HT Bureau
ITANAGAR, May 2: Arunachal Pradesh is set to host the prestigious SAFF U-19 Championship 2025.
It is scheduled to take place this May at the Golden Jubilee Stadium in Yupia.
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The anticipation for the event reached a new high when the Indian U-19 National Football Team arrived at Donyi Polo Airport in Itanagar on Tuesday, where they were greeted with a warm reception from officials of the Arunachal Pradesh Football Association (APFA).
In an official statement, Kipa Ajay, Treasurer of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and General Secretary of the APFA, assured the media that the state is fully prepared to host the championship.
He said, “All necessary arrangements are in place to ensure a smooth and successful championship. This is a proud moment for Arunachal Pradesh to host such a significant football tournament.”
His remarks reflected the high level of preparation that has gone into making the event a success.
The tournament will feature six teams from across South Asia, bringing together the region’s best young football talent.
The opening match is expected to be an exciting showdown between India and Sri Lanka, setting the stage for a competitive and high-energy championship.
As the teams prepare for the challenge, the event promises to showcase the strength of youth football in South Asia.
In an especially significant development, Arunachal Pradesh’s own Omang Dodum has been selected to represent the Indian U-19 team.
His inclusion has sparked immense pride and excitement among local fans, highlighting the growing prominence of football in the state.
Omang’s participation is seen as a beacon of hope for aspiring athletes in Arunachal Pradesh, motivating young talent to pursue their dreams in football and other sports.
The warm reception for the Indian U-19 team continued in Naharlagun, where the Itanagar Municipal Corporation, led by Mayor Tamme Phassang, hosted a felicitation ceremony for the national squad at Hotel Dasang.
The event underscored the state’s enthusiastic support for the team and the SAFF U-19 Championship.
Local officials, players, and fans gathered to celebrate the event, further solidifying the sense of community and pride surrounding the upcoming tournament.
The SAFF U-19 Championship 2025 is not only an opportunity for Arunachal Pradesh to showcase its passion for football but also a chance for the state to demonstrate its capability in hosting major international sporting events.
The state’s preparation and excitement reflect its growing role as a hub for sports in the region. With the countdown to the event well underway, the entire state is rallying behind Team India, particularly in support of Omang Dodum and other local athletes who will represent the nation on the international stage.
As the tournament draws closer, the people of Arunachal Pradesh are eagerly anticipating the chance to witness top-tier football in their home state, marking a historic moment for both the region and Indian football.
