Malé, Maldives | April 3, 2026
Bangladesh emerged as champions of the SAFF U-20 Championship 2026, defeating arch-rivals India 4–3 in a dramatic penalty shootout after a goalless draw in regulation time. The final was held at the National Football Stadium in Malé.
Final Match Summary
- Champions: Bangladesh U-20
- Runners-up: India U-20
- Score: 0–0 (Bangladesh won 4–3 on penalties)
- Venue: National Football Stadium, Malé, Maldives
- Winning Penalty: Ronan Sullivan
- Tournament MVP: Omang Dodum
- Top Scorer: Omang Dodum and Mohamed Ilan Imran of Maldives (3 goals)
- Best Goal Keeper: MD Ismail Hossain Mahin
The final was a tense and evenly balanced affair, with both teams showing strong defensive organisation. Despite creating several chances, neither side could break the deadlock in regulation time. Bangladesh goalkeeper and defenders played a crucial role in nullifying India’s attacking threats, particularly in the second half.
Bangladesh’s path to the final included a 1–0 victory over Nepal in the semi-finals, while India reached the final after a dominant 5–0 win against Bhutan.
Officials from the Bangladesh Football Federation hailed the triumph as a major step forward for the country’s youth development programme. The championship win has sparked optimism that several players from this squad will soon graduate to the senior national team.
