India clinched their seventh SAFF U-17 Championship crown, holding their nerves to edge past Bangladesh 4-1 in a tense penalty shootout, in Colombo, on Saturday.
In a contest where the India led 2-1 at half-time with goals from Dallamuon Gangte (4') and Azlaan Shah KH (38'), Bangladesh clawed back with a last-minute equaliser from Ihsan Habib Riduan to level things up at 2-2 and force a shootout.
But it was the Blue Colts who held their composure when it mattered the most.
The penalty shootout saw India showing maturity beyond their age at the Racecourse International Stadium.
Gangte, Korou Meitei Konthoujam, and Indra Rana Magar converted with aplomb before Shubham Poonia slotted home the decisive fourth kick.
In contrast, Bangladesh crumbled under pressure. Md Ikramul Islam struck the crossbar while Md Azam Khan saw his effort saved by Manashjyoti Baruah, and although Md Manik converted their third attempt, it was too late.
India erupted in celebration, reclaiming their throne in emphatic fashion.