India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Nepal Reach SAFF U-17 Semis

 India Vs Pakistan match action

By Susil Premalal

The group stage of the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Cup Under 17 Boys Football Tournament 2025 concluded yesterday at the Racecourse Ground in Colombo, confirming India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Nepal as the four semi-finalists. 

Bangladesh, the Group ‘A’ champion, will face Pakistan, the Group ‘B’ runner-up, in the first semi-final, 

while India, the Group ‘B’ champion, will take on Nepal, the Group ‘A’ runner-up, in the second semi-final. Both semi-final matches are scheduled to be played on September 25. 

Defending champions India remained unbeaten throughout the group stage, securing a strong position heading into the knockouts. 

Sri Lanka, the host nation and Group ‘A’ representative, failed to register a single win in the preliminary round and exited the tournament. 

Yesterday’s final group stage matches saw India defeat Pakistan 3-2 in a thrilling clash, with goals from Dallalmuon Gangte (31st minute), Gunleiba Wankheiraakpan (64th minute), and Rahman Ahmed (74th minute), while Mohammed Abdullah (43rd minute) and Hamza Yasir (71st minute) scored for Pakistan. 

In the other game, Bhutan edged out the Maldives 1-0, with Dhenup Dorji converting a 10th-minute penalty to secure the victory.