By a Staff Reporter
Kathmandu (HamroKhelkud) – India have clinched the SAFF U-19 Championship title for the third consecutive time, securing a remarkable 3-0 victory over Pakistan at the Dasharath Stadium.
Manglenthang Kipgen’s outstanding performance propelled India’s win, as he scored two goals, with Gwgwmsar Goyari sealing the win with a third goal in injury time.
The runners-up, Pakistan, had reached the final in their first participation in the tournament. India and Pakistan made the final with wins on penalties in the semifinals. India defeated hosts Nepal while Pakistan trounced Bhutan in the final four.
India started the tournament defeating Bangladesh 3-0 in the group stage and overcoming Bhutan with a 2-1 win. Pakistan, on the other hand, started their campaign with a 1-0 victory against the host team Nepal but were held to a 1-1 draw against Maldives.
Six teams from South Asia, excluding Sri Lanka, participated in the competition, with Bangladesh and Maldives exiting during the group stage.
