After a two-decade absence, India have managed to return to the prestigious AFC U20 Asian Cup. The young brigade from India sealed a dominant 3-0 win over Bangladesh in their final Group B fixture at the Do’stlik Stadium to seal their qualification.
Danny Meitei Laishram kicked off the scoring in the 25th minute, followed by an audacious 60th-minute finish from Vishal Yadav. Second-half replacement Md Arbash wrapped up the dominant display with a fierce 79th-minute strike.
Following a cagey start where neither side dominated early on, India struck first. Danny forced Bangladesh centre-back Md Abdul Riyad Fahim into a defensive error, allowing Hateem Ali to pounce on the loose ball. The Indian attacker evaded two defenders before picking out an unmarked Danny in the box, who scored to give India the lead.
Second-half brilliance helps India create history
After the opening goal, India controlled possession and further scoring opportunities. Danny almost extended the lead on 34 minutes through a dipping set-piece, but Bangladesh keeper Raj Chowdhury pulled off a crucial save.
India continued their dominance after the half-time break, putting pressure on Bangladesh’s backline. Their persistence paid off at the hour mark when a long throw was flicked on by Rishikanta into the path of Vishal, who executed a spectacular overhead finish to stun Bangladesh.
A fluid passing sequence started by Yaipharemba Chingakham tore through Bangladesh’s defence, enabling Arbash to blast a left-footed strike into the top corner. With the contest effectively settled, Gawali utilised his bench strength to seal the match in the final minutes. He brought on Aniket Yadav, Omang Dodum, and Daniyal Makakmayum, as the Indian side looked to retain the ball, control the tempo, and manage the closing stages.
India eventually held their nerve to seal a comfortable 3-0 win against Bangladesh to secure a place in the AFC Asian Cup after 20 years.
India U20 Men’s Team:
Suraj Singh Aheibam (GK); Yaipharemba Chingakham, Bungson Singh Takhellambam, Sumit Sharma Brahmacharimayum (C), Shami Singamayum (Daniyal Makakmayum 88’), Rishi Singh Ningthoukhongjam, Danny Meitei Laishram (Md Arbash 72’), Malemngamba Singh Thokchom, Vishal Yadav (Prashan Jajo 72’), Rishikanta Meitei Laishram (Aniket Yadav 85’), Hateem Ali (Omang Dodum 85’).
(With inputs from ANI)
