Indian Football Team Advances to Semi-Finals in SAFF U-19 Championship

India, 24 December 2025 — The Indian U-19 football team secured a spot in the semi-finals of the SAFF U-19 Championship with a decisive victory over Bangladesh on Tuesday. The match, held in Kathmandu, saw India triumph 3-1, ensuring their progression in the regional tournament.

India's goals were scored by forward Shubho Paul, who netted twice, and midfielder Himanshu Jangra, who added another to the tally. Bangladesh managed to score only once, with a goal from forward Rafiqul Islam.

The victory highlights India's strong performance in the tournament, building on their earlier win against Nepal. The Indian team, coached by Shanmugam Venkatesh, has demonstrated significant improvement in their gameplay and coordination.

The semi-finals are scheduled to take place on December 26, with India set to face the winner of the match between Bhutan and Sri Lanka. The SAFF U-19 Championship is pivotal for showcasing young talent in South Asian football, providing players with international exposure and experience.

This progression reinforces India's commitment to nurturing young football talent and strengthening its presence in regional competitions.