Arunachal Pradesh to Host First-Ever International Football Tournament Tonight

The tournament marks the first-ever international football event in the state, promising an exciting showcase of emerging talent from across South Asia.

The Golden Jubilee Stadium in Yupia, Arunachal Pradesh, will come alive today, as India faces Sri Lanka in Group B of the SAFF U19 Championship. The tournament marks the first-ever international football event in the state, promising an exciting showcase of emerging talent from across South Asia. In the tournament opener, Bangladesh will take on Maldives in a Group A clash at 4:00 PM, followed by the much-anticipated India vs. Sri Lanka match in Group B at 7:30 PM.

“We started our preparations two months ago. The players have worked really hard, and we will make sure to give our best in every game,” India’s head coach, Bibiano Fernandes, said in the pre-tournament press conference.

Fernandes has appointed 18-year-old midfielder Singamayum Shami as the team captain. Shami recently made history as the youngest goalscorer in Indian Super League history, scoring for Punjab FC in a 3-1 victory over Hyderabad FC just two months ago. This tournament will mark Shami’s debut for the national team at any level.

“The preparation has been good for us. We’ve been working hard in training, and I believe we can do well in the match. I’m excited to lead the team and ready for the challenge,” Shami said.

India, the defending champions, won the previous edition of the SAFF U19 Championship in 2023, defeating Pakistan 3-0 in the final. Despite this success, Fernandes dismissed the notion of being tournament favorites, emphasizing the team’s focus on one match at a time.

“There is no pressure. We know there will be expectations from the fans, but we are focusing on our strengths. This is a talented group, and I am proud of the work the scouting department has done to identify these players,” said the 48-year-old coach.

India’s opponents, Sri Lanka, have also prepared extensively, holding a one-month training camp under head coach Imran Mohamed. The Sri Lankan squad includes four overseas-based players, adding experience and strength to the team.

Captain Omith Edirisinghe, who plays in Australia, will lead the Sri Lankan side. Despite the challenge of facing India in the opening match, Edirisinghe remains optimistic.

“India are a strong team, but we have prepared well. We have a good mix of local and overseas players who have bonded well over the past month,” said Edirisinghe.

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