On January 31, the fourth day of the Udaan Under-20 Border Football Championship featured competitive matches across multiple grounds in the Udalguri district of Assam.
Participating teams delivered impressive performances characterised by effective gameplay, discipline, and sportsmanship.
This championship serves as an important platform to develop young players from border and tea garden areas, while also fostering the growth of women’s football.
The first game took place at the Orangajuli Tea Garden football ground, supported by the Indian Army’s 313 Field Regiment (part of the 21 Mountain Brigade’s Red Horn Gunners). Harchura Tea Garden secured a semi-final place after a dominant 10-0 victory over Bamunjuli Tea Garden, displaying outstanding offensive coordination and finishing throughout the match.
At the Paneri Tea Estate football ground, with backing from the Indian Army’s 629 Satta Battery, Orangajuli Tea Garden edged past Badlapara Farm 1-0. The Orangajuli team controlled the game steadily, showcasing disciplined play and fast-paced football.
The third match, described as the most thrilling of the day, was held at the Bhutiachang Tea Estate ground, supported by the Indian Army’s 81 Field Regiment. Paneri Football Club defeated Bhutiachang Tea Garden 1-0 in a closely contested match marked by strong defence and commendable sportsmanship from both teams, thus advancing to the semi-finals.
The championship has generated significant enthusiasm among local residents, football fans, and youth, with large crowds attending to support the competitors. It offers young female players from the border and tea garden regions an important opportunity to demonstrate their skills and develop their sporting careers.
Matches on the following day will take place at the Orangajuli Tea Garden and Paneri grounds.