Kerala won the men’s football gold medal at the National Games 2025, ending a 28-year wait.The team defeated the host Uttarakhand 1-0 in the final held in Deun on Friday. S. Gokul scored the decisive goal in the 52nd minute. However, Kerala had to play the final 20 minutes with 10 men after defender Safwan M was controversially sent off.
This victory marks Kerala’s first gold medal in football at the National Games as 1997. The team had previously won silver medals in 2008 and 2015, and a bronze medal in 2002. Kerala also won the gold medal in hockey at the ongoing National Games.
The team members include Ajay alex, Affnas TN, Sachin Sunil, Jacob C, Mahesh C, Mahesh K, Gokul S, Sanba, Bubble: Adil P, Beezesh Balan, Abhinav, Yashim Malik, Alkesh Raj TV, Sebastian S, mohammed Shadil PP, Muhammad Iqbal C, Sandeep, Shafiq Hassan (chief coach), Shashin Chandran K (goalkeeper coach), Rajiv BH (manager), and Mohammed Admy (physio).
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Kerala Wins men’s Football Gold Medal at National Games 2025, Ending 28-Year Wait
Table of Contents
- Kerala Wins men’s Football Gold Medal at National Games 2025, Ending 28-Year Wait
- Interview with Football Analyst Dr. Ravi Kumar on Kerala’s Historic Victory
- Senior Editor Priya Sharma (PS): dr. Kumar, can you share your initial thoughts on kerala’s gold medal win?
- PS: How significant is this achievement in the context of Indian football?
- PS: Can you discuss the impact of the red card on the team’s strategy?
- PS: How does this victory compare to Kerala’s previous performances at the National Games?
- PS: What role did the coaching staff play in this triumph?
- PS: Dr. Kumar, what message does this victory send to young footballers in Kerala and across India?
- Conclusion
- Interview with Football Analyst Dr. Ravi Kumar on Kerala’s Historic Victory
In a thrilling finale, Kerala’s men’s football team clinched the gold medal at the National Games 2025, marking a significant milestone after a 28-year drought. The team triumphed over the host Uttarakhand with a narrow 1-0 victory, courtesy of a decisive goal by S. Gokul in the 52nd minute. This victory underscores Kerala’s resilience and determination in the face of adversity,as they played the final 20 minutes with just 10 men following a controversial red card for defender Safwan M.
Interview with Football Analyst Dr. Ravi Kumar on Kerala’s Historic Victory
In this exclusive interview, Senior Editor of world-today-news.com, Priya Sharma, sits down with renowned football analyst and sports historian, Dr. Ravi Kumar,to delve into the intricacies of Kerala’s triumphant journey.
Dr. Ravi Kumar (RK): Priya, it’s a momentous occasion for Kerala football. This victory not only ends a 28-year wait but also symbolizes the state’s unwavering commitment to the sport. Kerala’s ability to overcome adversity, especially playing with a man down for the last 20 minutes, is a testament to their mental fortitude and tactical resilience.
PS: How significant is this achievement in the context of Indian football?
RK: This achievement is monumental. Kerala has a rich football history, and this gold medal win reinstates their prominence on the national stage.It also sets a precedent for other states to emulate, fostering a competitive spirit that can elevate the overall standard of football in the country.
PS: Can you discuss the impact of the red card on the team’s strategy?
RK: The red card was certainly a setback,but it’s a testament to the team’s character that they managed to hold their ground. Defending a one-goal lead with 10 men is never easy,but Kerala’s solid defensive structure and strategic substitutions likely played a crucial role in maintaining their composure.
PS: How does this victory compare to Kerala’s previous performances at the National Games?
RK: This gold medal is a significant upgrade from Kerala’s previous performances. They had won silver medals in 2008 and 2015 and a bronze in 2002. This victory not only brings them to the top but also marks a new era of success for Kerala football.
PS: What role did the coaching staff play in this triumph?
RK: The coaching staff, led by Shafiq Hassan, played an instrumental role. Their tactical acumen and ability to motivate the players, especially under pressure, were evident.The goalkeeper coach, Shashin Chandran K, and the manager, Rajiv BH, also contributed considerably to the team’s success.
PS: Dr. Kumar, what message does this victory send to young footballers in Kerala and across India?
RK: This victory sends a powerful message of perseverance and belief. Young footballers should take inspiration from Kerala’s journey. It shows that with hard work, dedication, and the right support, dreams can be achieved. This gold medal is not just for Kerala but for every aspiring footballer in India.
Conclusion
Kerala’s gold medal win at the National Games 2025 is a testament to their resilience, strategic prowess, and unwavering commitment to the sport. This victory not only ends a 28-year wait but also sets a new benchmark for football excellence in the country. With the guidance of a dedicated coaching staff and the spirit of a united team, Kerala has scripted a new chapter in Indian football history.
