‘We are the Champions!’ – Fans react as India U/19 team win their eight SAFF cup by defeating Pakistan in final

The Indian team was vying for their eighth SAFF youth men’s title as the Blue Colts faced Pakistan in the SAFF U19 Championship Final at Dashrath Stadium in Kathmandu on Saturday. It was indeed the case as the Indian U/19 football team defeated the Pakistan U/19 team in the finals of the South Asian Football Federation by a margin of 3-0.

With this win the Indian team have created history by winning the U/19 edition of the championship for the eighth time now. It’s noteworthy that both teams reached the event’s final through penalty shootouts. India led with three goals, dominating the game. However, in the 96th minute, just before the final whistle, Pakistan’s Ali Zafar received a red card for a rash challenge. The first half, ending 0-0, showcased Pakistan’s strong defence. India broke through in the 64th minute, maintaining control.

India defended their title, secured last year, with this victory. In additional minutes, India executed a stunning counter-attack, resulting in a goal from Goyary’s header. India intensified their offence, securing another goal in the 85th minute from the same player’s free kick. Kigpen’s thunderbolt in the 64th minute initially gave India the lead. Two goals from Kigpen and a precise last-minute header by Goyary secured the win for India.

India defeated Nepal in the Semi-Final

Indian youngster Manglenthang Kipgen sealed victory for India in the SAFF U19 Championship semifinal against Nepal with a decisive penalty, securing a 3-2 win in the shootout at Kathmandu’s Dasharath Stadium. After a 1-1 draw in regular time and a 2-2 tie-breaker, Kipgen, along with scorers Arjun Singh Oinam and Gwgwmsar Goyary, guided the Blue Colts to the final.

India’s dominant performance included overcoming challenges from Bangladesh and Bhutan in the group stages. Kipgen’s composed final shot reflected India’s resilience, earning them a well-deserved place in the tournament final.

Let us now look at how Twitter has reacted to this brilliant victory from the young U/19 Indian football team:

https://twitter.com/IshitaG10/status/1708117868863521076