Malé (Maldives), March 26 (NationPress) The Indian U20 men's football team commenced their SAFF U20 Championship 2026 campaign with an impressive 3-0 victory against Pakistan in their opening Group B match on Thursday. A standout performance from Omang Dodum, who scored twice in the second half, propelled the Blue Colts to a decisive win at the National Football Stadium in Malé, ensuring their advancement to the semifinals while knocking Pakistan out of the tournament.

Dodum found the back of the net in the 64th and 88th minutes, adding to an early goal from Vishal Yadav, who gave India a lead just three minutes into the match. This victory not only marks a strong start for India but also secures their semifinal berth. Following two consecutive defeats, Pakistan's hopes for progression are now over. The top position in Group B will be contested when India faces Bangladesh on Saturday.

India immediately showcased their attacking intent, creating a chance within two minutes. Vishal Yadav charged down the right wing, sending a threatening cross into the box for Omang Dodum, who was unable to score. However, in the third minute, Gurnaj Singh demonstrated excellent vision by delivering a perfectly timed through-ball into the box.

The breakthrough arrived shortly after. Recognizing Yadav’s run, Gurnaj Singh Grewal lofted a pass over the Pakistan defense. The winger skillfully controlled the ball and attempted a shot, which was blocked. Nonetheless, he quickly reacted to the rebound, finishing with his left foot at the near post to grant India an early lead.

This goal boosted India’s confidence, but Pakistan gradually found their footing and began to challenge the Indian defense. They came close to equalizing on two occasions, only to be thwarted by goalkeeper Suraj Singh Aheibam, who made several crucial saves.

In one instance, Khobaib Khan sent a ball towards Najeebullah, who managed to evade Roshan Singh Thangjam. As he prepared to shoot, Suraj quickly moved off his line to block the attempt. Shortly after, Najeebullah headed the ball to Khan, but the Pakistani attacker’s shot was again denied by the vigilant Indian goalkeeper.

Despite Pakistan creating multiple opportunities for an equalizer in the first half, the Indian defense and Suraj Aheibam stood firm, maintaining a clean sheet as Pakistan's missed chances proved costly.

In the second half, India increased their lead through a swift counter-attack. Samson Ahongshangbam advanced the ball from defense into the left channel before delivering a precise cross to Rishi Singh Ninthoukhongjam. Rishi laid it off for Dodum, who managed to head the ball into the net before goalkeeper Zulqurnain could intervene in the 64th minute.

With a two-goal advantage, India controlled the match's rhythm while Pakistan sought a path back into contention. The Indian defense remained organized and disciplined, restricting Pakistan’s opportunities.

India cemented their victory late in the match. In the 88th minute, Muhammad Junaid fouled Prashan Jajo in the penalty area, leading referee Virendha Rai to award a penalty. Dodum confidently converted the penalty with a powerful strike, completing his brace and ensuring the outcome was beyond doubt.

This commanding win not only provides India with vital momentum in the tournament but also sets them up for a crucial encounter against Bangladesh in their final Group B match, where a draw will guarantee them the top spot and a semifinal matchup against the Group A runners-up.

With this remarkable performance, the Indian team comfortably advanced to the knockout stages and will face Bangladesh on March 28 to wrap up their group-stage journey.