Buoyed by its impressive win over Pakistan, India will turn their attention to Bangladesh in their final Group B match of the SAFF U20 Championship at the National Football Stadium in Male on Saturday.
Although India have already secured a spot in the semi-finals, the battle remains important with top spot in Group B up for grabs. A draw would be enough for India to finish top, while Bangladesh need a win.
Indian head coach Mahesh Gawali said: «It was a good match against Pakistan. We played better in the second half and controlled the game. Defensively we were organized and our goalkeeper was very good. But now we look ahead. Every team is strong. On the day, any team can beat anyone. We don’t take any team lightly.»
Having secured qualification, India will also see the game as an opportunity to fine-tune aspects of its performance ahead of the knockouts. Despite the convincing result against Pakistan, there were phases – especially in the first half – when India were tested defensively. Pakistan created openings and goalkeeper Suraj Singh Aheibam had to produce crucial saves to keep India ahead.
Bangladesh, meanwhile, come into the match with confidence after their victory over Pakistan and will look to avenge the defeat against India in the final of the 2025 SAFF U19 Championship.
When and where does the match start?
The SAFF U-20 match between India and Bangladesh will start on Saturday, March 28 at 4:15 PM IST at the National Football Stadium in Male.
Where can you watch the match?
The SAFF U-20 match between India and Bangladesh will be streamed live on the Sportzworkz YouTube channel.
Bangladesh head coach Mark Cox emphasized the preparation and unity within his squad while acknowledging India’s challenge.
«We have trained for two weeks. The boys have bonded well with each other and have a great understanding. However, we are always cautious because football has a nasty habit of knocking you down when you are at an all-time high. India will always be a threat. But we will be prepared to face the best teams,» Cox said.
Another subplot will be the battle between Indian striker Omang Dodum and Bangladeshi striker Ronan Sullivan. Both have scored two goals each and will look to add to their tally before the knockouts.
Dodum said he was happy with his performance and wants to continue his form. «I am very happy with the way I performed. I am grateful to the coaches and my teammates. Our goal against Bangladesh is simple: win three points and top the group. So I am waiting for the next match,» he said.
Sullivan also remained positive about beating India. «It was a great win against Pakistan. In the next match we want to beat India and win all the matches in the group,» he said.
With both teams eyeing top spot in Group B, Saturday’s encounter promises to be a competitive affair. For India, the goal is clear: build momentum, strengthen the defensive organization and bring confidence to the semi-finals.
Published on March 28, 2026
