J&K Football team scripts fairytale run

Srinagar, Aug 08: In a historic achievement, the Jammu and Kashmir Junior Football Team has qualified for the semi-finals of the Junior National Football Championship for the Dr. B.C. Roy Trophy 2024-25. This is the first time in 48 years that the J&K team has advanced to the competition's second round, the last time being in 1976.

The J&K team, coached by Satpal Singh Kala, defeated Tripura 6-2 at the Nurul Amin Stadium Ground 2 in Nagaon, Assam, in a thrilling quarterfinal match. The victory was a testament to the team's exceptional skills, teamwork, and determination.

Sahil Hussain Bhat opened the scoring for J&K in the 18th minute, but Tripura equalized before halftime through Amarjit Debbarma. In the second half, Zeeshan Anwar Lone and Mir Mujhtuba Hussain scored for J&K, putting them 3-1 up. Tripura's Amarjit Debbarma pulled one back, but Abrar Ali Baba's brace and a goal from Aazim Parveez Najar sealed the 6-2 victory for J&K.

Abrar Ali Baba was named the player of the match for his outstanding performance, which included two crucial goals.

The J&K team has been in impressive form throughout the tournament. In the group stages, they won three matches, drew one, and scored 15 goals while conceding only 5.

"This achievement is a significant milestone for J&K football, inspiring young athletes and bringing pride to the region," said the team's coach, Satpal Singh Kala. "The team's success after 48 years is a testament to their hard work and the support they received from fans and officials."

As J&K prepares for the semi-finals, the excitement continues to build. The team's journey has captured the attention of football enthusiasts, and their performance has set a high standard for future competitions.