Zinc Football Academy Continues Unbeaten Streak in AIFF U-18 Elite League
Hindustan Zinc's flagship social impact initiative, the Zinc Football Academy (ZFA), is making waves in the AIFF Under-18 Elite League 2025-26. After ten matches in the Zonal Round, the academy remains undefeated, firmly positioned at the top of Group B with only four matches left to play.
Dominant Performance in Group B
The Zonal Round of the AIFF U-18 Elite League commenced in November 2025 and will continue until March 2026. Each team competes in 14 matches under a home-and-away format across various zonal venues. ZFA hosts its home fixtures at two premier locations: the Hindustan Zinc Stadium in Debari and the MKM Stadium in Zawar, while traveling extensively for away games.
ZFA's commanding lead in Group B is a result of remarkable consistency in both home and away matches. The academy has secured eight victories and two draws, amassing 26 points from ten matches. Their closest competitor, Sudeva Delhi FC, trails with 22 points from nine matches.
Impressive Match Results and Statistics
The academy's journey so far includes decisive wins such as a 7-0 and 2-0 triumph over Rajasthan United, an 11-0 and 5-1 victory against Delhi FC, and commanding performances against Sudeva Delhi FC (5-0), Juba Sangha FC (3-0), Lake City FC (3-0), and Lucknow Falcons FC (5-0). ZFA also played to hard-fought draws against Techtro Lucknow FC (0-0) and Juba Sangha FC (2-2).
ZFA's offensive prowess is undeniable, having netted an impressive 43 goals in ten matches. Striker Ashish Chetry has been instrumental, leading the charge with 19 goals, including three hat-tricks, placing him third in the overall top scorers' chart. Local talents Himesh Meena, described by his coach as the team's pillar, and Ritik Meena, known for delivering in crucial moments, have also contributed consistently to the scoreboard.
Defensively, ZFA has been equally formidable, conceding a mere three goals across ten matches and maintaining eight clean sheets. This balanced performance underscores the academy's comprehensive strength on the field.
Upcoming Fixtures and Future Prospects
With only four matches remaining in the zonal round—three at home and one away—ZFA aims to sustain its momentum to qualify for the Final Round of the AIFF Under-18 Elite League 2025–26. The upcoming schedule includes home games against Techtro Lucknow FC on February 9, Lucknow Falcons FC on February 25, and Lake City FC on March 4, along with a crucial away match against Sudeva Delhi FC in Delhi on February 16.
ZFA's Legacy and Contribution to Indian Football
Established in 2018 as an AIFF 3-star rated academy, Zinc Football Academy has consistently nurtured talent for India's age-group teams, enriching the nation's football talent pool. Notable alumni like Sahil Poonia, Mohammed Kaif, and Prem Hansdak have already represented the national team, and the recent selection of six ZFA players for the prestigious Santosh Trophy marks another significant achievement.
In a groundbreaking move, Hindustan Zinc recently launched India's first residential football academy for girls, welcoming an inaugural batch of 20 girls from rural backgrounds, further expanding its commitment to sports development.
Hindustan Zinc's Broader Sports Initiatives
Hindustan Zinc has been a stalwart supporter of sports for nearly four decades, beginning with its football stadium in Zawar in 1976, which continues to host annual National Football tournaments. The company's sports initiatives extend beyond football to include athletics, kabaddi, and volleyball, fostering grassroots talent across disciplines.
The Vedanta Zinc City Half Marathon has elevated Udaipur's status on the global running map, with these comprehensive sports programs positively impacting nearly 30,000 lives. Through initiatives like ZFA, Hindustan Zinc continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Indian sports.
