India’s U17 side showcased nerves of steel as they secured their seventh SAFF Championship title, defeating Bangladesh 4-1 in a tense penalty shootout at the Racecourse International Stadium on Saturday.
The Blue Colts dominated the first half, racing into a 2-0 lead with early strikes from Dallamuon Gangte in the 4th minute and Azlaan Shah KH in the 38th minute.
Bangladesh Fight Back
Just when it seemed India were cruising to victory, Bangladesh mounted a dramatic comeback. Ihsan Habib Riduan netted a last-minute equaliser, levelling the scores at 2-2 and forcing the contest into a nerve-wracking penalty shootout. The goal brought the hosts under immense pressure, testing the composure of India’s young side.
Penalty Shootout Brilliance
The Blue
Colts held their nerve in the shootout, converting four of their first four attempts. Dallamuon Gangte, Korou Meitei Konthoujam, and Indra Rana Magar scored with confidence before Shubham Poonia calmly slotted home the decisive fourth kick. Bangladesh faltered under pressure, with Md Ikramul Islam hitting the crossbar and Md Azam Khan having his effort saved by goalkeeper Manashjyoti Baruah.
India erupted in celebration after reclaiming the SAFF U-17 throne, a victory that adds another chapter to India’s dominance in the regional youth football scene.
(with PTI inputs)
