The India U20 men’s team delivered a commanding performance to defeat Pakistan 3-0 in their opening Group B clash of the SAFF U20 Championship 2026 at the National Stadium in Malé.
A second-half brace from Omang Dodum, combined with an early strike by Vishal Yadav, ensured a comprehensive victory for the Blue Colts, who also sealed their place in the semi-finals with the result.
Coming into the match with high expectations, India wasted no time in asserting control. Within the opening two minutes, they created their first chance, as Vishal Yadav burst down the right flank and delivered a dangerous cross into the box. Omang Dodum, however, was unable to convert from close range.
Early Breakthrough Sets the Tone
India’s aggressive start paid off almost immediately. In the third minute, Gurnaj Singh Grewal spotted Yadav’s forward run and delivered a precise lofted ball over the Pakistan defence. Yadav controlled it well and fired an initial shot that was blocked, but he reacted quickest to the rebound, slotting home from a tight angle to give India an early lead.
The goal settled India into their rhythm, allowing them to dictate the tempo during the opening exchanges. However, Pakistan gradually grew into the contest and began to challenge India’s defensive structure.
Pakistan Test India’s Defence
Despite trailing early, Pakistan showed resilience and created a couple of promising opportunities to level the score. Their best chances came through a combination of Khobaib Khan and Najeebullah, who managed to find spaces behind the Indian backline.
In one instance, Najeebullah broke free after receiving a lofted ball, but goalkeeper Suraj Singh Aheibam displayed excellent awareness, rushing off his line to deny the forward at a crucial moment. Shortly after, another quick exchange between the same pair saw Khan attempt a shot from inside the box, only for Suraj to produce another sharp save.
These moments highlighted Pakistan’s ability to exploit transitional situations, but India’s defensive organisation, anchored by disciplined positioning and timely interventions, ensured they maintained their lead going into halftime.
Dodum Makes the Difference
The second half saw India regain control, particularly in midfield, where they began to move the ball with greater precision and purpose. Their second goal in the 64th minute exemplified their improved attacking cohesion.
The move began deep in defence, with Samson Ahongshangbam carrying the ball forward before switching play with an accurate cross to Rishi Singh Ninthoukhongjam on the right. Rishi showed composure to lay the ball into Dodum’s path, and the forward reacted quickly, beating the goalkeeper to the ball and heading it into the net.
The goal not only doubled India’s advantage but also shifted the momentum firmly in their favour. With a two-goal cushion, India managed the game effectively, controlling possession and limiting Pakistan’s opportunities to mount a comeback.
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India’s defensive structure remained compact throughout the second half, with the backline and midfield working in tandem to close down spaces. Pakistan struggled to create clear chances, often being forced into speculative efforts from distance or wide areas.
Substitutions introduced fresh energy into India’s setup, allowing them to maintain intensity in both attack and defence. The team’s ability to transition quickly from defence to attack continued to trouble Pakistan, who found it difficult to cope with India’s pace on the flanks.
Late Penalty Seals Comprehensive Win
India put the result beyond doubt in the 88th minute when Prashan Jajo was brought down inside the penalty area by Muhammad Junaid. The referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot.
Omang Dodum stepped up and confidently converted the penalty, completing his brace and capping off an impressive individual performance. His movement, positioning, and finishing ability proved decisive in the final outcome.
The victory not only gives India three points but also confirms their qualification for the semi-finals, thanks to Pakistan’s earlier defeat to Bangladesh. With Pakistan now eliminated, the focus shifts to India’s upcoming clash against Bangladesh, which will determine the Group B toppers.
For head coach Mahesh Gawali, the match offered several positives, including the team’s attacking efficiency, defensive resilience, and ability to adapt during different phases of the game. However, the first-half defensive lapses will likely be an area of focus ahead of the next fixture.
India’s performance also highlighted the depth within the squad. Substitutes such as Samson Ahongshangbam and Rishi Singh Ninthoukhongjam played key roles in the second goal, while Prashan Jajo’s impact in winning the penalty showcased the effectiveness of the bench.
The team’s tactical flexibility switching between structured build-up play and quick counter-attacks proved crucial in breaking down Pakistan’s resistance.
With momentum on their side, India will now aim to finish top of Group B when they face Bangladesh on March 28. A draw will be sufficient to secure the top spot, but the Blue Colts will be keen to maintain their winning run and carry confidence into the knockout stages.
For now, the 3-0 victory over Pakistan serves as a strong statement of intent one that underlines India’s credentials as one of the favourites for the SAFF U20 Championship title.
