17 August 2024, Kathmandu. The SAFF U-20 Championship 2024 is set to begin on August 18, 2024, in Nepal, with the host nation welcoming top youth football teams from South Asia. This year’s tournament will take place at the ANFA Complex in Kathmandu, with six teams participating: Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, India, and the Maldives.
Unfortunately, Pakistan, initially set to compete, withdrew from the tournament on July 11, 2024, due to internal logistical challenges. Despite their absence, the competition is expected to be fierce, with defending champions India and runners-up Bangladesh returning to vie for the coveted title.
The opening match will see host nation Nepal face off against Sri Lanka at 4 PM on August 18 at the ANFA Complex, in what is expected to be an electric atmosphere. As a result of home support, Nepal will be hoping to make a strong start to the tournament, while Sri Lanka hopes to spoil the party.
India, the reigning champions, will be aiming to defend their title, while Bangladesh, last year’s runner-up, will be eager to go one step further this time around. Bhutan and the Maldives are also hoping to make their mark in the competition.
The SAFF U-20 Championship serves as a critical platform for emerging football talent across South Asia, with many players using the tournament as a stepping stone to senior international football. The tournament not only promotes youth development but also strengthens football ties between the nations involved.
With the action set to begin shortly, fans are eagerly anticipating what promises to be an exciting and competitive tournament.
