By Our Reporter
Shillong, Dec 24: Meghalaya ended their Group B campaign in the Senior Men’s National Football Championship for the Santosh Trophy 2024-25 with a 0-0 draw against Odisha in Hyderabad on Tuesday morning.
Having already qualified for the quarterfinal round after their win against Goa two days ago, Meghalaya coach Hering Shangpliang chose to give match exposure to some of the less utilised players in the squad.
Odisha, though, still wanted a win to improve their chances of making it to the knockout round but were frustrated by a resolute Meghalaya.
As such, second-placed Meghalaya now have 8 points and fourth-placed Odisha 5 but they could both see their positions change depending on the Delhi (6 points) versus Goa (3) match later on Tuesday.
In other game will be between leaders Kerala (12) and bottom side Tamil Nadu (2).Only the Top 4 from each group will progress to the last-eight, which will take place after Christmas.
Group A’s quarterfinalists have already been decided, with West Bengal, Manipur, defending champions Services and Jammu and Kashmir getting through.
Meghalaya’s goalless draw against Odisha marked a strategic conclusion to their Group B campaign in the Senior Men’s National Football Championship for the Santosh Trophy 2024-25. With their quarterfinal berth already secured, coach Hering Shangpliang wisely utilized the match to provide valuable exposure to the squad’s lesser-utilized players, a decision that reflects both depth and foresight in Meghalaya’s approach to the tournament. Despite Odisha’s efforts to secure a win and strengthen their chances of progressing, Meghalaya’s resolute defense stood firm, showcasing the team’s tactical discipline. As the group stage nears its conclusion, all eyes will turn to the outcomes of the remaining matches, which could reshuffle the standings and finalize the Top 4.
For Meghalaya, advancing to the knockout stage not only solidifies their status as strong contenders but also offers an opportunity to continue their impressive campaign in pursuit of Santosh Trophy glory.