India's U20 Team Dominates Pakistan with 3-0 Victory in SAFF Championship
India's Strong Start in SAFF U20 Championship
In their opening match of the SAFF U20 Championship 2026, the Indian U20 men's football team achieved a remarkable 3-0 victory against Pakistan at the National Stadium in Male on Thursday. Vishal Yadav set the tone early by scoring in the third minute, followed by Dodum, who netted two goals in the 64th and 88th minutes. This win not only marked a perfect start for India but also guaranteed their advancement to the semi-finals, as reported by the AIFF.
Pakistan, having suffered defeats in both of their matches, including a loss to Bangladesh just two days prior, has been eliminated from the tournament. The top position in Group B will be determined when India faces Bangladesh on Saturday.
Early Advantage for the Blue Colts
India began the match aggressively, creating a chance within the first two minutes. Vishal Yadav made a run down the right side and delivered a threatening cross intended for Omang Dodum, who unfortunately could not convert. The breakthrough came shortly after when Gurnaj Singh Grewal spotted Yadav's run and lofted a ball over the Pakistani defense. Yadav controlled it well and attempted a shot that was blocked, but he quickly reacted to the rebound, finishing with his left foot at the near post to give 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, only to be thwarted by goalkeeper Suraj Singh Aheibam, who made several crucial saves. In one instance, Khobaib Khan lifted a ball for Najeebullah, who managed to evade Roshan Singh Thangjam. As he prepared to shoot, Suraj made a timely intervention.
Shortly after, Najeebullah flicked a header to Khan, but once again, the vigilant Indian goalkeeper kept the attempt at bay.
India Secures Victory in the Second Half
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 reached the ball ahead of goalkeeper Zulqurnain and headed it 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 confirmed their victory late in the match. In the 88th minute, Muhammad Junaid fouled Prashan Jajo inside the penalty area, leading referee Virendha Rai to award a penalty. Dodum stepped up and executed a powerful strike, completing his brace and sealing the match's outcome.
This decisive win provides India with early 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 encounter against the runners-up from Group A.