How Did Punjab FC Secure the AIFF U-15 Junior League Title?
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Synopsis
Punjab FC has claimed the AIFF U-15 Junior League title after a thrilling 1-0 victory against Minerva Academy FC. Led by standout performances, including a crucial goal from Keisham Bikash Singh, the team showcases its formidable talent in youth football. This victory adds to their impressive season, marking a pivotal moment for the club.
Key Takeaways
- Punjab FC won the AIFF U-15 Junior League title.
- Keisham Bikash Singh scored the decisive goal in the final.
- The team displayed strong defensive tactics throughout the match.
- They have qualified for the National Championship in all age groups.
- This victory adds to their impressive season, including the U-17 Elite Youth League title.
Jamshedpur, May 28 (NationPress) Punjab FC triumphed over local foes Minerva Academy FC with a score of 1-0, claiming the AIFF U-15 Junior League 2024-25 championship at the JRD Tata Complex on Wednesday. A decisive first-half goal from Keisham Bikash Singh propelled the club to their second youth league title this season, complementing their recent victory in the AIFF U-17 Elite Youth League.
The solitary goal of the contest arrived in the 40th minute when Arambam Deepak Singh delivered a low cross from the right flank that the Minerva defense failed to clear effectively. The attempted clearance deflected off Bikash Singh, sending the ball into the bottom corner of the net.
Following this, the Cubs demonstrated a strong defensive performance, spearheaded by Khupkhanlian, Maibam Mangalsana Meitei, and Prabhjot Singh, all under the watchful eye of captain Jasmeet Singh in midfield. Prabhjot earned the Player of the Final accolade for his outstanding play. Goalkeeper Augustasya Gupta made several remarkable saves to preserve the lead.
In the quarterfinals, Punjab FC narrowly defeated Parappur FC, Kerala, 1-0, with Jasmeet Singh netting the decisive goal. They dominated East Bengal in the semi-finals, winning 5-1, with Keisham Bikash Singh scoring twice; Taibang Nganba Takhellambam, Prabhjot Singh, and Arambam Deepak Singh contributed the remaining goals.
Punjab FC qualified for the knockout stage by finishing second in Group C of the final round. After an initial setback against Minerva Academy FC (1-4), they rebounded with victories over Football 4 Change Academy, Manipur (4-1), and Jamshedpur FC (3-0), securing their place in the knockout rounds.
The team, coached by Sandeep Alhan, finished second in the North Zone Regional Group stage to reach the Playoffs of the Final Round. They scored eight unanswered goals against Namdhari Sports Academy and Bhaichung Bhutia Football Schools, and also defeated Sri Dashmesh Martial Sports Academy 4-0.
Their only loss occurred against Minerva Academy FC (1-6). In the Playoffs, Punjab FC overcame Kerala Blasters and Alchemy International FA, Bengaluru, both by 4-1 margins, to advance to the final round.
This season has been remarkable for Punjab FC’s youth teams, who have qualified for the National Championship across all age categories, in addition to winning the AIFF U-17 Elite Youth League earlier this month. They also claimed the Dream Sports Championship.
The Sub-Junior squad reached the semi-finals of the AIFF Sub-Junior League 2024-25, where they narrowly lost to FC Madras in a penalty shootout after a 0-0 deadlock in regulation time.
Point of View
Punjab FC's triumph in the AIFF U-15 Junior League highlights the importance of youth development in Indian football. Their achievements across multiple age groups not only bring pride to the club but also inspire future generations of players. The dedication and talent showcased by these young athletes reflect the growing competitiveness of Indian football on a national scale.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who scored the winning goal for Punjab FC?
The winning goal for Punjab FC was scored by Keisham Bikash Singh.
What was the final score of the match?
The final score of the match was 1-0 in favor of Punjab FC.
Where was the final match held?
The final match was held at the JRD Tata Complex in Jamshedpur.
How many youth league titles has Punjab FC won this season?
Punjab FC has won two youth league titles this season.
Who was named the Player of the Final?
Prabhjot Singh was named the Player of the Final for his outstanding performance.
