India Triumphs Over Kuwait in SAFF U-19 Championship Semifinal

India, 23 December 2025 — The Indian U-19 football team secured a place in the final of the SAFF U-19 Championship by defeating Kuwait 2-1 in a closely contested semifinal on Saturday. The match took place at the Dasharath Stadium in Kathmandu, Nepal, marking another significant milestone for Indian football on the international stage.

Striker Ravi Kumar scored the opening goal for India in the 23rd minute, giving the team an early lead. However, Kuwait responded quickly with an equalizer in the 35th minute. The decisive moment came in the 68th minute when midfielder Arjun Sen scored the winning goal, ensuring India's progression to the final.

The victory is a testament to the growing talent pool in Indian football and underscores the efficacy of youth development programs. The Indian team displayed resilience and tactical discipline, attributes that have been increasingly emphasized by the coaching staff.

The SAFF U-19 Championship serves as a platform for young footballers in the South Asian region to showcase their skills and gain international experience. The Indian team's performance in this tournament has heightened expectations for future successes.

The final will be held on Monday, with India set to face either Bangladesh or Nepal, depending on the outcome of the second semifinal. The Indian team is focused on maintaining their momentum as they aim to clinch the championship title.