Agartala (Tripura), July 22: Forward Club ended a six-year title drought by emerging victorious in the prestigious Neeljyoti Rakhal Shield Knockout Football Tournament, defeating Blood Mouth Club 2–0 in a thrilling final under the floodlights at Umakanta Mini Stadium on today evening.
The grand finale drew thousands of passionate football fans, as both teams kicked off the match with high intensity and attacking flair.
Forward Club took an early lead in the 17th minute when Senthamils netted a spectacular goal, igniting celebrations among their supporters.
Despite their determined attempts to level the score, Blood Mouth Club found it difficult to break through Forward Club’s formidable defense. The first half ended with Forward holding onto a narrow 1–0 advantage.
After the break, Blood Mouth Club increased their offensive pressure, and the match evolved into a riveting exchange of counterattacks.
However, their inability to utilize the flanks effectively hindered their scoring chances.
In the 56th minute, Siyam Pui doubled Forward’s lead with a superb finish, effectively sealing the outcome.
Though Blood Mouth continued to push until the final whistle, their efforts were repeatedly thwarted by Forward’s organized backline.
With this victory, Forward Club lifted the Rakhal Shield for the first time since 2019, closing a chapter of near misses and reaffirming their dominance in Tripura’s football scene.
Referee Dhanesh Shah officiated the match, which concluded with a prize distribution ceremony. Forward Club received a cash reward of ₹60,000 as champions, while Blood Mouth Club were awarded ₹40,000 as runners-up.
State’s Sporting Landscape Improving Rapidly: CM Dr Manik Saha
Tripura Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha, while attending the closing ceremony of the Rakhal Shield Knockout Tournament, emphasized the state’s growing success in sports at the national level.
Speaking at Umakanta Mini Stadium, he reiterated the government’s commitment to expanding sports infrastructure and opportunities for youth.
“Our state’s identity is changing,” Dr. Saha stated. “We’ve already constructed nine synthetic turf football grounds, and three more are on the way. The government is relentlessly working to strengthen the foundation of sports in Tripura.”
Dr. Saha highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for youth involvement in sports and stressed that proper facilities are essential to nurture talent.
Youth Engagement in Sports Key to Drug-Free Tripura, Says CM
“Sports not only build physical and mental well-being but can also contribute to a Nesha Mukt Tripura (drug-free Tripura). Football has become a unifying force in our society. We see players as fierce competitors during matches but friends once the final whistle blows,” he added.
Praising both finalists for their spirited performance, the Chief Minister congratulated Forward Club for their victory and acknowledged the efforts of Blood Mouth Club.
“Children need a proper platform to shine. We are committed to developing that platform through better infrastructure and support systems,” Dr. Saha concluded.
About the Rakhal Shield Knockout Football Tournament
The Rakhal Shield Knockout Football Tournament is an annual flagship event organized by the Tripura Football Association (TFA), barring interruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Named in honour of the late Rakhal Deb—an ardent sports enthusiast and a lifelong patron of football—the tournament stands as one of the most prestigious competitions in Tripura’s sporting calendar.
This year’s edition features ten prominent clubs: Egiye Chalo Sangha, Forward Club, Lal Bahadur Byayamagar, Ramkrishna Club, Nine Bullets Club, Kalyan Samiti, Town Club, Blood Mouth Club, Jewels Association, and Birendra Club.
These teams played in knockout format for the coveted trophy and attractive cash prizes.
In the previous edition, Egiye Chalo Sangha lifted the trophy, while Ramkrishna Club secured the runners-up position.
