India Win 7th SAFF U-17 Football Title in Colombo

India’s U-17 football team added another feather to its cap by clinching the 7th SAFF U-17 Championship title in Colombo after a nail-biting final against Bangladesh. The match, played on September 27, 2025, ended 2-2 in regulation time, before India held their nerve to win 4-1 in the penalty shootout at the Racecourse International Stadium.

This victory further consolidates India’s dominance in the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) youth tournaments.

Match Highlights

First Half: India Lead 2-1

India started strongly, with Dallamuon Gangte and Azlaan Shah KH scoring to give the team a 2-1 lead at half-time. Bangladesh managed to keep the contest alive with a goal before the break.

Second Half Drama

Despite India’s defensive discipline, Bangladesh struck back in the dying minutes. Ihsan Habib Riduan netted a last-minute equaliser, pushing the match into a penalty shootout.

Penalty Shootout: India Hold Nerve

In the shootout, India’s young players showed remarkable composure and maturity, converting their chances clinically while Bangladesh faltered under pressure. The final scoreline read 4-1 in India’s favour.

India’s Record in SAFF U-17 Championships

• This is India’s 7th title in the SAFF U-17/U-16 Championship history.
• The consistent success reflects India’s growing youth football ecosystem and improved grassroots development programs.
• Over the years, India has produced several promising players through SAFF youth tournaments, many of whom have graduated to the senior national team setup.

Key Takeaway

• On September 27, 2025, India won their 7th SAFF U-17 Championship title in Colombo.
• They defeated Bangladesh 4-1 on penalties after a 2-2 draw in regulation time.