India Triumphs Over Bhutan 5-0 to Reach SAFF U20 Championship Final
India Secures Spot in Final
On Wednesday, India showcased an impressive performance by defeating Bhutan 5-0 in the semi-finals of the SAFF U20 Championship held at the National Stadium in Male, Maldives. As the defending champions, India displayed remarkable speed, accuracy, and decisive finishing, setting up a final match against Bangladesh, who won their semi-final against Nepal 1-0, according to the AIFF website. Rohen Singh Chaphamayum was the star of the match, scoring two goals in quick succession during the 56th and 57th minutes, while Omang Dodum (4'), Md Arbash (44'), and substitute Malemngamba Thokchom (90+2') contributed to the scoreline.
Dominance in the First Half
India took control of the match right from the start, scoring in the fourth minute through a well-executed play. Bungson Singh Takhellambam sent a long ball down the right, which Rohen collected and made a powerful run. His low cross found Omang Dodum, who skillfully slid between two defenders to score at the near post. This early goal allowed India to dictate the game's pace, maintaining possession and applying pressure on Bhutan's defense. Vishal Yadav nearly doubled the lead in the sixth minute, but his deflected shot narrowly missed the target. India continued to challenge Bhutan's goalkeeper, Tandin Penjor, with efforts from Rohen and Dodum.
Close Calls and a Second Goal
In the 37th minute, India came close again when Yaipharemba Chingakham's precise cross found Rishikanta Meitei Laishram, but his shot was blocked by Sonam Dorji. Bhutan's best opportunity came shortly after, when a misplaced pass from Rohen allowed Ngawang Yonten to take a shot from distance, hitting the crossbar as Suraj Singh Aheibam scrambled to recover. Just before halftime, India extended their lead to 2-0 when Dodum's run and cross set up Arbash for a tap-in at the far post.
Second Half Seals the Victory
The second half saw India maintain their aggressive approach. They quickly scored their third goal in the 56th minute through a well-coordinated team effort. Dodum advanced down the left and passed to Arbash, who assisted Rohen for a powerful strike into the net. Just a minute later, Rohen capitalized on Bhutan's poor passing to score his second goal. India controlled the match thereafter, limiting Bhutan's chances while threatening on counterattacks. The final goal came in stoppage time when Malemngamba Thokchom fired a left-footed shot from an angle, concluding the match with a 5-0 victory.