India thrash Pakistan 3-0 in SAFF U20 Championship and storm into the semifinals.

India’s U20 team beat Pakistan 3-0, with Omang Dodum scoring twice to seal a semifinal spot.

Mar 27, 2026 00:16 IST

The India national under-20 football team made a powerful statement in their opening Group B match of the SAFF U20 Championship 2026, defeating the Pakistan national under-20 football team 3-0 in Malé. The win not only marked a perfect start but also confirmed India’s place in the semifinals, while Pakistan was knocked out of the tournament.

Dominant start as India seal early lead

India wasted no time in asserting control. Within just three minutes, Vishal Yadav capitalised on a well-weighted ball from Gurnaj Singh Grewal, reacting quickly to a rebound to slot home the opener. The early goal lifted India’s confidence and set the tone for the match. Pakistan, however, responded with intent and created a few promising chances. Their best efforts were denied by goalkeeper Suraj Singh Aheibam, whose timely interventions ensured India carried their lead into the break.

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Dodum brace seals commanding win

The second half saw India take full control of the contest. Omang Dodum doubled the lead in the 64th minute, finishing off a well-worked move that began with a counter-attack and smart build-up play. With a two-goal cushion, India dictated the tempo and maintained a solid defensive structure, leaving Pakistan struggling to find a breakthrough. The Indian backline stayed disciplined, cutting off attacking threats and protecting the clean sheet. India put the result beyond doubt in the 88th minute when Dodum converted a penalty after Prashan Jajo was brought down inside the box. The goal completed his brace and sealed a comprehensive victory.

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With this convincing win, India has secured a semi-final berth and carries strong momentum into their final group-stage match against the Bangladesh national under-20 football team. A point from that game will be enough to confirm top spot in Group B, as the Blue Colts look to continue their impressive run in the tournament.