By For the first time in history, the National Football Championship for Santosh Trophy, commonly known as Santosh Trophy, will be streamed live globally for free on FIFA. All 37 matches in the final round, including group stage, quarter-finals, semi-finals and final will be streamed live on FIFA for free.
FIFA is FIFA’s direct-to-consumer video platform that’s available across the web, mobile web, mobile app, connected TV applications and FAST channels. FIFA will also have full match replays available on demand.
The prestigious competition, which started in 1941, was organized as an individual competition till 2018. However, since 2021, the AIFF has rebranded it as the men’s senior tier of National Football Championship for the regional teams of various age groups. In September 2022, it was announced that the tournament will be organized on zonal basis.
After organizing the final four-stage in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in 2023 where Karnataka were crowned champions, the Santosh Trophy is set to be held in Arunachal Pradesh for the first time. The 77th National Football Championship for Santosh Trophy was inaugurated by Arunachal Chief Minister, Pema Khandu, at the Golden Jubilee Outdoor Stadium in Yupia, Papum Pare district. Arunachal Sports Minister Mama Natung expressed pride at hosting the Santosh Trophy and assured that all arrangements including lodging, food, and other facilities will be at par with FIFA standards.
Group A includes Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Meghalaya, Services, Kerala, and Assam. On the other hand, Group B comprises Karnataka, Maharashtra, Delhi, Manipur, Mizoram, and Railways. In a significant departure from previous editions, the 77th Santosh Trophy introduces an expanded knockout stage, with the top four teams from each group advancing to the quarterfinals.
The 77th Santosh Trophy promises to provide a thrilling and high-quality experience for players and fans alike, showing the capability of AIFF to be as good as the best.
