The first half of the SAFF U-17 Championship clash in Colombo on Saturday delivered everything from early drama to relentless attacking football, with India leading Bangladesh 2-1 at the break.
Bangladesh almost struck inside the opening minute when Arif’s effort was denied by goalkeeper Baruah, but it was India who made the breakthrough. In the fourth minute, Touthaang took a quick free kick that caught the defence off guard, and Guenleiba’s cross from the left dropped perfectly for Gangte to slot home.
The match grew increasingly physical, with Azlaan Shah booked in the 19th minute for a foul on Riduan. Moments later, Faysal came close with a low drive that rolled just past the far post. Bangladesh began to grow into the contest, pressing India high and creating chances of their own.
The equaliser came in the 24th minute. Faysal’s deflected shot led to a corner, and from the set-piece, Md Manik rose highest to nod the ball into the net. That goal energised Bangladesh, who suddenly looked sharper and more confident. On the 28th minute, Opu’s cross found Manik again, but Aimaan’s deflection kept India safe. From the resulting corner, Opu’s header almost sneaked in.
Bangladesh continued to threaten. In the 30th minute, Rifat Kazi delivered a cross that was parried by Baruah, and Faysal’s rebound was also stopped by the in-form keeper. At the other end, Gangte attempted an audacious bicycle kick after connecting with an Azlaan Shah cross, but it flew over the bar.
Bangladesh were denied again in the 33rd minute when Arif’s long-range strike was pushed away by Baruah. Two minutes later, Riduan whipped in a cross that beat the goalkeeper, only for Rifat Kazi to miss the finishing touch.
India regained the lead in the 39th minute after a lightning counter-attack. Guenleiba broke down the left and forced a save, but from the rebound Azlaan Shah made no mistake, slotting the ball home. It was a harsh blow for Bangladesh, who had dominated much of the play after the equaliser.
Still, Bangladesh refused to sit back. In the 41st minute, Faysal unleashed another dangerous shot that was deflected by Lawmsangzuala. Just before half-time, Ikramul was shown a yellow card for a foul as tensions rose between the two sides.
The opening 45 minutes were a true contest of tactical football and intensity. India pressed hard early on, but Bangladesh grew stronger with each passing minute, matching their rivals in organisation and creativity. With the scoreline delicately poised at 2-1, the second half promises another gripping battle as Bangladesh chase their dream of reclaiming the title they won in 2015 and 2018.
