The Indian U17 football team, known fondly as the Blue Colts, is ready to begin their title defence at the SAFF U17 Championship 2025, which kicks off in Sri Lanka from 15 to 27 September.
India enters the tournament as the undisputed powerhouse of South Asian youth football, having clinched their sixth title in 2024 with a 2-0 win over Bangladesh in the final. Even more impressively, India has dominated the competition in recent years, winning the last four editions across the U-15, U-16, and U-17 formats. This year, seven nations will contest for the regional crown. The teams have been divided into two groups, with the top two sides from each advancing to the semi-finals on September 25, followed by the final on September 27.
India has been drawn into Group B, alongside Maldives, Bhutan, and Pakistan, while Group A features hosts Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Nepal.
For the Blue Colts, expectations remain sky-high. Anything less than reaching the final would be viewed as a disappointment, given their history and quality.
Group B: India’s Roadmap, India enters as the clear favourites in Group B, but their path to the knockouts presents varied challenges.
- India (Pot 1): As defending champions and the most successful side in the tournament’s history, India will be expected to dominate possession, control tempo, and convert chances efficiently. Their attacking depth and defensive solidity make them the team to beat.
- Pakistan (Pot 2): Pakistan reached the semi-finals in the last edition and are India’s toughest group-stage opponents. Their clash, scheduled for the final group match, could well decide who tops the pool.
- Bhutan (Pot 3): Having hosted the last two editions, Bhutan are keen to improve results. They are likely to adopt a defensive strategy, hoping to frustrate stronger opponents and possibly cause an upset.
- Maldives (Pot 4): The underdogs of the group, Maldives will likely battle for third place. They are expected to defend deep and counter when possible, with goal difference playing a key role in their campaign.
India’s aim is clear win all group games, secure top spot, and march into the semi-finals brimming with confidence.
Bibiano Fernandes: The Man Behind the Blueprint
The Blue Colts will once again be guided by Bibiano Fernandes, one of India’s most successful youth coaches. A former professional and part of India’s golden generation in football, Fernandes has built a strong reputation for nurturing young talent. His philosophy revolves around freedom and learning. He insists that players must be allowed to make mistakes, as this helps them grow both technically and mentally. He encourages creativity and expression, ensuring the team does not rely on one or two players for goals. Instead, responsibility is shared across the pitch, with midfielders and defenders given the license to join attacks.
Fernandes has also spoken about the need for more tournaments and competitive matches at the grassroots and academy levels in India. His emphasis on match-specific training prepares players for realistic game scenarios, sharpening decision-making under pressure. The U17 squad has been training in Goa since July, with trials ensuring only the most promising talents made the cut. Fernandes’ focus has been on tactical flexibility, quick transitions, and team cohesion—qualities India will need to sustain their dominance.
India’s 23-Man Squad
The selected squad blends attacking flair, midfield creativity, and defensive solidity. Many players come from ISL and I-League academies, eager to use the SAFF Championship as a stepping stone to senior football.
Goalkeepers: Manashjyoti Baruah, Maroof Shafi, Rajrup Sarkar
Defenders: Houlungou Mate, Indra Rana Magar, Konthoujam Korou Meitei, Md Aimaan Bin, Lawmsangzuala, Shubham Poonia, Yumnam Maldino Singh
Midfielders: Abrar Ali Baba, Dallalmuon Gangte, Thanggoumang Touthang, Thokchom Diamond Singh, Wangkhem Denny Singh, Yengkhom Nitishkumar Meitei
Forwards: Aazim Parveez Najar, Azlaan Shah Kh, Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam, Hrishikesh Charan Manavathi, Kamgouhao Doungel, Lesvin Rebelo, Rahan Ahmed
The squad is supported by Assistant Coach Chandam Chitrasen Singh, Goalkeeping Coach Parshuram Salwadi, and Strength & Conditioning Coach Karan Mane. Key players to watch include Hrishikesh Manavathi, a prolific scorer, and Nitishkumar Meitei, a midfielder capable of dictating the tempo. The squad’s challenge, however, lies in limited exposure many players are restricted to youth setups at their clubs, with fewer opportunities for senior-level minutes.
Fixtures: India’s Group Stage Battles
September 16: India vs Maldives – India kicks off against Maldives, a match expected to set the tone for their campaign. Historically dominant against the island nation, India will look to control possession and score heavily. A comfortable win will place them firmly on track to top the group.
September 19: India vs Bhutan – India’s second clash comes against Bhutan. Having often registered big wins in past encounters, this game may allow Fernandes to rotate his squad and experiment with different systems. For Bhutan, a disciplined defensive approach could help them steal a point.
September 22: India vs Pakistan – The group’s marquee clash. Pakistan, semi-finalists in the last edition, pose India’s biggest challenge. Depending on earlier results, this encounter may decide the group winner. India will need a collective effort to secure victory and prove their supremacy once again.
Beyond the immediate aim of defending their crown, the SAFF Championship offers India’s youngsters an invaluable platform to gain international experience, sharpen tactical discipline, and develop the resilience needed at higher levels. While India’s dominance at the SAFF stage is undeniable, the real challenge lies beyond South Asia measuring up against stronger teams from East Asia and the Middle East. For that, sustained exposure, better youth competitions at home, and consistent development pathways are essential.
For now, though, the Blue Colts have a job at hand: to uphold their legacy, inspire the next generation, and remind South Asia why India remains the gold standard in youth football.
Tournament: SAFF U17 Championship 2025
📍 Venue: Sri Lanka
📅 Dates: September 15–27
🏆 India’s Record: Six-time champions, winners of last four editions
As the whistle blows in Sri Lanka, all eyes will be on the Blue Colts. Another title beckons—and with it, the promise of a brighter future for Indian football.
