One kick from the spot, one brave goalkeeper, and India are into the last four.
In the India vs Maldives SAFF Championship clash at the National Stadium in Dhaka on Wednesday, 11 November 2026, the Blue Tigers won 1-0. Suhail Ahmad Bhat scored the only goal from the penalty spot in the 38th minute. The win means India finish top of Group B with six points and book a semi-final place.
Key Highlights
- India beat Maldives 1-0 in their final Group B match in Dhaka
- Suhail Bhat scored a 38th-minute penalty – his third goal of the tournament
- Goalkeeper Priyansh Dubey made three key saves in the second half
- India top Group B with 6 points; Maldives are knocked out
- India’s semi-final is on 14 November 2026
How the Goal Came
India started brightly, and Bhat tested Maldives goalkeeper Hussain Shareef early with a near-post shot. The breakthrough came when Abdul Rabeeh won the ball from Hussain Sifaau Yoosuf inside the box and was fouled. Bhat stepped up and calmly sent Shareef the wrong way, placing the ball in the bottom-left corner.
Dubey the Hero at the Back
Maldives pushed hard after the break. Priyansh Dubey, who came into the side in place of Arsh Anwer Shaikh, kept them out. He saved an Ali Hamdhaan free-kick in the 79th minute and stopped a Muzdhaan Hassan shot around the 84th minute. In stoppage time, he rushed out and blocked Ethan Ibrahim Zaki’s close-range effort with his face.
One goal, one clean sheet, and India walk into the SAFF semi-finals as group toppers.
Seven Changes From Coach Moosa
Head coach Naushad Moosa made seven changes from the side that beat Pakistan. Chinglensana Singh Konsham wore the captain’s armband. After conceding twice in added time against Pakistan, Moosa had asked for better concentration and game management – and this time India held firm.
Group B at a Glance
| Team | Results | Points |
|---|---|---|
| India | Beat Pakistan 3-2, beat Maldives 1-0 | 6 |
| Pakistan | Lost to India 2-3 | 3 |
| Maldives | Lost to India 0-1 | 0 (out) |
Bhat’s Golden Run
Suhail Bhat now has three goals in the tournament. He scored a first-half brace in the 3-2 win over Pakistan, where Manglenthang Kipgen got the other goal. Bhat was replaced by Vishnu PV in the 65th minute against Maldives.
FAQs
Who scored for India against Maldives?
Suhail Ahmad Bhat scored a 38th-minute penalty.
Where was the match played?
At the National Stadium in Dhaka.
When is India’s SAFF semi-final?
On 14 November 2026. The opponent will be one of Bangladesh, Bhutan or Sri Lanka.
How many points did India get in Group B?
Six points from two wins.
Who do you want India to face in the semi-final? Tell us in the comments!
Details as reported by Khel Now and The Away End (AIFF Media).
