The stage is set for the SAFF U19 Championship 2025, and India U19 head coach Bibiano Fernandes has named a strong 23-member squad to lead the charge.
This year’s competition will follow a group stage format, not a round-robin. India have been drawn into Group B, alongside Sri Lanka and Nepal, while Group A features Bangladesh, Maldives, and Bhutan.
India will kick off their campaign on May 9 against Sri Lanka and will play their second group game against Nepal on May 13. With only two matches determining a spot in the semi-finals, every minute and goal will carry weight.
Tournament Format: Two Groups, High Stakes
The format ensures that only the top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals, making the group stage intense and competitive. Group A appears slightly more open on paper, while Group B is expected to be closely contested, particularly between India and Nepal—two regional heavyweights with a strong youth development culture.
India U19’s group stage fixtures:
- India U19 vs Sri Lanka U19 – May 9, 19:30 IST
- India U19 vs Nepal U19 – May 13, 19:30 IST
India U19 Squad: A Blend of Energy and Structure
The All India Football Federation has assembled a squad rich in technical quality, speed, and game intelligence. The team represents a wide swath of the country, reinforcing the ever-widening football talent pipeline in India.
Goalkeepers:
- Aheibam Suraj Singh
- Aarush Hari
- Rohit
In goal, the trio offers a healthy mix of agility and maturity. Suraj Singh, in particular, has been impressive in training camps, while Aarush Hari brings solid ball distribution.
Defenders:
- Sohum Utreja
- Ashik Adhikari
- Jodric Abranches
- Mohammed Kaif
- Mukul Panwar
- Sumit Sharma Brahmacharimayum
- Takhellambam Bungson Singh
- Malemngamba Singh Thokchom
- Roshan Singh Thangjam
India’s backline will be critical against physically competitive opponents like Nepal. The likes of Roshan Singh and Mohammed Kaif are expected to lead from the back, with full-backs such as Ashik Adhikari adding width going forward.
Midfielders:
- Gurnaj Singh Grewal
- Singamayum Shami
- Danny Meitei Laishram
- Md Arbash
- Ningthoukhongjam Rishi Singh
- Daniyal Makakmayum
India’s midfield strength lies in its dynamism. Danny Laishram and Rishi Singh are expected to control tempo, while Shami and Arbash offer high pressing energy and creativity in the final third.
Forwards:
- Hemneichung Lunkim
- Bharat Lairenjam
- Omang Dodum
- Prashan Jajo
- Yohaan Benjamin
- Ahongshangbam Samson
- Chaphamayum Rohen Singh
The attacking unit includes powerful runners like Lunkim and Yohaan Benjamin, while Omang Dodum’s versatility allows him to play across the front line. Prashan Jajo and Bharat Lairenjam add technical flair and an eye for goal.
Coach Bibiano Fernandes: Familiar Face, New Mission
Fernandes has long been associated with India’s youth teams, guiding the country to multiple final appearances at the U16 and U19 levels. Under his leadership, India’s age-group sides have gained tactical identity and competitive steel. His experience will be invaluable as India navigates a short, high-stakes tournament.
Group B Outlook: Tricky but Winnable
India’s group may appear straightforward, but neither Sri Lanka nor Nepal can be underestimated. Sri Lanka’s youth system has shown recent improvement, while Nepal remains one of the most unpredictable sides in South Asia, especially with their physicality and home-grown talent pool.
India will need to be alert in transitions and clinical in front of goal. With only two games to determine their fate, even goal difference could become a decisive factor. The match against Nepal on May 13 could effectively be a knockout in disguise.
Group A Watch: Bangladesh the Team to Beat
In Group A, Bangladesh are the early favourites, especially after their dominant 4–1 win over Nepal in the SAFF U20 Championship 2024 semi-final. However, Bhutan and Maldives have made steady progress in their youth setups and could spring a surprise or two.
India would do well to scout this group closely, as one of these teams will likely be their semi-final opponent, should they progress.
India U19 enters this championship with high expectations and a squad capable of delivering. With strong defensive structure, a fluid midfield, and attacking firepower, they have all the ingredients to lift the SAFF U19 title.
As the tournament kicks off on May 9, all eyes will be on the young Blue Tigers. Can they turn talent into trophies? If Bibiano Fernandes’ boys can remain focused and disciplined, India could very well be looking at another SAFF crown.
