Kolkata, January 26: Defending champions West Bengal continued their perfect start to the Santosh Trophy 2026 with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Rajasthan in their third group-stage clash at the Dhakuakhana Football Stadium, sealing their third consecutive win of the campaign.
From the opening whistle, West Bengal displayed control with sustained attacking intent, pushing Rajasthan deep into their own half. However, Rajasthan’s defence remained alert and organised, absorbing pressure and denying Bengal any early breakthrough.
Bengal came closest in the first half in the 35th minute when Rabi found space inside the box, but failed to make a clean connection with the ball, probably the best chance of the half as the teams went into the break goalless.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with West Bengal probing patiently while Rajasthan looked to capitalise on limited counter-attacking opportunities. Forward Ishan Rozario tested the Bengal defence with a few goalbound attempts whenever space opened up, but the defending champions held their shape well and dealt with the threat effectively.
Late drama unfolded in the final minutes. In the 83rd minute, substitute Narohari nearly turned provider once again, controlling a chest ball inside the box before attempting a grounded shot that drifted just wide. Two minutes later, West Bengal created another golden chance as they won possession from a Rajasthan goal kick and sent a long ball into the box. Aqib found himself one-on-one with the goalkeeper, but the Rajasthan keeper reacted swiftly to keep the net untouched.
The decisive moment arrived in the 89th minute. Bickey Thapa delivered a high, long ball into the box which was initially attempted first-time. The rebound fell for Sayan, who launched himself into a flying header to finally break the deadlock.
West Bengal managed the closing moments with composure, seeing out the match to secure all three points and maintain their flawless run in the title-defending campaign. Robi Hansda and Sayan Banerjee, Karan Rai attempted several goalbound moves, creating multiple opportunities as Bengal dominated the attacking phases, though a lack of clinical finishing kept the margin narrow.
Despite creating plenty of chances as a unit, Sanjoy Sen’s Bengal once again finished their third clash with a narrow lead and clean sheet, underlining both their attacking intent and defensive discipline.
Bengal will next face Tamil Nadu on 28 January, aiming to extend their winning streak.
Santosh Trophy 2025-26: Rajasthan vs West Bengal highlights
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