West Bengal's Triumph: Santosh Trophy Secured in Thrilling Finale

West Bengal clinched their 33rd Santosh Trophy title with Robi Hansda's decisive goal against Kerala. The final showcased strategic plays, tense moments, and a nail-biting finish, ending 1-0. Hansda emerged as the tournament's top scorer, dedicating his crucial goal-driven victory to his father.

In a dramatic finale, West Bengal emerged victorious against Kerala to snatch their 33rd Santosh Trophy title, courtesy of Robi Hansda's last-minute goal at the Gachibowli Stadium. The 1-0 win added another feather to the state's rich football legacy, sending players into a jubilant celebration.

Hansda, a renowned striker, demonstrated his brilliance by scoring the match-deciding goal in the 78th edition of the tournament. This goal not only marked his 12th in the championship but also showcased his pivotal role in tipping the scales in West Bengal's favor. Overwhelmed with joy, Hansda celebrated by removing his shirt, incurring a yellow card, but his fearless play earned him both the Tulsidas Balaram Player of the Match and Peter Thangaraj Player of the Tournament awards.

The matchup remained fiercely balanced, with both teams exhibiting a cautious yet strategic approach, anticipating potential counterattacks while exploring defensive weaknesses. Manotos Maji's crucial header into the perfect spot found Hansda in an unmissable position to secure the victory. After a tense standoff that threatened to stretch into extra time or penalties, Hansda's heroics delivered a euphoric win for the West Bengal team, managed by coach Sanjoy Sen, who expressed pride in overcoming a seven-year title drought.

(With inputs from agencies.)