Ratings: Vishal Yadav, Kaif shine as India storm past Maldives in SAFF U-16 Championship semi-final

The Indian U-16 team scored 6 goals in the second half

In an impressive display of skill and determination, the India U-16 team emerged triumphant in the semifinal clash against Maldives with a 8 goal victory during the highly anticipated SAFF U-16 Championship 2023. With this resounding victory, the Indian team clinched a well-deserved spot in the final showdown.

The defending champions, who swept through the group stage, securing wins against Bangladesh and Nepal will now eye at a highly anticipated final clash on 10th September 2023, where they will face off against the winner of the other semifinal clash between Pakistan and Bangladesh.

India Player Ratings (By Gourav Samal)

Aheibam Suraj Singh - 6

The goalkeeper rarely had anything to do other than just passing the ball to the defenders as the possession was mostly held by the Indian team.

Karish Soram - 7 

Soram exhibited exceptional skill in delivering precise crosses, effectively creating numerous goal-scoring opportunities. His precise corner kick resulted in a remarkable goal being scored.

Mohammed Kaif - 8

He executed a remarkable goal with a header and demonstrated great efficacy in the midfield through his brilliant passing abilities.

Mate Ngamgouhou - 6.5

Ngamgouhou effortlessly showcased his exceptional defensive prowess, standing tall as an authoritative figure at the back and leaving no room for the opposition to penetrate his formidable backline.

Levis Zangminlun - 7

Levis proved to be an invaluable asset in the midfield for India, showcasing exceptional ball progression abilities with his precise and accurate passes. Dribbled across the defenders and scored a brilliant goal in the 53rd minute.

Md Arbash -  7

Arbash also played his part very well. He was mostly seen in the midfield region with effective passes. He also scored a goal with an exceptional header.

Bharat Lairenjam - 7

Bharat astounded with his exceptional agility and lightning-fast pace as he skillfully weaved through the midfield, effortlessly outmaneuvering the opposing defenders.

Vishal Yadav - 8

Dominating the field, he effortlessly secured the first goal for India, showcasing exceptional wing-play. Throughout the match, his impeccable skills in providing width and speed elevated the Indian team's offensive prowess, leaving the opponents in awe.

Samson Ahongshangbam - 7

Samson effortlessly showcased an exceptional ability to foster seamless and harmonious collaboration with his teammates, truly exemplifying his impressive expertise in establishing highly effective link-up play.

Yaipharemba Chingakham - 7

Chingakham was mostly effective in short passes in the game and demonstrated ideate skills to take the across the defenders in most of the situations. 

Thoungamba Singh Usham - 7

Usham played his part quite well while providing support to the frontline with his short and long passes. He was even seen with some brilliant crosses. 

Substitutes

AIBORLANG KHARTHANGMAW - 7

Kharthangmaw came in as a substitute and scored two brilliant goals that took the scoreline to a 8-0 mark.

ABDUL SALHA SHEERGOJRI - 5

Although there was less to do for the defenders in the match, he was never threatened by the Maldives forward at any instance.

KANGUJAM YOIHENBA MEITEI - 5

Meitiei exhibited commendable dribbling abilities as he adeptly maneuvered the ball, displaying precision and finesse before distributing it to his teammates.

MANBHAKUPAR MALNGIANG - 7

Malngiang made a brilliant tackle in the last minutes of play to keep the ball away from the Indian post.