Team Herald
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MAPUSA: Bengaluru Football Club emerged champions of the 4th Vedanta Youth Cup 2025-26 after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over AIFF FIFA Talent Academy, in a thrilling final played at Duler Stadium, on Wednesday.
Played under rainy conditions, both sides matched each other in an evenly contested encounter. With the scoreline locked goalless and the game seemingly heading towards a tie-breaker, Bengaluru struck the decisive blow in the 90th minute. A well-executed corner was met with a half-volley by Hrishikesh Charan Nanarathi, whose powerful strike bulged the net, sparking jubilant celebrations among the Bengaluru players and supporters.
Bengaluru FC lifted the winner’s trophy and a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh, presented by Dronacharya Awardee Armando Colaco. The runners-up, AIFF FIFA Talent Academy, received their trophy and a cash prize of Rs 70,000 from Laxman Hadfadkar, executive committee member of the Goa Football Association.
Individual honours: Player of the Final and Tournament – Hri shikesh Charan Nanarathi (Bengaluru FC); Best Goalkeeper – Dhannya Desai (Bengaluru FC); Best Defender – Jinesh Thoudam (AIFF FIFA); Most Promising Player of the Tournament – Leiron Kom (Muthoot FA).
