Sports
India Can Reach SAFF Semifinals With a Point Against Maldives
India will face the Maldives in their final Group B match at the National Stadium in Dhaka on Wednesday. A draw is all that is required for the defending champions to advance to the SAFF Championship semifinals, and they can even afford a narrow defeat. One point will secure India’s place in the last four and make them group winners.
India finished Group B with three points and a goal difference of +1 after a 3‑2 win over Pakistan on November 5, in which Suhail Bhat scored twice. Pakistan also has three points but a +2 goal difference after beating the Maldives 3‑0 on Sunday. The Maldives are currently without points and have a -3 goal difference.
Only the top two teams from each group of three move on. If India loses by fewer than three goals, they will still qualify. A Maldives win would leave all three teams on three points, and the tiebreakers would then be head‑to‑head record, goal difference in the matches between the tied teams, and goals scored in those matches. Under the current standings, India would only be eliminated by a defeat of three or more goals.
The result will also determine the semifinal pairings. If India win or draw, they will top the group and Pakistan will finish second. A Maldives win would likely put Pakistan at the top of Group B.
India will field a second‑string squad under Under‑23 coach Naushad Moosa, as the senior team is in New Zealand for two friendlies. Chinglensana Singh will captain the side, with Suhail Bhat starting up front.
India have a strong head‑to‑head record against the Maldives, winning 16 of 22 meetings. They have claimed nine SAFF titles, most recently in 2023, and are chasing a record‑extending 10th title in Dhaka.
The hosts, Bangladesh, lead Group A and will play Sri Lanka later on Wednesday. Both semifinals are scheduled for Saturday, November 14, and the final will be held on Tuesday, November 17.
Frequently asked questions
What does India need from the match against Maldives to reach the SAFF Championship semifinals?
India only needs a point – a draw or a narrow defeat – to secure a place in the semifinals and potentially top Group B.
Who is coaching India's squad for the final Group B match?
The squad is led by Under‑23 coach Naushad Moosa, as the senior team is in New Zealand for friendlies.
When are the SAFF Championship semifinals and final scheduled?
Both semifinals are scheduled for Saturday, November 14, and the final will be held on Tuesday, November 17.