The India U-15 boys dominated the Bhutan U-15s with a 3-0 win as they reached the Final of the SAFF U-15 Championship today, August 25 at the Halchowk Ground in Kathmandu, Nepal. Vikram, Harpreet and Ridge being the goal scorers in the 20th, 75th and 91st minute respectively to secure the Indian victory.

India dominated from the word go with Vikram’s shot coming off the post in the 3rd minute itself. The boys strung successful passes but were unable to break the deadlock before Vikram’s powerful attempt from right outside the box found the back of the net.

The rest of the half was about close chances and missed targets as Bekey and Gurkirat both came close while Vikram was once again unlucky to find the post. The half ended with India leading 1-0.

India came out even stronger in the second half as the ball was kept mostly inside the Bhutan half of the field. Vikram and Ricky both saw their shots being saved as the second goal remained elusive for the rampant Indian side. Bekey made way for Harpreet in the 70th minute and substitute delivered when he ensured Ravi’s cross found the net in the 75th minute 2-0 to India.

The goal scorer Vikram was then replaced with Ridge Melvin and Basumatary making took Gurkirat’s place. The impact was almost immediate as the Bhutan goalie was forced to make a fine save to thwart Basumatary. Soon after Ridge scored the final goal to make it a 3-0 win for India.

The India U-15 boys will now face hosts Nepal U-15 in the final on Sunday, August 27.

(AIFF Media)