With Assam hosting the business end of the tournament, the 79th Santosh Trophy has reached its final act as Kerala and Services booked their places in the summit clash following convincing semi-final victories on Thursday, February 5, at venues across the state.
The two matches, played in Silapathar and Dhakuakhana, underlined the contrasting strengths of the finalists, Services’ clinical efficiency and Kerala’s attacking dominance, setting the stage for a high-stakes final on February 8.
Services Outclass Railways In Silapathar
In the first semi-final at Silapathar, Services defeated Railways 2–0 with a controlled and disciplined performance.
Abhishek Power opened the scoring in the 33rd minute, unleashing a powerful strike from outside the box that left the Railways goalkeeper with no chance. Services maintained their composure after taking the lead and doubled the advantage in the 72nd minute.
The second goal came from the penalty spot after Railways defender fouled Jahir Khan inside the area. Power stepped up once again and calmly converted, completing a brace and effectively sealing the contest. From there on, Services dictated the tempo and comfortably saw out the match.
Kerala Run Riot Against Punjab In Dhakuakhana
The second semi-final at the Bisturam Doley ground, Dhakuakhana, turned into a one-sided affair as Kerala crushed Punjab 4–0.
Kerala stamped their authority early, with Mohammed Azchal finding the net in the 16th minute. Mohammed Riyaz added a second in the 34th minute, before Vignesh struck just before halftime to make it 3–0, virtually ending the contest by the break.
Punjab attempted a response in the second half but struggled to break through Kerala’s well-organised midfield and defence. Kerala remained on the offensive, and Riyaz scored his second goal of the match in the 83rd minute, completing a dominant display.
Assam Hosts The Grand Finale
With both semi-finals now concluded, Kerala and Services will face off in the Santosh Trophy final on February 8, with Assam once again playing host to Indian football’s oldest domestic tournament at its decisive stage.
Although the host state exited earlier, football fans across Assam have continued to turn up in large numbers, lending strong support and atmosphere to matches held in Silapathar, Dhakuakhana, and Chilapathar during the main round.
The final promises a clash of styles, Kerala’s fluid attacking game against Services’ structured and efficient approach, bringing the 79th Santosh Trophy to a fitting conclusion on Assamese soil.
