It’s time to make it count…

Our Zinc Football Academy return to action today in their second Group C fixture, taking on Reliance Foundation Young Champs in Mahilpur, Punjab.

After a goalless draw against giants East Bengal FC in the opener, Group C is finely poised. With just one matchday to follow, the equation is simple… nothing less than a win will significantly strengthen ZFA’s chances of progressing to the quarter-finals.

These are the moments that define a team’s character… and our young boys are ready for the challenge. Truly!

Zinc Football Academy’s defensive unit continues to be a major positive. Carrying their form from the zonal round where they boasted one of the best defensive records in the league, the backline looked composed in the opening game as well. Goalkeeper Smarnik Thapa set the tone early with a brilliant penalty save, ensuring the team walked away with a clean sheet.

However, there is a concern in midfield. Bryant Dihingia remains sidelined with an ankle injury and will miss out once again. In his absence, Yungam Neri stepped up admirably in the first match and will be keen to build on that performance.

The focus now shifts to the attacking third. Despite creating multiple chances against East Bengal FC, our Rajasthan-based Academy couldn’t find the finishing touch. That’s an area the team will be eager to improve today. Striker Ashish Chetry, alongside the able deputy of wingers Himanshu and Shivam, and creative midfielder Nikhil, will look to convert early and give the team the momentum it needs.

High stakes, rising intensity, and everything to play for! This is exactly the kind of contest that fuels ambition.️

All eyes on Mahilpur once again.

A big performance awaits.

Kick-off: 20 April 2026, 4:30 PM.