India kicked off their SAFF U20 Championship Group B campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Bhutan at the ANFA Complex in Lalitpur, Nepal. The match was marked by a dramatic second half that saw three red cards, including two for India, as the Blue Colts fought to preserve their lead.
India dominated possession from the outset, playing a high backline and controlling the tempo of the game. Gurnaj Singh Grewal had an early shot from distance that was saved by Bhutan goalkeeper Lhocho Nima. India looked threatening from set-pieces, with Kelvin Singh Taorem’s curling deliveries causing problems for the Bhutan defense. In the 14th minute, Taorem whipped in a free-kick that was headed just wide by Thomas Cherian.
Bhutan’s first shot of the match came in the 20th minute when captain Pema Zangpo set up Jignam Dorji, but his shot was blocked by Manjot Singh Dhami. India continued to press, with Korou Singh Thingujam narrowly missing the target with a dipping shot from outside the box.
The breakthrough finally came in the 37th minute when Kelvin Singh Taorem’s corner kick was met by a powerful header from Monirul Molla, sending the ball into the back of the net to give India a 1-0 lead.
The second half saw India continue to create chances, with Ebindas Yesudasan and Korou Singh Thingujam both coming close to extending the lead. However, the game took a dramatic turn in the 69th minute when a scuffle broke out between players from both sides, resulting in red cards for Bhutan’s Kinley Gyeltshen and India’s Pramveer and Vanlalpeka Guite, who had just come on as substitutes.
India was now down to nine men, but they managed to hold off a determined Bhutan attack. Jigme Namgyel came close to equalizing for Bhutan, hitting the side netting and then sending a low shot wide of the far post. In the 93rd minute, India had a chance to double their lead when Gwgwmsar Goyary set up Manglenthang Kipgen, but Kinley Penjoy was on hand to block the shot.
Despite being a man down, India managed to hold on for the win. It was a hard-fought victory for the Blue Colts, who showed great resilience and determination to overcome the challenge of the red cards and secure the three points.
