Dhaka, November 14, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
India defeated Bhutan 2-1 in the SAFF Championship semifinals at the National Stadium in Dhaka on Saturday to book their place in the final.
P.V. Vishnu and Chinglensana Singh scored for India, while Kinzang Tashi Tobden pulled one back for Bhutan. The defending champions held on to their lead to secure the victory.
India took the lead in the ninth minute when Vishnu found the net following an assist from Khaiminthang Lhungdim. The Blue Tigers doubled their advantage close to the half-hour mark, with Chinglensana scoring after Bhutan failed to clear a corner.
India went into half-time with a 2-0 lead, but Bhutan responded strongly after the break. Tobden headed home a delivery from Chencho Gyeltshen in the 48th minute. Although the assistant referee initially raised the offside flag, the goal was allowed following a VAR review.
India had another opportunity to extend their lead when Nima Wangdi was penalised for handling the ball inside the box, but the penalty decision was overturned. Suhail Bhat later struck the crossbar as India held on to their 2-1 advantage.
India will now face the winner of the other semifinal between Pakistan and Bangladesh in the final.
India are the most successful team in the SAFF Championship, having won the title nine times. They are also the two-time defending champions and have reached the final in every edition since 2005.
Pakistan have never reached the tournament final, with their best finish being third place. Bangladesh have won the title once, in 2003, and were also runners-up in 2005.
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