National Football Championship for the Santosh Trophy: Semifinals Set After Quarterfinal Victories

On Tuesday, in Silapathar (Assam), Kerala, Punjab, Services, and Railways emerged victorious in their quarter-final matches to secure spots in the semifinals of the prestigious National Football Championship for the Santosh Trophy.

Services showcased their prowess by defeating defending champions West Bengal in a nail-biting encounter that ended in a 3-2 victory on penalties following a goalless draw in regular and extra time.

Kerala displayed a dominant performance against hosts Assam, securing a convincing 3-0 win with goals from Manoj M in the 17th minute, Muhammed Ajsal in the 44th minute, and Aboobacker Dilshad in the 90+2 minute.

In another thrilling match, Punjab emerged triumphant over Tamil Nadu in a penalty shootout, prevailing 4-1 after a 1-1 deadlock even after 30 minutes of extra time.

Meanwhile, Railways secured their spot in the semifinals with a 2-0 victory over Rajasthan, courtesy of late goals from Saurabh Bhanwala in the 78th minute and Joseph Mathews in the 83rd minute.

The stage is now set for the semifinals, with Services set to face off against Railways in the first semi-final at the Silapathar Stadium on Thursday, while Kerala will take on Punjab in the second semi-final at the Dhakuakhana Stadium on the same day.