India edge Pakistan in SAFF Championship opener

Defending champions India began their SAFF Championship 2026 campaign with a 3-2 victory over Pakistan in their Group B opener at the National Stadium in Dhaka on Thursday.

India built a 3-0 lead in the first half through Suhail Ahmad Bhat, who scored twice in the 13th and 19th minutes, and Manglenthang Kipgen, who netted in the 31st minute.

Pakistan staged a late comeback, scoring twice in stoppage time through Najeeb Ullah (90+1) and Alamgir Ghazi (90+4), but failed to find an equaliser as India secured all three points.

The victory gives India a winning start to their title defence, while Pakistan suffered a defeat in their opening Group B fixture.