THIMPHU, Sep 2: The India U-16 men’s team secured a hard-fought 1-0 win over Bangladesh to open its SAFF U16 Championship campaign here on Saturday.
The Ishfaq Ahmed-coached side, playing its first-ever international match, was kept at bay by some solid goalkeeping from Bangladesh’s Nahidul Islam before Thoungamba Singh Usham netted the winning goal in the 74th minute.
Most of India’s threat in the second half came from long-range efforts.
Lairenjam drove a half-volley from outside the box, which was strongly palmed away by Islam before Levis Zangminlun’s free-kick flew over the crossbar.
Samson Ahongshangbam was unlucky to not score a sensational goal as his thumping free-kick from 35 yards out rattled onto the bar.
However, just minutes later he joining his teammates as they rejoiced Usham’s breakthrough goal.
It materialised from substitute Manbhakupar Malngiang’s persistence in the final third as he stole the ball from an opponent’s feet before shooting on goal.
Islam saved it yet again, but Usham was the quickest to the rebound and carefully tucked it home.
India have a four-day rest before they face Nepal in their second and final group match on September 6. Bhutan, Pakistan and Maldives make up Group B.
Top two teams from both groups will qualify for the semifinals. (PTI)
