India’s U19 men’s football team clinched the SAFF U19 Championship title after a thrilling penalty shootout win against Bangladesh at the Golden Jubilee Stadium. The match ended 1-1 after regular time, with India winning the shootout 5-4. This victory crowned two months of intense preparation and hard work. Head coach Bibiano Fernandes dedicated this success to the passionate fans of Arunachal Pradesh.
Fans’ Support Played a Key Role
Coach Fernandes praised the incredible support from the Arunachal Pradesh fans, stating, “I want to dedicate this win to the amazing fans in Arunachal Pradesh. Their support pushed us to perform our best.” He highlighted that the turnout in Itanagar was exceptional for a junior-level match, saying, “I have never seen such a large crowd for a junior game anywhere in India. The players loved playing in front of them.”
Strong Preparation and Mental Toughness
The team’s composure during the tense penalty shootout was a result of thorough preparation and confidence. Goalkeeper Suraj Singh Aheibam made a crucial save, just as Fernandes had anticipated. “Suraj has been outstanding in training, especially with penalty saves. We knew he would be key for us,” said Fernandes.
Bangladesh fought hard to equalize after trailing but India’s players showed great mental strength. Fernandes noted, “We expected a tough final. Bangladesh showed great resilience, but our boys kept their focus and fought with great spirit.”
Looking Ahead: Building the Future
As the team now gears up for the AFC U20 Asian Cup Qualifiers, Fernandes emphasized the importance of grassroots support for Indian football’s growth. “This win will inspire many young players to dream about representing India. We hope to see more talents like Omang Dodum rise in the future,” he said.
The Bigger Dream: World Cup Qualification
For Fernandes, this victory is just a step towards a bigger goal. “India has abundant talent. With proper development, I believe we can achieve the dream of qualifying for the World Cup someday. That remains our ultimate aim.”
