Shillong, Oct 1: The defending champions India have once again been crowned champion of the South Asia Football Federation (SAFF) Under-17 Football tournament after beating Bangladesh in the final at the Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu, Bhutan on Monday.

The first half was a tactical battle, with both sides displaying solid defense and intense midfield skirmishes. India dominated possession, but Bangladesh, employing a Mourinho style “park the bus” strategy, made it almost impossible for India to penetrate their defense.

The half ended with neither team able to break the deadlock, setting up a nail-biting second half.

India, however, found their breakthrough in the 58th minute, when Mohammed Kaif leaped into the air and connected a powerful header to send the ball soaring into the back of the net, putting India 1-0 ahead. As Bangladesh struggled to shift from defense to attack, their few chances were saved by Indian goalkeeper Aheibam Suraj Singh, who held firm to keep the clean sheet intact.

Meghalaya boy, Manbhakupur Malngiang came from the bench in the 68’ minutes to replace Ahongshangbam Samson as to put more pressure forward.

The tension ramped up as the game approached its final whistle, but any hope Bangladesh had of a late equalizer was dashed when Mohammed Arbash delivered a stunning left-footed strike in the 95th minute. His goal sealed the deal for India, leaving Bangladesh with no time to mount a comeback.

While Bangladesh’s ultra-defensive tactics frustrated India throughout much of the match, it was clear that the Indian side was in control, dominating possession and dictating the pace of play. Time and again, India’s efforts were thwarted by a wall of Bangladeshi defenders, but the patience and skill of the Indian team ultimately paid off.

As the final whistle blew, India celebrated their hard-earned victory, lifting the trophy once again as champions of South Asia, a testament to their dominance in the region.

India vs Bangladesh, SAFF U17 Championship 2024 final squads

India SAFF U17 Championship 2024 squad

Goalkeepers: Aheibam Suraj Singh, Nandan Roy, Rohit

Defenders: Brahmacharimayum Sumit Sharma, Chingtham Renin Singh, Jodric Abranches, Karish Soram, Mohammed Kaif, Usham Thoungamba Singh, Yaipharemba Chingakham

Midfielders: Abdul Salha Sheergojri, Ahongshangbam Samson, Banlamkupar Rynjah, Kh Azlaan Khan, Levis Zangminlun, Mahmad Sami, Manbhakupar Malngiang, Md Arbash, Ngamgouhou Mate, Ningthoukhongjam Rishi Singh, Vishal Yadav

Forwards: Bharat Lairenjam, Hemneichung Lunkim.

Md Arbash of India was named the Player of the Tournament. Indian Goalkeeper, Aheibam Suraj Singh was named the Goalkeeper of the Tournament.

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