Jaipur: Rajasthan concluded their campaign in the Swami Vivekananda Under-20 Men’s National Football Championship 2026 in Narainpur, Chhattisgarh, with a defeat. The tournament, organized by the All India Football Federation (AIFF), saw Rajasthan finish their group stage with just four points after a 0-3 loss to Meghalaya in their final league match.
Match Performance and Results
Rajasthan began the tournament on a positive note by defeating Andhra Pradesh 2-0. However, they struggled to maintain momentum thereafter. In their second match, they suffered a narrow 1-2 defeat against Jharkhand. The third outing saw them held to a 1-1 draw by Bihar. The final match ended with a comprehensive 0-3 defeat against Meghalaya, ending their campaign.
With only one win, one draw, and two losses, Rajasthan failed to advance further in the competition. The team's inability to convert early success into consistent performances was a key factor in their early exit.
Grassroots Development Praised
Despite the disappointing results, Rajasthan Football Association president Manvendra Singh Jasol and secretary Dilip Singh Shekhawat expressed satisfaction with the team's overall performance. They highlighted the ongoing efforts at the grassroots level, which they believe will yield positive results in the coming years. According to them, the focus on developing young talent will help Rajasthan win medals in future tournaments.
The association remains committed to nurturing football talent from a young age, aiming to build a strong foundation for the sport in the state. The current campaign, despite its shortcomings, is seen as a learning experience for the young players.
Looking Ahead
Rajasthan's U-20 team will now look to regroup and focus on upcoming competitions. The experience gained from this national championship will be valuable for the players as they continue their development. The state association plans to intensify grassroots programs to ensure a steady pipeline of skilled footballers.
The Swami Vivekananda Under-20 Men’s National Football Championship provides a platform for young talents to showcase their skills and compete against the best in the country. Rajasthan's participation, though ending in disappointment, underscores the growing football culture in the state.
