India Advances to Final of SAFF U-19 Championship in Football

India, 27 December 2025 — The Indian U-19 football team secured a place in the final of the SAFF U-19 Championship by defeating Nepal 3-0 in a decisive semi-final match held in Kathmandu, Nepal. The match, which took place on 26 December 2025, saw the Indian team dominate proceedings from the start, with goals from Lalchungnunga Zote, Aman Chetri, and Amandeep Singh. This victory marks a significant achievement for the young Indian squad, showcasing their talent and determination in the regional tournament.
The Indian team, coached by Shanmugam Venkatesh, has been in impressive form throughout the tournament, remaining unbeaten in the group stage. Their journey to the final underscores the development of youth football in India and reflects the growing emphasis on nurturing young talent.
The final match is set to take place on 28 December 2025, where India will face either Bangladesh or Sri Lanka, depending on the outcome of the other semi-final. As the defending champions, India aims to retain their title and continue their success in the tournament.
The SAFF U-19 Championship serves as a critical platform for young footballers in South Asia, providing them with international exposure and competitive experience. India's consistent performance in the tournament highlights the country's potential to develop future stars for the national team.