India beat Bhutan 2-1 in the SAFF Championship 2026 semi-final at the National Stadium in Dhaka on Saturday, November 14, to reach the final and keep alive their pursuit of a record-extending 10th title, according to an All India Football Federation (AIFF) media release.

Source: AIFF media release, via Indian Economic Observer

Vishnu PV opened the scoring in the ninth minute, and captain Chinglensana Singh Konsham doubled the lead before the half-hour, smashing in from close range after Bhutan failed to clear a corner delivered by Manglenthang Kipgen, The Bridge reported.

Source: The Bridge

Bhutan, playing their first SAFF Championship semi-final in 18 years, fought back after the break. Kinzang Tashi Tobden scored in the 48th minute to make it 2-1 and set up a tense finish, but India's defence held firm.

The Video Assistant Referee (VAR), used in the competition for the first time, played a significant role in the match, overturning the offside decision against Bhutan's goal before cancelling a penalty awarded to India, according to the AIFF release.

Head coach Naushad Moosa made four changes to the side that had beaten Maldives in India's last group match, restoring Arsh Anwer Shaikh in goal and bringing in Vishnu, Manglenthang Kipgen and Nikhil Prabhu. India are fielding a young squad at the tournament, with the senior team engaged elsewhere, reports said.

The defending champions will face the winner of the other semi-final between hosts Bangladesh and Pakistan in the final on November 17. India are the most successful team in the SAFF Championship's history, with nine titles.