DHAKA: Defending champions India began their SAFF Championship 2026 campaign with a 3-2 win over Pakistan in their Group B opener at the National Stadium in Dhaka on Thursday.
Suhail Ahmad Bhat scored twice in the first half before Manglenthang Kipgen added a third to put India 3-0 ahead. Pakistan mounted a late fightback with two stoppage-time goals but could not prevent India from taking all three points.
Bhat opened the scoring in the 13th minute, finishing from close range after Muhammad Suhail drove forward and delivered a cross into the penalty area. He doubled India's lead six minutes later, converting a through ball from Abhishek Suryavanshi.
Kipgen made it 3-0 in the 31st minute after Noufal PN played him through on goal. Pakistan had an opportunity to reduce the deficit when they were awarded a penalty, but Shayak Dost sent his effort over the crossbar.
India controlled much of the second half but failed to add to their lead. Pakistan capitalised in stoppage time, with Najeeb Ullah heading home in the 91st minute. Alamgir Ghazi scored a second three minutes later to make it 3-2, setting up a tense finish.
India held on to secure a winning start under head coach Naushad Moosa. The team is fielding a largely second-string squad, with several senior players unavailable as the main national side prepares for its friendlies against New Zealand.
India, nine-time champions, are aiming for a record-extending 10th SAFF title. They will face the Maldives in their next Group B fixture on November 11. Pakistan take on the Maldives on November 8.