Manipur Triumphs After 25-Year Wait: Clinches Junior National Football Championship

In a thrilling conclusion to the Junior Boys' National Football Championship, Manipur emerged victorious over defending champions West Bengal, reclaiming the Dr. B.C. Roy Trophy with a 3-0 win. The victory marks a significant achievement for Manipur, ending a 25-year championship drought.

The final clash, held at Guru Nanak Dev University Sports Complex, saw Manipur take control early in the match. Lourembam Naocha Singh's 17th-minute goal set the tone, followed by Ngayungmi Kashung's strike in the 37th minute, giving them a solid 2-0 lead at halftime. Manipur's tactical discipline and pressing game troubled West Bengal, who struggled to mount any cohesive attacks.

Despite boasting tournament top-scorer Rajdeep Paul, West Bengal found it challenging to penetrate Manipur's defense. Manipur's Alex Oinam's crucial block in the 80th minute preserved their lead. Adding to their dominance, Amom Krish Singh scored in stoppage time, sealing the match and igniting celebrations on Manipur's bench.

(With inputs from agencies.)