HYDERABAD: Jammu and Kashmir achieved a historic milestone by sealing a quarter-final spot in the 78th Senior Men’s National Football Championship for the Santosh Trophy, defeating Rajasthan 1-0 at the Deccan Arena.
This notable accomplishment comes after a 16-year hiatus, underscoring the team’s perseverance and dedication. Adnan Ayub’s 74th-minute strike proved to be the decisive factor in the match.
J&K concluded the group stage with seven points from five matches, securing a top-four finish in Group A.
Minister for Youth Services and Sports, J&K, Satish Sharma, commended the team, stating, “This victory is a proud moment for Jammu and Kashmir. It demonstrates the dedication and skill of our athletes and reflects the potential of football in the region. The government is committed to nurturing young talent and providing opportunities for excellence on the national stage.”

Sarmad Hafeez, IAS, Secretary, Youth Services and Sports, J&K, also extended his congratulations, saying, “The J&K football team’s journey to the quarterfinals is truly inspiring. Their hard work, discipline, and teamwork set an example for aspiring athletes. We remain dedicated to supporting and promoting sports development across J&K.”
Nuzhat Gul, Secretary, J&K Sports Council, praised the team’s preparation and performance, remarking, “This victory is a testament to the immense talent of our players and the value of structured training programs. The J&K Sports Council is proud to have facilitated the team’s preparation and will continue to support their growth and success.”
The unwavering support of the J&K Sports Council, which organized and fully sponsored rigorous training camps in Srinagar and Jammu, has been instrumental. Players benefited from residential facilities, top-tier infrastructure, and essential resources.
Meanwhile, Manipur thrashed hosts Telangana 3-1, confirming their second-placed finish with 11 points from five games.
The victory marks a significant milestone for J&K football, and the team is eager to carry this momentum forward in the quarter-finals.