Will the Oriental Cup 2025 Make History in School Football?
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Synopsis
The Oriental Cup, a school football tournament founded by Fareed Bakshi, is back for its third season from July 21. With 36 teams participating, it promises to be an exciting event, fostering community and talent in Delhi's youth sports scene.
Key Takeaways
- 36 teams will compete in the Oriental Cup 2025.
- The tournament spans from July 21 to July 29.
- Held at the Dr. Ambedkar Stadium, it's a key event in Delhi’s sports calendar.
- Encourages community and sportsmanship among young athletes.
- Previous winners include Apex School and Sanskriti School.
New Delhi, July 17 (NationPress) The Oriental Cup, a promising school football tournament established by student-athlete Fareed Bakshi, has officially unveiled its third season on Thursday.
Set to take place from July 21 to July 29 at the renowned Dr. Ambedkar Stadium, this year's tournament will feature 36 teams from various schools in Delhi, with 24 teams competing in the boys’ (U-15) category and 12 teams in the girls’ (U-19) category. The event aims to provide an inclusive and structured environment for competitive school football.
The 2025 edition will follow a three-stage format, beginning with qualifying rounds, progressing through a league phase, and concluding with finals for both boys’ and girls’ divisions. The Oriental Cup is rapidly becoming a significant event on the school sports calendar in Delhi.
This tournament has already celebrated two successful seasons. The Air Force School, Subroto Park, and Apex School have each secured the boys’ titles in 2023 and 2024, while Sanskriti School has shown dominance in the girls’ division, winning both previous titles.
At the announcement event, co-founder Fareed Bakshi highlighted the tournament's broader mission. “The Oriental Cup is more than just a competition. It’s about cultivating a space where school athletes throughout Delhi can play, develop, and foster a sense of community through football. We are eager to welcome new teams and enhance the legacy we initiated just two years ago.”
During the press conference, Rizwan-ul-Haq, Vice President of the Delhi Soccer Association, praised the tournament's growing influence. “The Delhi Soccer Association is thrilled to support the initiative by Mr. Fareed Bakshi in establishing this school-level football tournament three years ago. Since its launch, the tournament has exhibited remarkable growth annually, significantly contributing to the advancement of youth football in Delhi. Such initiatives provide young athletes with an essential platform to showcase their skills and potential,” he stated.
The organizers encourage students, coaches, and football enthusiasts from across Delhi to follow the tournament, support their schools, and engage in a burgeoning movement focused on nurturing football talent and promoting sportsmanship.
Point of View
I believe the Oriental Cup is a crucial initiative that not only promotes sports but also fosters community among young athletes in Delhi. By providing a platform for competition and camaraderie, it significantly contributes to the development of youth football, setting a standard for future sporting events in the region.
NationPress
17/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Oriental Cup?
The Oriental Cup is a school-level football tournament in Delhi, founded by student-athlete Fareed Bakshi, aimed at providing a competitive platform for young athletes.
When does the 2025 season take place?
The 2025 season of the Oriental Cup is scheduled from July 21 to July 29.
How many teams will participate?
This year, 36 teams will participate, with 24 teams in the boys’ (U-15) category and 12 teams in the girls’ (U-19) category.
Where will the tournament be held?
The tournament will be held at the renowned Dr. Ambedkar Stadium in Delhi.
Who has won the previous seasons?
In the past two seasons, Air Force School, Subroto Park, and Apex School have claimed boys’ titles, while Sanskriti School has won the girls’ title twice.
