Maldives set to ignite South Asian youth football as hosts of SAFF U-20 Championship this March
5 ފެބުރުއަރީ 2026 | ބުރާސްފަތި 11:20Maldives will begin its tournament journey against Sri Lanka in the opening game. This encounter will be followed by group-stage fixtures against Bhutan and Nepal as the hosts aim to secure a place in the knockout rounds.
Scenes from the open trials currently underway to select the Under-20 National Team. | Social Media
The SAFF U-20 Championship is set to take place in the Maldives this coming March, marking an exciting moment for youth football in the region. This prestigious regional tournament, which brings together youth teams from across South Asia, will run from March 23 through April 3.
A total of seven nations will compete in the championship, with teams divided into two groups. Group A includes host nation Maldives, along with Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka. Group B will feature Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan, setting the stage for a competitive and closely contested group phase.
Following the conclusion of the group stage, the top two teams from each group will progress to the semifinals. In the first semifinal, the winner of Group A will take on the runner-up of Group B, while the second semifinal will see the winner of Group B face the runner-up of Group A.
Maldives will begin its tournament journey against Sri Lanka in the opening game. This encounter will be followed by group-stage fixtures against Bhutan and Nepal as the hosts aim to secure a place in the knockout rounds.
As preparations for the championship continue, the Football Association of Maldives (FAM) has already launched the squad selection process. Special trials are currently underway to identify and recruit players for the national youth team, underscoring the nation’s commitment to fielding a strong and competitive side for the tournament.
