Yupia, May 10 -- Rare as they are for a player, hat-tricks make matches memorable, especially if they are in international football. Midfielder Danny Meitei Laishram had his moment under the sun, or rather, under the floodlights at the Golden Jubilee Stadium in Yupia, as enthusiastic fans from Arunachal Pradesh, Chief Minister Pema Khandu among them, witnessed India defeat Sri Lanka 8-0 in their first match of the SAFF U19 Championship 2025.

The India number 17 became an instant hit among the local fans. Post match, many requested Danny for selfies, autographs, jersey, Instagram account, phone number and whatnot. The 17-year-old obliged with a few selfies, all while holding the match ball close to his chest. He wouldn't stay an inch away...