In a second match of SAFF U20 Championship 2024 Group B campaign, India secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Bhutan at the ANFA Complex in Lalitpur, Nepal. Despite being reduced to nine men by the 69th minute, the Indian team displayed incredible resilience to hold onto their lead.
Monirul Molla’s Early Heroics
The match’s decisive moment came in the 37th minute when Monirul Molla powered a header into the bottom corner, giving India the lead. Kelvin Singh Taorem, who was instrumental throughout the match with his precise set-piece deliveries, floated a perfect corner that Molla capitalized on, leaving the Bhutanese defense flat-footed.
A Fiery Encounter: Three Red Cards
India dominated the early stages, maintaining control of possession and creating multiple chances. However, the match took a heated turn in the 64th minute. A scuffle between players resulted in three red cards—two for India and one for Bhutan—drastically altering the dynamics of the game. India’s Pramveer and Vanlalpeka Guite, who had just entered the match, were sent off alongside Bhutan’s Kinley Gyeltshen.
Bhutan’s Fightback Falls Short
With a numerical advantage, Bhutan intensified their attacks, but the Indian defense held firm. Jigme Namgyel and Rigzin Dorji came close to equalizing, with Namgyel hitting the side netting and Dorji forcing a crucial save from Indian goalkeeper Priyansh Dubey. In the dying minutes of injury time, Bhutan almost leveled the score when Pema Zangpo’s shot struck the post.
India’s Tactical Edge
India’s strategy was clear from the start. They pressed high, controlling the game’s tempo and creating chances from set-pieces. Gurnaj Singh Grewal’s audacious 40-yard shot early in the game set the tone, while Kelvin Singh’s dangerous crosses kept the Bhutanese defense under constant pressure.
Even after being reduced to nine men, India did not abandon their attacking intent. Monirul Molla nearly doubled the lead with a solo run, only to be denied by Bhutan’s goalkeeper, Lhocho Nima.
A Promising Start for the Blue Colts
This victory, though hard-earned, marks a positive start for India in the SAFF U20 Championship 2024. The team showcased their depth, discipline, and determination, qualities that will be crucial as they advance in the tournament. India will look to carry this momentum into their next group stage match, with hopes of securing a spot in the knockout rounds.