India Advances to SAFF Championship Final After Thrilling Victory Over Bhutan

In an exciting match, India triumphed over Bhutan with a score of 2-1, securing their spot in the SAFF Championship final. P V Vishnu and Chinglensana Singh scored for India, while Bhutan's Tobden managed to pull one back. This match was notable for the introduction of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system in the tournament. India's U-23 reserve squad, led by coach Naushad Moosa, will face either Bangladesh or Pakistan in the final scheduled for November 17. Read on for more details about this thrilling encounter.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 14, 2026, 17:54 IST

India Secures Spot in SAFF Championship Final

Dhaka: The reigning champions, India, secured their place in the SAFF Championship final by defeating Bhutan 2-1 on Saturday. Goals from P V Vishnu and Chinglensana Singh propelled India to victory.

Vishnu opened the scoring early in the eighth minute, skillfully controlling a long diagonal pass before shifting to his right foot and sending the ball past the Bhutanese goalkeeper.

India extended their lead in the 27th minute when Chinglensana capitalized on a corner kick that Bhutan failed to clear, striking from close range.

Bhutan responded quickly in the second half, with Tobden scoring in the 48th minute. He headed the ball into the net after Gyeltshen's shot from inside the box, with VAR overturning an initial offside call.

This match also marked a significant moment as it was the first time the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system was utilized in the SAFF Championship.

India's U-23 reserve squad, managed by head coach Naushad Moosa, took the field as the senior team is currently participating in friendly matches in New Zealand.

The final match is set for November 17, where India will compete against either the host nation Bangladesh or Pakistan.