesterday, we witnessed a tremendous turnout of fans despite the torrential rain, with no one leaving their seats until the final whistle. That was truly inspiring. We invite all our fans to join us tomorrow; we promise to deliver our utmost performance on the pitch and ensure an exhilarating game, just like our previous matches," stated Fernandes.

Midfielder Shami, who was awarded the player of the match against the Maldives, remarked, "The people of Arunachal have an immense passion for football. We are thrilled to see such support from the community. Playing in front of them makes us proud, and we are prepared to give our all in the final."

Bangladesh secured a 2-1 victory over Nepal in the semifinal. After a tense 74 minutes, Ashikur Rahman scored the opener with a header from a corner, followed by a goal from captain Nazmul Huda Faysal. Although Nepal managed to reduce the deficit, Bangladesh held firm for the win.

"We haven't faced Bangladesh in this tournament but are aware of their strengths. They have displayed commendable resilience, especially against Nepal, and we hold them in high regard. We will prepare diligently to give our best in the finals," remarked Fernandes.

Bangladesh head coach Golam Robbani Choton stated, "Our players have been performing well throughout the tournament, gaining valuable experience, and they are now confident in their skills. We are ready for the final."

Captain Faysal added, "Finals always carry a unique thrill. It’s the tournament's last match, and both teams are eager to win. We aim to bring the trophy back home. We trust each player from the initial match to the semi-finals, and that confidence will carry us into the final. While facing India is a different challenge, we respect their abilities. Our focus is on achieving our goals with full commitment."

Faysal also acknowledged the APFA, AIFF, and SAFF for providing an excellent platform for budding football talents in South Asia during the SAFF U19 Championship, marking the first international football tournament hosted in Arunachal Pradesh.

"I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the APFA, AIFF, and SAFF for bringing us to this beautiful new venue. We have thoroughly enjoyed our time here, from the accommodations to the playing fields, and the support has been invaluable," expressed Faysal.