Kolkata, January 30: Defending champions West Bengal played out a 1-1 draw against Assam in their final Group A clash of the Santosh Trophy 2026 at the Dhakuakhana Football Stadium, Assam, sealing their place in the quarter-finals as group toppers.
Coming into the contest on the back of three consecutive victories, Bengal added another point to finish the group stage unbeaten, registering three clean sheets and conceding just two goals in five matches. With 11 points from five outings, Sanjoy Sen’s side underlined their defensive strength and tournament maturity.
West Bengal took the lead in the 32nd minute through Akash Hemram following a well-worked attacking move. Sumoy Shome combined neatly with Marshal Kisku on the left flank, with Kisku delivering a sharp ball into the box. Shome’s initial attempt failed to trouble the Assam defence, but Akash Hemram reacted quickest to the rebound, giving West Bengal a deserved 1-0 advantage.
Assam pushed for an equaliser in the latter stages and were rewarded late in the game. In the 83rd minute, Marshal Kisku brought down Sudeepta Konwar from behind just inside the penalty area as Assam moved forward. The referee immediately pointed to the spot, and Rituraj made no mistake from the penalty, converting to restore the score 1-1.
Despite the defensive strength that defined their group-stage campaign, Bengal’s attacking output remained measured. They finished the group with seven goals in five matches, with four of those coming in the opening fixture. In the other games, West Bengal found the net just once per match, reflecting a more controlled approach rather than an expansive attacking display.
While the chances were created through patient build-up and wide combinations, the final execution often lacked sharpness, forcing the side to rely on their disciplined structure and game management. Sanjoy Sen’s setup prioritised balance and risk control, ensuring West Bengal remained compact even when pushing forward. As the tournament progresses into the knockout stages, greater attacking efficiency and sharper finishing in the final third could be the key to complement.
Santosh Trophy 2025-26: West Bengal vs Assam highlights
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