The Santosh Trophy 2025-26 group stage action continued on Monday, December 22, with Odisha, Telangana, and Services all securing vital victories. These results have kept the competition fierce as teams battle for a spot in the Final Round, which will be hosted in Assam. Odisha’s commanding 4-0 win over Madhya Pradesh, Telangana’s narrow 2-1 victory against Chhattisgarh, and Services’ hard-fought 2-1 triumph over Karnataka were among the standout performances.

Odisha Dominates Madhya Pradesh with a 4-0 Victory

In the standout performance of the day, Odisha showcased their attacking strength by comfortably defeating Madhya Pradesh 4-0. This dominant win was a clear message that Odisha is ready to make a strong push for the Santosh Trophy 2025-26 Final Round. The victory demonstrated their clinical finishing and solid team play, positioning them as one of the favorites for the title.

The 4-0 scoreline was significant, given Odisha’s focus on building momentum in the group stage. With more points in hand, Odisha remains a serious contender to qualify for the knockout stages.

Telangana Triumphs 2-1 Over Chhattisgarh

Telangana secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Chhattisgarh in a closely contested match. The win was crucial as Telangana looks to solidify their place in the Santosh Trophy knockout stages. Despite Chhattisgarh’s strong resistance, Telangana’s resilience allowed them to secure all three points, which keeps their hopes alive in the competitive group stage.

Services Edge Karnataka 2-1 in a Tight Encounter

In another close match, Services defeated Karnataka 2-1, clinching a vital victory in their quest for a Santosh Trophy Final Round spot. Services showed tactical discipline and determination, and their narrow win keeps them in the hunt for a place in the knockout rounds. With this victory, Services are poised to fight for a top spot in their group as the group stage nears its end.

Lakshadweep and Goa Draw 1-1

In another exciting match, Lakshadweep and Goa played out a 1-1 draw. While a draw isn’t ideal for either team, both sides remain in contention for the knockout stages. This result keeps the competition in their group wide open as teams fight to progress.

Santosh Trophy 2025 Group Stage Format

A total of 35 teams are competing in the Santosh Trophy 2025-26 group stage, which runs from December 15 to 26. The teams are divided into nine groups, with eight groups consisting of four teams and one group featuring three teams. The top team from each group will progress to the Final Round, along with the host state Assam, defending champions West Bengal, and runners-up Kerala.

Countdown to the Final Round in Assam

The Final Round of the Santosh Trophy will be held in Assam, and the competition is intensifying as teams make their final push for a place in the knockout stages. Odisha, Telangana, and Services are all looking strong, but with several days still remaining in the group stage, every match is crucial.

As the group stage draws to a close, teams that are still in contention must secure all three points in their remaining matches. The Santosh Trophy is one of India’s premier football tournaments, and the stakes are high as teams battle for the coveted title.

What’s Next for Santosh Trophy 2025-26 Teams?

With just days left in the group stage, every match counts. The teams will need to bring their best performances in the final group games to secure qualification for the Final Round. Odisha, Telangana, and Services will be looking to maintain their form, while other teams like Lakshadweep and Goa are fighting for a chance to make it to the knockout rounds.

The Final Round in Assam will see the best teams in the country competing for the prestigious Santosh Trophy title. With so many teams vying for a spot, the competition is bound to heat up in the coming days.

Conclusion: The Road to the Santosh Trophy Final Round

The Santosh Trophy 2025-26 continues to deliver thrilling football action. As Odisha, Telangana, and Services emerge victorious, they remain strong contenders for the Final Round. The group stage is nearing its end, and every match is crucial for teams looking to qualify for the knockout stages.

With Assam set to host the final stages of the tournament, the competition promises to get even more intense. Stay tuned for more updates as teams battle it out for a spot in the coveted Santosh Trophy Final Round and a chance to lift the prestigious title.

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