India Dominate Maldives 3-0, Secure SAFF U17 Semi-Final Berth
India continued their dominant run at the SAFF U17 Championships, securing a 3-0 victory over Maldives in their second Group A match on Tuesday, September 25, 2024. The victory propelled India to the top of the group standings with six points, ensuring their qualification for the semi-finals.
The match began with India taking the initiative, and their efforts were rewarded in the 14th minute when Samson Ahongshangbam connected with a cross from Manbhakupar Malngiang to score a spectacular diving header. The goal gave India a 1-0 lead, which they held until halftime.
In the second half, India continued to press forward, and their persistence paid off in the 74th minute when substitute Hemneichung Lunkim doubled their lead. Lunkim capitalized on a fumble by Maldives goalkeeper Hassan Nasir to finish decisively.
Lunkim proved to be the star of the day, scoring his second goal in the 89th minute with a fine long-ranger that crashed against the net. The goal sealed India’s victory and earned Lunkim the man of the match award.
India’s head coach, Ishfaq Ahmed, made three changes to the starting lineup that played against Bangladesh, bringing in Karish Soram, Rishi Singh, and Malngianng. The changes paid off, as India controlled the game throughout and created numerous scoring opportunities.
Maldives, on the other hand, struggled to create chances and were unable to find a way past the Indian defense. The result leaves Maldives with no points after two matches, while India will face the runners-up from Group B in the first semi-final on September 28.