Yupia in Arunachal Pradesh came alive on May 9 as the SAFF U19 Men’s Football Championship 2025 kicked off with much fanfare at the Golden Jubilee Stadium. In a dream start to their campaign, India’s under-19 football team registered a stunning 8–0 victory over Sri Lanka, showcasing their supremacy on the field in a match that set the tone for the rest of the tournament. With a strong and well-coordinated display of attacking football, Team India outclassed the Sri Lankan side in all departments. From the very first whistle, the Indian players demonstrated pace, precision, and seamless coordination, keeping their opponents under constant pressure. Goals flowed steadily, much to the delight of the enthusiastic crowd that had gathered to witness the international youth tournament.
Despite being overwhelmed by the Indian attack, the Sri Lankan team displayed commendable spirit and sportsmanship. Their determination on the pitch and refusal to back down earned them the admiration of fans and officials alike, even as the scoreboard reflected a lopsided outcome. The inaugural match was held in the presence of top dignitaries including Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, and State Sports Minister Kento Jini, whose attendance added a ceremonial touch to the opening ceremony. Their presence also marked a significant moment for Arunachal Pradesh, which is increasingly emerging as a hub for sporting events in the Northeast. In his brief address, CM Khandu praised the organizing committee and expressed pride in hosting such a prestigious regional tournament. “We are honoured to host the SAFF U19 Championship in Arunachal. This event not only showcases the potential of young South Asian talent but also puts our state on the sports map of the country,” he said.
The tournament, which features teams from across South Asia, is being seen as a crucial platform for nurturing young football talent and promoting regional cooperation through sports. The upcoming matches promise more excitement, with Bangladesh set to face Bhutan at 4 PM, followed by Sri Lanka taking on Nepal at 7:30 PM on May 11. All matches are being held at the Golden Jubilee Stadium and will be live-streamed on the Sportzworkz YouTube channel, making them accessible to fans across the subcontinent.
