India U20 Team Dominates Pakistan with 3-0 Victory in SAFF Championship

India's Strong Start in SAFF U20 Championship

Male [Maldives], March 26: In their opening match of the SAFF U20 Championship 2026, the Indian U20 men's football team achieved a remarkable 3-0 win against Pakistan at the National Stadium in Male on Thursday.

Vishal Yadav set the tone early by scoring in the third minute, followed by two goals from Omang Dodum in the 64th and 88th minutes. This victory not only marked a successful start for India but also guaranteed their advancement to the semi-finals, as reported by the AIFF.

On the other hand, Pakistan faced elimination after suffering two consecutive losses, including a defeat to Bangladesh just two days prior. The top position in Group B will be determined when India takes on Bangladesh on Saturday.

India began aggressively, creating a chance within the first two minutes. Vishal Yadav made a run down the right side and sent a threatening cross into the box for Dodum, who unfortunately could not convert.

The breakthrough came shortly after. Gurnaj Singh Grewal spotted Yadav's run and lofted a ball over the Pakistani defense. Although Dodum's initial shot was blocked, he quickly reacted to the rebound and scored with his left foot at the near post, giving India an early lead.

This goal boosted India's confidence, but Pakistan gradually found their footing and began to challenge the Indian defense. They nearly equalized on two occasions, but goalkeeper Suraj Singh Aheibam made crucial saves to deny them.

In one instance, Khobaib Khan set up Najeebullah, who managed to evade Roshan Singh Thangjam. Just as he was about to shoot, Suraj made a timely intervention. Shortly after, Najeebullah's header found Khan, but once again, the vigilant Indian goalkeeper thwarted the attempt.

Pakistan's missed chances proved detrimental in the second half. India extended their lead with a quick counter-attack.

Samson Ahongshangbam advanced the ball from defense into the left channel and delivered a precise cross to Rishi Singh Ninthoukhongjam. Rishi laid it off for Dodum, who beat the goalkeeper Zulqurnain to head the ball into the net in the 64th minute.

With a two-goal advantage, India managed the game's pace while Pakistan sought to regain control. The Indian defense remained solid and organized, limiting Pakistan's opportunities.

India secured 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 shot, completing his brace and sealing the match.

This decisive win gives India significant momentum in the tournament, as the Blue Colts prepare to face Bangladesh in their final Group B match, where they need just a point to secure the top position and set up a semi-final against the Group A runners-up.