athmandu, Aug. 20: Defending champions of SAFF U-20, India, kicked off their campaign at the 2nd SAFF U-20 Championship in Satdobato, Lalitpur, by defeating Bhutan in a heated clash on Monday.

The only goal scored in the 37th minute by India was the decider as none of the teams scored more. India capitalised on a corner kick as a tall ball entered the box allowing Monirul Molla to head it to the back of the net.

Indian players were seen as optimistic throughout the match as they were finding crosses into the box, passing their way to the box and even using long-range attempts to find a goal. 

On the other hand, despite showing some good dribbles and attempts to enter the opponent’s half, Bhutan had to wait long to find their first shot on frame; even though it was a shot from a freekick.

There were already several chances missed by India before the first and only goal while Bhutan struggled with possession. 

Nevertheless, Bhutan played differently in the second half. While the players were uncertain of attacking with pressure in the first 45 minutes, Bhutan did not show any reserve in the next 45 minutes.

However, Bhutan could not equalise. Similarly, India also failed to score any more despite some more chances. 

It was in the 69th minute that the match changed completely after the referee showed three red cards at once. The decision was a result of a scuffle between the players during a freekick by India. 

Bhutan’s Kinley Gyeltshen and India’s Pramveer and Vanlalpeka Guit were shown the red card after the referee consulted with other officials who checked the players’ reaction during the brawl. India was then reduced to nine players and Bhutan to 10.

Bhutan saw it as a major opportunity since the opponent was short of a man. Yet, India did not suffer. Plus, India was getting closer to extending the lead. 

The Bhutanese side was able to prevent India from scoring more and, as a return, they found a best chance to equalise in the final minutes, but did not capitalise. Zangpo had the chance in 90+10 minutes in the match where only 8 minutes of added time was informed, but his shot rebounded after hitting the bar. 

In the third match of the tournament, Sri Lanka is facing Bangladesh on August 20.