India Faces Bangladesh in Crucial SAFF U-19 Championship Semi-Final

India, 14 December 2025 — The Indian under-19 football team is set to take on Bangladesh in the semi-final of the SAFF U-19 Championship on Thursday. The match will be held at the Dasharath Stadium in Kathmandu, Nepal, marking a significant stage for India as they aim to secure a place in the finals. The Indian team, led by head coach Shanmugam Venkatesh, has shown promising form throughout the tournament, remaining unbeaten in the group stage. Their performance has been bolstered by the impressive play of forward Aman Chetri, who has emerged as a top scorer. Bangladesh, on the other hand, has also demonstrated resilience, having advanced through a tough group stage. The semi-final clash is expected to be a tightly contested affair, with both teams having strong defensive records. The outcome of this match will determine who will face the winner of the other semi-final between Nepal and Bhutan. The SAFF U-19 Championship serves as an important platform for young talent in South Asia, providing international exposure and development opportunities for emerging players. India’s performance in this tournament is crucial as it sets the stage for future competitions and the nurturing of young football talent in the region. As the match unfolds, both teams will look to capitalize on their strengths in pursuit of the championship title.