Ukhrul, December 31, 2024: In a thrilling encounter etched in history, West Bengal FC clinched the much-awaited Santosh Trophy championship title after a eight-year gap, defeating Kerala FC 1-0 in a captivating final under the floodlights at Hyderabad on Tuesday. Robi Hansda scored the game’s lone goal during added time in the second half at the GMC Balayogi Athletic Stadium.
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Robi Hansda found the back of the net with an easy finish from point-blank range after Aditya Thapa headed the ball into the box. Following his game-winning goal, Hansda—a prolific striker who notched his 12th goal in the tournament’s 78th edition—celebrated by removing his jersey, which earned him an instant yellow card. During a post-match interview at the stadium, Hansda dedicated the winning goal to his father.
This goal secured his position as the tournament’s top scorer, capping off a stellar performance throughout the competition.
In the 58th minute, Bengal’s free kick narrowly missed the target, and in the 62nd minute, the team earned another free kick just outside the box, but that too failed to find the back of the net.
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After Bengal broke the deadlock, Kerala had a chance to equalize with a free kick, but it sailed over the crossbar, leaving the southern team disappointed.
West Bengal coach Sanjoy Sen expressed immense pride in bringing the Santosh Trophy back to Kolkata after seven years. He remarked, “In Bengal, winning the Santosh Trophy is everything. To finish as runners-up would be considered a failure. I was aware of the pressure but embraced the challenge. We had a completely young team, and they performed incredibly well throughout the tournament. Kudos to my boys for doing such a great job.”
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Mamata Banerjee also shared her excitement on X, stating, “After an eight-year wait, Bengal football begins 2025 on a triumphant note by reclaiming the prestigious Santosh Trophy for a record-breaking 33rd time!” She extended her heartfelt congratulations to coach Sanjoy Sen, captain Chaku Mandi, and the entire team.
Both West Bengal and Kerala reached the final undefeated, each playing 10 matches en route to the final, with identical records of nine wins and one draw. However, Bengal’s extra-time goal secured their historic victory, allowing them to start 2025 on a celebratory note.
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