QUICK TAKE | India vs Maldives: Seven Things to Know About the SAFF Championship Clash

1. What is the match about?

India take on Maldives in their final Group B match of the 15th SAFF Championship. India are defending the title they won in 2023 and are aiming for a record-extending 10th championship.

2. When and where is the match?

The match is scheduled for November 11 at 3 pm IST at the National Stadium in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

3. How has India performed so far?

India began their campaign with a 3-2 win over Pakistan on November 5. Suhail Ahmad Bhat scored twice, while Manglenthang Kipgen added the third goal.

4. What does India need to qualify?

A draw against Maldives will guarantee India a semi-final place and the top position in Group B. India enter the fixture with three points and a goal difference of +1.

5. Why is India fielding a relatively inexperienced squad?

The senior national team, coached by Khalid Jamil, is scheduled to play two international friendlies against New Zealand on November 12 and 15. The SAFF team is being coached by India Under-23 head coach Naushad Moosa.

6. How has Maldives performed?

Maldives lost their opening match 0-3 against Pakistan on November 8. They now need a strong result against India to keep their semi-final hopes alive.

7. What happens after the group stage?

The top two teams from each group advance to the semi-finals, scheduled for November 14. The final will take place on November 17. India won the 2023 edition, beating Kuwait in the final.