On Republic Day, India triumphed over Pakistan with a resounding 4-1 victory in the SAFF Futsal Championship 2026, clinching the silver medal. The win, which took place on Monday, January 26, 2026, saw India secure the runner-up position in the tournament.
The Indian team demonstrated their dominance, particularly after their 4-1 victory over Sri Lanka on January 25. In that match, all the goals were scored in the first half, with Seaon Dsouza bagging a brace in the 3rd and 20th minutes. Lalsawmpuia added another in the 10th minute, and captain Nikhil Mali scored in the 12th minute. Mohamed Kursheeth scored the solitary goal for Sri Lanka in the 19th minute.
Going into the final match against Pakistan, India aimed to secure the runner-up spot after Maldives had already secured the championship. Earlier in the tournament, India had a dominant 11-3 victory over Bhutan.
In the SAFF Women's Futsal Championship 2026, the Indian team also staged a comeback to defeat Pakistan 5-3. The match was held at the Nonthaburi Stadium in Thailand. Pakistan initially led twice and held a 3-1 advantage before India scored four goals in the final 12 minutes.
The SAFF Futsal Championship 2026 also saw Caitano Fernandes, the Goa Football Association (GFA) president, attending the SAFF Extra Ordinary Congress as an observer in Thailand. The Congress, chaired by SAFF president Kazi Md. Salahuddin, addressed important matters such as amendments to the SAFF Statutes and the election of committee members.
