Kailashahar: Amid a packed gallery and electrifying atmosphere at Ramakrishna Mahavidyalaya Stadium, Rengdai FC edged past TRAU FC 5–3 in a penalty shootout to lift the General Padmajung Shield Football Tournament title after a goalless draw in regulation time.
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| Rengdai FC players celebrate with the General Padmajung Memorial Shield and ₹5 lakh cheque after defeating TRAU FC in a dramatic tie-breaker final at Kailashahar. (Image: x.com/DrManikSaha2) |
The summit clash featured two strong teams from Manipur - Rengdai FC and TRAU FC. Rengdai, in yellow and white, began aggressively, dominating midfield and attacking through the flanks. However, TRAU’s disciplined defense kept them at bay.
TRAU nearly broke the deadlock midway through the first half when a powerful strike from the right flank hit the post. Despite several swift moves and a corner opportunity, the first half ended scoreless, with multiple offside calls by referee Shibjyoti Chakraborty halting promising attacks.
The second half saw intensified action, with both sides creating chances through free kicks and long-range efforts. Rengdai earned a direct free kick outside the box but failed to capitalize. Two Rengdai players were booked for consecutive fouls as tension mounted in the closing stages.
With fading light preventing extra time after 70 minutes, the match went straight to penalties. Rengdai converted all five spot kicks, while TRAU missed one, sealing a 5–3 victory. A crucial save by Rengdai’s goalkeeper proved decisive.
Jersey number 24, Bikram of Rengdai, was named Man of the Match for his standout performance.
Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha, who attended the final along with state ministers and football officials, handed over the trophy and a cheque of ₹5 lakh to the champions. Runners-up TRAU received ₹3 lakh and the runners-up trophy.
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Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister expressed delight at the revival of the prestigious tournament after a decade, calling the enthusiastic turnout a positive sign for football’s growth in the region.
The return of the Padmajung Shield after ten years has reignited sporting excitement in the Northeast, with this dramatic finale leaving a lasting impression on football fans.
