Santosh Trophy 2025-26: Kerala and Meghalaya Start Campaign with Wins

The 79th Santosh Trophy, India's premier state football tournament, has commenced with excitement, as Group B teams took to the field on the second day of matches. The event, held in January 2026, witnessed thrilling encounters, comebacks, and competitive football.

Kerala's Comeback Victory over Punjab

Kerala, one of the favorites for the trophy, demonstrated their depth and experience in a hard-fought 3-1 victory over Punjab. The match began on an unexpected note as Punjab took an early lead, but Kerala responded with a resilient display and dominated the second half to secure the win.

Meghalaya's Tight Win Against Odisha

In another closely contested match, Meghalaya edged past Odisha 1-0, with the winning goal coming in the first half. Meghalaya's solid brand of football and effective counter-attacking kept Odisha at bay, earning them a valuable three points in their opening fixture.

Services and Railways Play Out a Draw

The final Group B fixture of the day saw Services and Railways battle it out to a 1-1 draw. Both teams showcased impressive skill and determination, with Services taking an early lead through a stunning free-kick by Wangden Tamang, only for Railways to equalize late in the game.

Relevance to the North East Region and India

The Santosh Trophy is a significant event for the Indian football landscape, providing an opportunity for state teams to showcase their talent and compete against each other. The North East region, with its rich football culture and numerous talented players, has consistently produced strong performances in the tournament.

Looking Forward

As the Santosh Trophy 2025-26 continues, the North East region will be closely watching the performances of teams like Kerala and Meghalaya. The tournament serves as a platform for these teams to gain national recognition and further promote the growth of football in the region.