Malé (Maldives), 02 April (H.S.):

Defending champions India advanced to the final of the SAFF U‑20 Championship with a dominant 5–0 victory over Bhutan in the semi‑final on Wednesday. The commanding win booked India’s place in the title clash against Bangladesh, who earlier edged past Nepal 1–0 in the other semi‑final. The final will be played on 3 April.

Match‑winning showpiece by the Young Blues

India’s key hero was Rohen Singh Chaphamayum, who netted twice in quick succession in the 56th and 57th minutes. Alongside him, Omang Dodum (4’), MD Arbash (44’) and substitute Malemngamba Thokchom (90+2’) also found the back of the net to complete the rout.

The Indian side came out with a clear attacking intent from the kickoff and opened the scoring inside four minutes. Capitalising on a long pass from Bhangsing Thakhellambam down the right, Rohen sprinted into the channel before delivering a precise cut‑back into the box. Omang Dodum finished calmly to make it 1–0.

After that early lead, India kept complete control of the game, sustaining pressure on Bhutan’s goal. Just before half‑time, Omang’s clever movement allowed Arbash to double the advantage with a composed finish, sending the Young Blues into the break 2–0 up.

Second‑half dominance and emphatic finish

In the second half, India became even more aggressive, exploiting Bhutan’s defence with swift movement and tight passing. Eleven minutes after the restart, Arbash set up Rohen with a well‑timed cut‑back, and the attacker slammed home India’s third goal. A minute later, Rohen struck again, completing his brace and making it 4–0.

In the dying moments of the match, substitute Malemngamba Thokchom capped off the scoring with a fine finish in the 90+2nd minute, sealing India’s comprehensive 5–0 victory.

Throughout the game, India displayed impressive cohesion, pace, and clinical finishing, leaving Bhutan with no meaningful opportunities and taking the tie in a one‑sided fashion. The Young Blues will now aim to defend their SAFF U‑20 title when they face Bangladesh in the summit clash.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar