Understandably, the Young Colts arrived in the Maldives capital on Monday and quickly shifted their focus to preparations for the tournament. Placed in Group B alongside Pakistan and Bangladesh, India face a tight schedule in a three-team group where every point is vital. India will meet Bangladesh in their second match on March 28. With only two fixtures in the group, a single victory could prove decisive in securing a place in the semi-finals.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The stakes were heightened further after Bangladesh defeated Pakistan 2-0 in the first Group B encounter. That result means Pakistan enter Thursday\u2019s match needing a win to keep their knockout hopes alive. India, therefore, can expect a determined opponent, making the contest rather tricky despite their strong credentials.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
India U20 coach Mahesh Gawali emphasised starting the tournament on a positive note. \u201cIndia versus Pakistan is always a big match, but for us, we are treating it like any other game. Every match is important for us. So the focus is on starting the tournament well and making a positive beginning. At the same time, we need to be cautious and play with composure and discipline,\u201d Gawali said ahead of the match.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
India, though, come into the tournament as one of the favourites, carrying an impressive pedigree in the age-group competition. The Blue Colts are four-time champions, having lifted the title in 2019, 2022, 2023, and 2025. That history brings both confidence and expectation, and the current squad will look to continue the winning tradition. \u201cWe do have some experienced players in the squad, but this is a fresh start for everyone. Football does not go by history. What you do on the day matters. So, we have to stay focused and perform well,\u201d said Gawali.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The championship also serves as preparation for the upcoming AFC U20 Asian Cup qualifiers, but the focus within the Indian camp remains firmly on the immediate challenge. \u201cWe want to take it match by match and do our best in this competition,\u201d said Gawali.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Pakistan, meanwhile, are known for their physical style of play and will aim to use their strength to disrupt India\u2019s rhythm. At the same time, many of their players are only in their second international appearance, which means the side lacks experience at this level. \u201cPakistan are a decent side. They gel well and have good young players. But we will try to give our best,\u201d said Gawali.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The championship also serves as preparation for the upcoming AFC U20 Asian Cup qualifiers, but the focus within the Indian camp remains firmly on the immediate challenge. \u201cWe want to take it match by match and do our best in this competition,\u201d said Gawali.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
With rivalry, qualification stakes, and momentum all in play, Thursday\u2019s encounter promises to set the tone for Group B.<\/p>\r\n\r\n