APL

When Afghanistan first made their entry to the SAFF tournament along with Bhutan in 2005, they were considered as minnows. Even in later editions they hadn’t performed very well to erase such a tag. But recently, there has been a change and it’s evident in their results. They finally announced themselves to the football world in the 2013 edition of SAFF tournament.

Afghanistan were drawn into group B along with Maldives, Sri Lanka and Bhutan. Maldives were in fine form in the group stages, going on to thrash Sri Lanka 10-0 in one of the games. As expected, Afghanistan had to settle for second place going into the knock out stage.

A single goal from Ahmedi was deemed enough for Afghanistan to see off Nepal in the semi-final and to set up a final face off against India. It was rematch of the final of the previous edition of the tournament. Back then, Afghanistan had suffered a 4-0 defeat at the hands of India. There was no repeat of such a performance this time around from the Lions of Khorasan, as goals from Azadzoy and Ahmadi in either halves of the match ensured a good victory in the final.Afghanistan had risen to become one of the best teams in South Asia and with the SAFF title they had announced themselves to the world.

When winners from the past take to the field for SAFF Suzuki Cup 2015, the experience of having tasted glory once might help them during the campaign and defend their title this year. Afghanistan's first game is against Bangladesh on 24th December 2015.