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India’s U20 men’s team lost the final of the SAFF U20 Championship 2026
Male (Maldives), April 4, 2026:
India’s U20 men’s team lost the final of the SAFF U20 Championship 2026 after Bangladesh defeated India 4-3 in a penalty shootout at the National Stadium in Male on Friday. The match ended 0-0 in regulation time as both teams maintained a cautious approach.
Bangladesh converted key penalties through Md Mursed Ali, Chandon Roy and Md Yousuf Ali. Although Samuel Raksam struck the crossbar, striker Ronan Sullivan scored the decisive goal. For India, Md Arbash, Samson Ahongshangbam and Vishal Yadav found the net, but Rishi Singh Ningthoukhongjam missed his attempt, and Omang Dodum sent his shot over the crossbar.
Both sides played with defensive discipline throughout the match. Bangladesh used the flanks to create pressure, but India’s defence remained organised and restricted clear chances. India struggled in attack and failed to create consistent opportunities in the final third.
In the first half, Yaipharemba Chingakham had a chance after a defensive lapse, but a defender blocked his effort. The second half followed a similar pattern, with play largely confined to midfield and limited scoring opportunities.
India came close in the closing stages when Rishi Singh Ningthoukhongjam delivered a low cross, but Vishal Yadav could not reach the ball in time. Bangladesh nearly secured victory in stoppage time, but goalkeeper Suraj Singh Aheibam cleared the danger to push the game into penalties.
Despite the defeat, Omang Dodum earned the Most Valuable Player award and finished as joint top scorer with three goals.
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