West Bengal Triumphs Over Kerala to Win 33rd Santosh Trophy Title
West Bengal has triumphed over Kerala with a narrow 1-0 victory in the final of the 78th Santosh Trophy, securing their 33rd title in this prestigious national football championship. The match took place on December 31, 2024, at the GMC Balayogi Stadium in Hyderabad.
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| Bengal beat Kerala in final to win 33rd Santosh Trophy title |
Match Highlights
The Decisive Goal
The only goal of the match was scored by Robi Hansda in the dying moments of the game, specifically in the 94th minute of added time. Hansda capitalized on a defensive lapse from Kerala, finishing from close range after a well-placed header from teammate Aditya Thapa. This goal not only clinched the title for West Bengal but also marked Hansda's 12th goal of the tournament, making him the top scorer of the competition.
Game Dynamics
The match was tightly contested, with both teams displaying strong defensive strategies throughout the first half, resulting in a 0-0 stalemate at halftime. The second half saw increased intensity, with both sides creating several scoring opportunities. However, it was West Bengal that ultimately broke through, delivering a decisive blow to their rivals.
Historical Context
This victory is particularly significant as it avenges West Bengal's previous losses to Kerala in recent finals, including defeats in the 2017-18 and 2021-22 editions of the Santosh Trophy. Historically, West Bengal has been dominant in this tournament, and this win further cements their legacy as the most successful team in Santosh Trophy history.
Awards and Recognition
In addition to winning the trophy and a cash prize of INR 5 lakhs, Robi Hansda received two individual awards:
- Peter Thangaraj Player of the Championship
- Tulsidas Balaram Player of the Final Match
These accolades underscore his pivotal role in West Bengal's success throughout the tournament.
Conclusion
West Bengal's victory in the Santosh Trophy final not only adds another title to their illustrious history but also showcases their resilience and skill on the football field. As they celebrate this achievement, they reaffirm their status as a powerhouse in Indian football.
For more details on this match and its implications for Indian football, you can refer to sources like Republic World and Football Counter.
