In a football masterclass, India's Under-16 team demonstrated sheer dominance, securing an astounding 8-0 win against the Maldives in the SAFF U-16 Championship semifinal on Friday, September 8.
Aiborlang Kharthangmaw and Mohammad Arbash were the stars of the match, scoring two goals each, propelling India's lead. Other scorers of the day included Vishal Yadav, Mohammed Kaif, Levis Zangminlun, and Manbhakupar Malngiang, each finding the net once and contributing to India's monumental win.
Right from the outset, the Blue Colts showcased tactical superiority, dominating possession and orchestrating several goal-scoring opportunities. The deadlock was finally broken in the 21st minute. An exquisite aerial assist from Karish Soram set up Vishal Yadav, who navigated past a few Maldivian defenders and precisely shot the ball into the net, marking India's first.
While the Maldives' custodian, Ahmed Mifzal, showcased resilience, particularly around the 30-minute mark, India extended their lead in the 36th minute. A well-executed corner kick by Mate Ngamgouhou found the head of Mohammed Kaif, taking the scoreline to 2-0 as they went into halftime.
The second half commenced with India continuing their relentless attack. Zangminlun notched the third goal in the 53rd minute, following an impeccable pass from Yaipharemba Chingkham.
Not one to remain complacent, India's coach Ishfaq Ahmed made strategic changes, introducing Kharthangmaw and Malngiang who further stamped India's dominance with goals in the 62nd and 70th minutes, respectively. In a further change, Ahmed introduced goalkeeper Rohit, replacing Suraj Singh.
The goal fest continued as Mohammad Arbash netted twice in quick succession in the 77th and 84th minutes, taking India's lead to an insurmountable 7-0. The match's final goal came from Kharthangmaw, completing his brace in the 82nd minute and wrapping up a comprehensive win.
With this victory, all eyes now turn to India's next challenge in the championship. They await the winner of the high-voltage semifinal between arch-rivals Pakistan and Bangladesh, setting the stage for an epic SAFF U-16 Championship final showdown on Sunday.
(With inputs from PTI, powered by AI)
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