In a thrilling finale at the Golden Jubilee Stadium in Yupia, Arunachal Pradesh, India’s U19 men’s football team clinched the SAFF U19 Championship title, defeating Bangladesh in a dramatic 5-4 penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in regulation time. Head coach Bibiano Fernandes attributed the team’s success to the unwavering support of the Arunachal Pradesh fans, who turned out in large numbers despite challenging weather conditions.
Fernandes praised the local crowd, stating that their passionate support was a game-changer for the young squad. “The fans in Arunachal Pradesh were incredible. I’ve never seen such a turnout for a junior-level match in India,” he said at the post-match press conference. “Their energy lifted our players and drove us to perform at our best. This victory is for them.”
The match, part of Arunachal Pradesh’s first-ever international football tournament, showcased the state’s love for the sport. India took an early lead through captain Singamayum Shami in the second minute, but Bangladesh equalized in the 61st minute via Md Joy Ahamed. The Blue Colts held their nerve in the penalty shootout, securing their record-extending 10th SAFF age-group title.
Fernandes highlighted the team’s resilience, noting their “tremendous character” in the face of a tough opponent. He also expressed gratitude to the Arunachal Pradesh Football Association (APFA), the All India Football Federation (AIFF), and the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) for organizing the event, which he believes will inspire more local youth to pursue football.
The tournament, held from May 9 to 18, marked a historic moment for Arunachal Pradesh, with the Golden Jubilee Stadium hosting teams from India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and the Maldives. Despite heavy rainfall, fans remained steadfast, with Fernandes noting their presence even during the rain-soaked semi-final against the Maldives, which India won 3-0.
Local pride was further amplified by the performance of Arunachal’s own Omang Dodum, a forward in the Indian squad. Fernandes expressed hope that the event’s success would lead to more players like Dodum emerging from the region. “This atmosphere will motivate youngsters to dream of playing for the national team,” he said.
The Blue Colts now look ahead to the AFC U20 Asian Cup Qualifiers next year, with Fernandes optimistic about India’s footballing future. “With proper development, India has the talent to one day qualify for the World Cup,” he said. Social media posts on X echoed the sentiment, with fans and observers celebrating Arunachal’s role in the victory and the state’s growing prominence in Indian football.
