Arunachal’s Govt Higher Secondary School, Nari, Stuns Sainik School in Subroto Cup Opener

EduNe Bureau

New Delhi:  Govt Higher Secondary School, Nari, Arunachal Pradesh, scripted a dream start to their Subroto Cup campaign, edging past Sainik School, Sambhalpur, Odisha, with a hard-fought 1-0 victory in the Junior Girls (U-17) category at the historic Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Stadium on Tuesday.

The lone goal of the match came in the 9th minute, when jersey No. 9, Luky Liam Tamin, found the back of the net, giving the Arunachal side a slender but decisive lead that they defended with grit and determination till the final whistle.

The win not only gave the team from Nari a perfect start in Group A but also sent out a strong message to the other 30 participating teams in the prestigious 64th Subroto Cup International Football Tournament, which kicked off with much fanfare in the Capital.

The opening ceremony added grandeur to the occasion, with Air Marshal S. Sivakumar VSM, Air Officer-in-Charge Administration & Vice Chairman of the Subroto Mukherjee Sports Education Society, declaring the tournament open. Arjuna awardee and Indian shooting star Anjum Moudgil graced the event as Guest of Honour.

Spectators were treated to a colourful cultural showcase, including a precision drill display by the Air Warriors Drill Team and performances by students of Air Force Bal Bharti School.

Addressing the gathering, Air Marshal Sivakumar hailed the tournament’s legacy, saying:

“The 64th Subroto Cup is a testament to the enduring spirit of football in India. I am confident this tournament will not only showcase the skills of these young athletes but also inspire many more to take up the sport. May they play the game in the true spirit of sportsmanship.”

This year’s edition of the tournament features 31 teams divided into eight groups, including participants from Sri Lanka. Only the group winners will progress to the knockout stages, with the grand finale slated for August 28, 2025, at Ambedkar Stadium.

Alongside Ambedkar Stadium, matches in the Junior Girls category will also be hosted at the Tejas Football Ground, Subroto Park Football Ground, and Pinto Park Football Ground.

For the spirited girls from Nari, Arunachal Pradesh, the opening-day triumph was more than just a victory—it was a statement of intent. As they chase glory in one of the most prestigious school-level football tournaments in the world, they have already made their state proud with a winning start on the national stage.