Dhaka:Suhail Ahmad Bhat's impressive performance secured a 3-2 win for India against Pakistan in the opening match of the SAFF Championship at the National Stadium. Bhat scored twice, helping India establish a lead despite Pakistan's late efforts to equalize.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Suhail Ahmad Bhat's goals marked his first for the Indian national team. His efforts were complemented by Manglenthang Kipgen, who also found the net, giving India a three-goal advantage before Pakistan's late resurgence. Najib Ullah and Alamgir Ghazi scored in stoppage time for Pakistan but were unable to level the score.
Pakistan missed a critical opportunity in the 35th minute when Shayek Dost's penalty kick sailed over the crossbar. Suhail Ahmad Bhat, who began his football journey with the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council football academy, celebrated his goals in a style reminiscent of Cristiano Ronaldo's "Siuu" celebration, donning the No. 7 shirt.
This victory marked India's ninth win over Pakistan in 13 SAFF Championship encounters, with Pakistan's sole victory against India dating back to 2003. Historically, India and Pakistan have faced each other 26 times, with India winning 17 of those matches.
The match drew around 2,000 spectators to the 22,000-capacity stadium. The SAFF Championship continues with hosts Bangladesh set to face Bhutan in Group A, while India and Pakistan compete in Group B alongside the Maldives.