India finished Runners-up in SAFF U20 Men’s Championship 2026 at Male after losing to Bangladesh in final via penalty shootout at the National Stadium in Malé on Friday. India lost by 4-3 scoreline. This was Bangladesh’s second title, having defeated Nepal 4-1 in 2024 final.
The match ended goalless in 120 minutes.
For India, Md. Arbash, Samson Ahongshangbam and Vishal Yadav converted while Rishikanta Laishram and Omang Dodum missed in penalty shootout.
Omang Dodum was named the Most Valuable Player of the SAFF U20 Championship 2026. He was also the joint top-scorer of the tournament with three goals.
Earlier, India defeated Bhutan 5-0 in semifinal, topped Group B after defeating Pakistan 3-0 and a 1-1 draw with Bangladesh.
The tournament had been played in U18, U19 & U20 format in the past. U18 in 2017, U19 in 2015, 2023, 2025 and U20 in 2022, 2024 and in 2026.
This was the 8th edition of the tournament. Earlier, Blue Colts have won four times – 2019, 2022, 2023 & 2025. Finished Runners Up in 2015 while finished semi-finalists in 2017 and 2024.
Nepal had won twice in 2015 & 2017.
India U20 Starting XI:
Suraj Singh Aheibam, Jodric Abranches, Bungson Singh Takhellambam, Roshan Singh Thangjam, Yaipharemba Chingakham, Rishikanta Meitei Laishram, Rohen Singh Chaphamayum, Md Arbash, Vishal Yadav, Ahongshangbam Samson, Omang Dodum.
Picture Courtesy: AIFF Media
