India Advances to SAFF Championship Final with 2-1 Victory Over Bhutan

Dhaka, November 14 (Daily Kiran) : India has secured its place in the final of the SAFF Championship by defeating Bhutan 2-1 in a thrilling semifinal match held in Dhaka on November 14, 2026. The Indian team, known as the Blue Tigers, will now face the winner of the second semifinal between Pakistan and Bangladesh.

The match began with an early lead for India, as P.V. Vishnu scored in the ninth minute following a precise pass from Khaiminthang Lungdim. India maintained its momentum, doubling its advantage around the half-hour mark. Chinglenasana Singh capitalized on a failed clearance from Bhutan after a corner kick, finding the back of the net.

By halftime, India was in a commanding 2-0 lead. However, Bhutan increased the pressure in the second half, aiming to score their first goal. Their efforts bore fruit in the 48th minute when Tobden headed in a goal from a Chencho Gyeltshen assist. Initially ruled offside, the goal was later confirmed after a VAR review.

India could have been awarded a penalty when the ball appeared to strike Nima Wangdi’s hand inside the box, but the decision was overturned. In the closing moments, Bhutan’s Suhail Bhatt hit the crossbar, but despite their late attempts, India held on for the 2-1 victory.

India has won the SAFF Championship title a record nine times and is the reigning champion, having clinched the title for the last two consecutive editions. The team has reached the final of every tournament since 2005. In contrast, Pakistan has never made it to the final, with their best performance being a third-place finish. Bangladesh won the title in 2003 and was the runner-up in 2005.