India Gears Up for SAFF U-19 Championship 2025 Amidst Pakistan’s Absence

The Indian U-19 football team has landed in Arunachal Pradesh to compete in the SAFF U-19 Championship 2025, an event marked by the notable absence of Pakistan, last edition’s runners-up.

Pakistan’s non-participation stems from a FIFA-imposed ban on the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) earlier this year. FIFA had suspended the PFF in February for its failure to adopt a revised constitution, effectively ruling Pakistan out of the tournament. Although the ban was lifted on March 3, the delay meant Pakistan could not organize its squad in time for the championship.

In the 2023 edition, Pakistan had a strong showing, reaching the final but losing 0-3 to defending champions India. Their absence this year leaves Group B featuring only three teams—India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal—while Group A comprises Maldives, Bhutan, and Bangladesh.

India, the host nation, will kick off its campaign against Sri Lanka on May 9, followed by a clash with Nepal on May 13. The top two teams from each group will progress to the semifinals scheduled for May 16, with the championship final set for May 18.

India’s squad, coached by Bibiano Fernandes, is a mix of promising talents from across the country. Goalkeepers Aarush Hari, Aheibam Suraj Singh, and Rohit are tasked with guarding the posts, while a solid defensive lineup includes names like Ashik Adhikari, Mohammed Kaif, and Roshan Singh Thangjam.

The midfield will be anchored by players such as Danny Meitei Laishram and Gurnaj Singh Grewal, while the forward line features a dynamic combination of Ahongshangbam Samson, Prashan Jajo, and Yohaan Benjamin.

Supporting Fernandes in the dugout are assistant coach Remus Gomes, goalkeeper coach Dipankar Choudhury, and strength and conditioning coach Chelston Pinto.

The home advantage and strong squad depth make India one of the favorites to retain the title. However, with regional rivals eager to make a mark, the championship promises an exciting contest despite the absence of a traditional powerhouse like Pakistan.

The picturesque state of Arunachal Pradesh will now set the stage for South Asia’s budding football talent, as the region hosts this prestigious age-group tournament for the first time.

India squad for SAFF U-19 Championship 2025

Goalkeepers: Aarush Hari, Aheibam Suraj Singh, Rohit.

Defenders: Ashik Adhikari, Takhellambam Bungson Singh, Jodric Abranches, Malemngamba Singh Thokchom, Mohammed Kaif, Sumit Sharma Brahmacharimayum, Sohum Utreja, Roshan Singh Thangjam.

Midfielders: Danny Meitei Laishram, Gurnaj Singh Grewal, Md Arbash, Ningthoukhongjam Rishi Singh, Singamayum Shami.

Forwards: Ahongshangbam Samson, Bharat Lairenjam, Chaphamayum Rohen Singh, Omang Dodum, Prashan Jajo, Hemneichung Lunkim, Yohaan Benjamin.

Head coach: Bibiano Fernandes

Assistant coach: Remus Gomes

Goalkeeper coach: Dipankar Choudhury

Strength and conditioning coach: Chelston Pinto