Did Kerala and Meghalaya Make a Statement in the Swami Vivekananda U20 Men’s NFC?
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Synopsis
Kerala and Meghalaya have begun their Swami Vivekananda U20 Men’s National Football Championship 2025 campaigns with impressive victories. Kerala's 8-1 win over Bihar and Meghalaya's 4-0 triumph over Rajasthan highlight the competitive spirit of this inaugural championship. As the tournament unfolds, expect more thrilling matches!
Key Takeaways
- Kerala won against Bihar with an 8-1 score.
- Meghalaya triumphed 4-0 over Rajasthan.
- Both teams lead Group A with three points.
- The championship features 32 states competing.
- Final match is on May 22.
Narainpur (Chhattisgarh), April 29 (NationPress) Kerala kicked off their Swami Vivekananda U20 Men’s National Football Championship 2025 with an astonishing 8-1 victory against Bihar in Group A at the Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama Ground on Tuesday. The other match in the group saw Meghalaya triumph 4-0 over Rajasthan.
Currently, Kerala and Meghalaya hold the top two positions in Group A, each with three points; however, Kerala leads on goal difference. Rajasthan sits in third place and Bihar is in fourth, both teams having earned one point.
In a commanding second half, Kerala showcased their prowess against Bihar, with Sreehari Unnikrishnan (16’, 45’) contributing a brace in the first half. Muhammed Shadil PP added two more goals in the second half (68’, 75’), while Mohammed Adhnan (53’), Calwin Thomas (59’), Alfas KE (90+1’), and Muhammed Shahil CK (90+3’) each netted once. Sadique Rahman provided the lone consolation goal for Bihar in the 84th minute.
In the other match, Meghalaya celebrated a comfortable 4-0 victory against Rajasthan thanks to a remarkable hat-trick by Deibormame Tongper (50’, 54’, 74’-p).
Meghalaya opened the scoring with a goal from Riborlang Lyngdoh Lyngkhoi in the 39th minute, who connected with a corner and unleashed a right-footed shot into the net.
The second half was dominated by Tongper, who notched his first goal with a classic tap-in, followed by a powerful strike for his second. A penalty in the 74th minute allowed him to complete his hat-trick.
On Monday, the hosts Chhattisgarh defeated Andaman & Nicobar 4-0 on the opening day of Group B at the Swami Vivekananda U20 Men's National Football Championship. In another Group B match, Gujarat overcame Tamil Nadu with a 2-1 scoreline.
A total of 32 states are participating in this championship, which will culminate in the final on May 22. This U20 Men’s National Championship marks a significant addition to the AIFF calendar, being the first inter-state tournament for this age group. The event is taking place at the expansive Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama in Narainpur, Chhattisgarh, which is equipped with a full-fledged football pitch, training facilities, and residential accommodations.
Point of View
I believe the commencement of the Swami Vivekananda U20 Men’s National Football Championship is a landmark moment for youth football in India. This tournament not only fosters talent but also unites states in healthy competition. The outstanding performances from Kerala and Meghalaya set a high bar for the rest of the teams, and I look forward to witnessing the unfolding drama of this championship.
NationPress
03/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key highlights of the Kerala vs Bihar match?
Kerala achieved a stunning 8-1 victory over Bihar, with notable contributions from Sreehari Unnikrishnan and Muhammed Shadil PP.
Who scored the hat-trick for Meghalaya?
Deibormame Tongper scored a hat-trick in Meghalaya's 4-0 win against Rajasthan.
Where is the championship being held?
The championship is taking place at the Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama Ground in Narainpur, Chhattisgarh.
What is the significance of the U20 Men’s National Championship?
This championship marks the first inter-state meet for U20 players, showcasing young talent across 32 participating states.
When will the final of the championship be held?
The final is scheduled for May 22, 2025.
