West Bengal Claims 33rd Santosh Trophy Final Title with Victory Over Kerala

In a thrilling finale of the National Football Championship for Santosh Trophy Final, West Bengal reaffirmed their dominance by defeating Kerala 1-0 at the GMC Balayogi Athletic Stadium on Tuesday. This victory marked West Bengal’s unprecedented 33rd Santosh Trophy title, further solidifying their legacy in Indian football.

Robi Hansda’s Decisive Goal

The match remained fiercely contested until added time in the second half, when Robi Hansda stepped up to secure the win for Bengal. He capitalized on a perfectly placed header into the box by Aditya Thapa, scoring from point-blank range with a clinical finish that left Kerala’s defense helpless.

A Tale of Two Giants

Both West Bengal and Kerala showcased their prowess throughout the tournament, living up to their reputations as football powerhouses. Each team had an impressive run, winning nine of their ten matches and drawing one, setting the stage for an electrifying final.

Historical Rivalry Rekindled

West Bengal has long been the dominant force in the Santosh Trophy, but in recent years, Kerala had gained the upper hand. Kerala triumphed over Bengal in the finals of the 2017-18 and 2021-22 editions, claiming their seventh title in the process. Tuesday’s match served as a moment of redemption for Bengal, who ended Kerala’s recent streak of success with their solitary goal.

Significance of the Win

This victory is not just another trophy for West Bengal; it is a testament to their enduring supremacy in Indian football. With 33 titles, Bengal continues to set a benchmark that is unmatched in the history of the Santosh Trophy.

As the dust settles on this year’s championship, the match will be remembered as a battle of skill, strategy, and resilience, with West Bengal emerging victorious and reclaiming their throne at the pinnacle of Indian football.