Bangladesh will face India in the final of SAFF U-17 Championship in Thimphu, Bhutan, on Monday at 6 PM.
Despite being successful in other age-group tournaments in South Asia, Bangladesh is yet to claim a title in the U-17 category.
In the inaugural edition in 2022, Bangladesh was eliminated by India in the semifinals, but this time they have made it to the final.
Earlier in group stage, Bangladesh lost to India due to a last-minute goal. In August, during the SAFF U-20 Championship, Bangladesh defeated India in the semifinals on penalties after a 1-1 draw.
As the U-17 players prepare for Monday's final, Coach Saiful Bari Titu acknowledged India's strength, calling them favorites, but expressed pride in his players and confidence in their abilities.
"Our players performed excellently in the semifinal against Pakistan, boosting our confidence," Titu said. "We lost to India in the group stage due to a goal after 90 minutes. This time, it's a final, and both teams will give their best. Our goal is to become champions, though it will be challenging."
