Subroto Cup 2023: Bengaluru Joins Delhi and Gurugram as Host City

The Subroto Cup International Football Tournament, India’s oldest national inter-school football competition, is set to make history in its 62nd edition. Bengaluru, the Silicon Valley of India, has been added to the list of host cities for this prestigious event. Previously held in Delhi and Gurugram, the tournament is scheduled to take place from September 19 to October 23, 2023, across three venues.

Expanding Horizons: A New Chapter in Subroto Cup History

For many years, the Subroto Cup has been a showcase of young football talent in India. This year, the tournament’s organizers have taken a significant step towards expanding its reach by bringing Bengaluru into the fold. The decision to host matches in Bengaluru signifies the tournament’s commitment to reaching more corners of the country and giving aspiring footballers from diverse regions the opportunity to shine on a national stage.

A Multifaceted Tournament with Three Age Categories

The 62nd Subroto Cup will feature three distinct age categories, each with its own set of teams and venues:

Under-17 Junior Boys and Girls Tournaments (Delhi-NCR): Matches for the Under-17 category will take place in the Delhi-NCR region at renowned venues such as the Ambedkar Stadium, Tejas Football Ground (Delhi), Subroto Football Ground (Delhi), and the GD Goenka School (Gurugram). This category is expected to witness intense competition among some of the most promising young talents in Indian football.
Under-14 Sub-Junior Boys Competition (Bengaluru): Bengaluru will play host to the Sub-Junior Boys category, with matches scheduled at the ASC Centre, the Air Force School in Jalahalli, and the Air Force School in Yehalanka.

This move not only adds a new dimension to the tournament but also provides an exciting opportunity for the budding footballers in Bengaluru to showcase their skills.

A Diverse Lineup of Competitors

The 62nd Subroto Cup will see participation from 109 teams hailing from 27 states and Union Territories in India. Adding an international flavor to the event, teams from Bangladesh and Nepal will also take part. With over 180 matches scheduled to be played across the three categories, football enthusiasts can expect a thrilling and action-packed tournament.

Defending Champions and Aspiring Contenders

In the junior boys’ category, Pilgrim Higher Secondary School from Dimapur, Nagaland, holds the coveted title of defending champions. Meanwhile, St. Patrick’s School from Gumla, Jharkhand, will be aiming to maintain their reign in the junior girls’ category. In the sub-junior boys’ category, Heirok Higher Secondary School from Imphal, Manipur, is the reigning champion, hoping to secure another victory.