New DelhiOn Thursday, March 26, India and Pakistan will square off in the SAFF U20 Championship at the National Football Stadium in Malé, the capital of the Maldives. It will be a "do or die" match for Pakistan, while the Indian U20 football team hopes to start their campaign with a decisive win.
Group B includes Bangladesh, Pakistan, and India. A single victory could virtually guarantee a spot in the semifinals with just two games remaining. On March 28, India will play Bangladesh. Notably, Bangladesh's 2-0 victory over Pakistan in their first game increased the pressure on Pakistan to prevail. This implies that India needs to avoid a setback when playing Pakistan.
India hopes to start the competition strong.India vs. Pakistan is always a big game, but for us, it's just like any other match, Indian team coach Mahesh Gawali stated prior to the game. "We are treating India vs. Pakistan like any other game, even though it is always a big match. Every match is important for us. So the focus is on starting the tournament well and making a positive beginning," said India U20 coach Mahesh Gawali. "At the same time, we need to be cautious and play with composure and discipline," he added.
India vs. Pakistan is always a big game, but for us, it's just like any other match, Indian team coach Mahesh Gawali stated prior to the game. "We are treating India vs. Pakistan like any other game, even though it is always a big match. Every match is important for us. So the focus is on starting the tournament well and making a positive beginning," said India U20 coach Mahesh Gawali. "At the same time, we need to be cautious and play with composure and discipline," he added.Having won the title four times, in 2019, 2022, 2023, and 2025, India is a favorite going into this tournament. Pakistan will attempt to throw off India's rhythm because of their reputation for playing physically. However, since many of the players will only be participating in their second international game, the team lacks experience. In addition to being a contest for prestige, India vs. Pakistan is a crucial game that could decide who advances to the semifinals. Fans can anticipate a difficult and fierce matchup between the two teams.
The 23-man Indian team for the 2026 SAFF U20 Championship in the Maldives:Goalkeepers: Suraj Singh Aheibam, Pranav Sundarraman, and Alsabith ST.
Bungson Singh Takhellambam, Jodric Abranches, Karish Soram, Malemngamba Singh Thokchom, Mohammed Kaif, Roshan Singh Thangjam, Usham Singh Thoungamba, and Yaipharemba Chingakham are the defenders.
Aniket Yadav, Danny Meitei Laishram, Gurnaj Singh Grewal, Md Arbash, Rishikanta Meitei Laishram, and Rishi Singh Ningthoukhongjam are the midfielders.
Omang Dodum, Prashan Jajo, Rohen Singh Chaphamayum, Vishal Yadav, Samson Ahongshangbam, and Tanbir Dey are the forwards.
Mahesh Gawali is the head coach.
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