Indian Football Team Advances in SAFF Championship 2025

India, 25 December 2025 — The Indian national football team secured a crucial victory against Nepal in the SAFF Championship 2025, advancing to the semi-finals. The match, held in Kathmandu on December 24, saw India triumph with a scoreline of 2-1. Captain Sunil Chhetri's decisive penalty in the 78th minute sealed the win. India's performance in the group stage has been notable, marking their third consecutive win. Coach Igor Štimac expressed satisfaction with the team's form, highlighting the importance of maintaining momentum as they prepare for the knockout stages. The victory underscores India's dominance in the regional tournament, where they have historically performed well. The match began with a strong offensive from both teams, but it was India's early goal by forward Manvir Singh in the 32nd minute that set the tone. Nepal equalized shortly after half-time, but India's resilience was evident as they continued to press forward. The semi-final match is scheduled for December 28, where India will face the winner of the Maldives vs. Sri Lanka encounter. This progression in the tournament is seen as a positive step towards bolstering the team's confidence on an international platform. The SAFF Championship is a key event for South Asian football nations, offering an opportunity to showcase talent and foster regional sportsmanship. India's continued success in the tournament highlights the team's growing capabilities and aspirations on the global stage.