Srinagar, October 9, 2025 – In a resounding display of home advantage and youthful prowess, the host team from Jammu & Kashmir has stormed into the semifinals of the boys’ under-19 football event at the ongoing 69th National School Games, electrifying crowds across Srinagar’s iconic venues. The dramatic victory, secured through a nail-biting penalty shootout against a formidable opponent from Maharashtra, underscores J&K’s rising stature in school-level sports and sets the stage for an exhilarating knockout phase.The J&K host team, comprising talented young footballers from local schools, clinched a thrilling 4-3 win on penalties following a goalless draw in regulation time during their quarterfinal clash at the Polo Ground here on Wednesday. Led by captain Aarif Khan, the squad showcased impeccable defense and clinical finishing in the shootout, with goalkeeper Zain Mir’s two crucial saves proving decisive. This triumph propels them into the next stage of the tournament, where they will face the winners of the Delhi vs. Karnataka quarterfinal, promising a high-stakes semifinal showdown by the weekend.Organized under the aegis of the School Games Federation of India (SGFI) and supported by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, the 69th National School Games kicked off on October 6 with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah ceremonially inaugurating the event by kicking a football at TRC Srinagar. Over 4,000 young athletes from 30 states and Union Territories are competing in football, wushu, taekwondo, and table tennis across six venues in Srinagar and Jammu, marking J&K’s proud hosting of India’s premier inter-school multi-sport extravaganza.
Path to Glory: Key Highlights from J&K’s Campaign
- Group Stage Dominance: The host team topped their group with convincing wins, including a 2-0 shutout against Uttarakhand and a 3-1 victory over Himachal Pradesh, amassing seven points from three matches.
- Quarterfinal Drama: Facing Maharashtra’s high-scoring attack, J&K’s midfield maestros – siblings Rishi and Rohan Bhat – orchestrated a resilient performance, forcing extra time and ultimately prevailing in the shootout.
- Star Performers: Forward Sahil Dar netted the decisive penalty, while defender Imran Lone was named Player of the Match for his commanding presence. Coach Farooq Ahmed praised the team’s “unbreakable spirit and home crowd energy.”
Director General of Youth Services & Sports (YSS), Anuradha Gupta, commended the host team’s performance, stating, “This victory is a testament to our focused coaching camps and the talent nurtured in J&K’s school sports ecosystem. As hosts, we’re not just participating – we’re inspiring a generation.” The event, which runs through November 25 with table tennis concluding at Jammu University, emphasizes fair play, with all participants taking an oath of sportsmanship at the opening ceremony.
Broader Impact and Beyond Football
J&K’s strong showing extends beyond football, with the host contingent eyeing medals in wushu (October 28–November 1 at Indoor Sports Complex, Srinagar) and taekwondo events. The games serve as a vital feeder for national and international competitions, fostering unity and discipline among India’s youth. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who highlighted sports’ role in “building bridges of unity,” assured comprehensive support, including warm clothing amid chilly October weather, to ensure a seamless experience for all.As the host team J&K prepares for the semifinals, anticipation builds for more glory on home turf. Official updates and live scores are available via the SGFI portal and YSS J&K channels, with the football finals slated for October 10.This breakthrough not only boosts J&K’s medal prospects but also spotlights the region’s evolving sports infrastructure, drawing cheers from spectators and setting a benchmark for future editions.
