Zinc Football Academy Triumphs in Rajasthan League, Secures IWL-2 Promotion
Zinc Football Academy Makes History
Zinc Football Academy (ZFA) has made a remarkable achievement by winning the Rajasthan League Senior Women's A Division for the 2025-26 season. In a stunning finale, the Zawar-based academy defeated Real Jaipur FC with an impressive score of 8-0, marking their first state title and earning a promotion to the Indian Women's League 2 (IWL-2).
A Historic Double for the Youngest Squad
This victory is particularly significant as it is the inaugural year for the girls' academy at Zinc Football. This triumph not only highlights their success but also completes a historic double for ZFA, following the men's team's championship in the Rajasthan League Senior Men's A-division. Notably, the girls achieved this milestone with the youngest squad in the tournament, boasting an average age of just 15 years and 8 months.
Dominant League Performance
The Rajasthan Football Association organized a competitive two-legged tournament featuring five of the state's leading teams: Real Jaipur FC, Magan Singh Rajvi FA, Jaipur City FC, Royal FC Jaipur, and Zinc Football Academy. Throughout the league, the Zinc Football girls demonstrated their skill, amassing 21 points from 8 matches, with 7 victories and only one defeat. They scored 24 goals while conceding just 5.
Final Match Highlights
In a crucial final match against Real Jaipur FC, ZFA showcased their determination and skill. Midfielder Antra Dolui led the charge with a stunning hat-trick (3', 20', 35'), while winger Dangi Mardi contributed with two goals (15', 36'). Additional goals from Priyanka (27'), Joha (46'), and Bindiya Kumari Meena (57') completed the overwhelming 8-0 victory.
Spotlight on Home-Grown Talent
A key aspect of this championship run was the outstanding performance of local talents from Zawar. Players such as Geet Meena, Bindiya Kumari Meena, Manisha Patel, and Savita Kalbeliya were instrumental throughout the season, showcasing the immense sporting potential of rural India when provided with the right opportunities.
A Trophy-Laden Debut Year
Since its launch in 2025, the Zinc Football Girls Academy has experienced a remarkable debut year filled with accolades. Prior to this state title, the girls had already secured victories in the Doon Cup, Asmita League Cup, and DAV U-19 Nationals, making this their fourth major trophy within a year.
Praise for a 'Bright Future'
"I extend my congratulations to Zinc Football Girls Academy for their impressive title win. It is heartening to see the youngest squad in the league from the state-of-the-art Academy in Udaipur competing fiercely against top teams in Rajasthan and emerging victorious in the senior women's league. These talented youngsters undoubtedly represent the bright future of football in Rajasthan and India," remarked Dilip Singh Shekhawat, Secretary of the Rajasthan Football Association and Joint Secretary of the Rajasthan Olympics Association.
About Zinc Football Academy
Founded in 2017, Zinc Football Academy is part of the Vedanta Zinc Football and Sports Foundation, a social initiative by Hindustan Zinc Limited (HZL). The academy has been pivotal in nurturing grassroots football talent from rural India. Located in Zawar, this AIFF-accredited 3-star academy has trained over 5,000 young footballers since its establishment.
The academy is also home to India's largest residential football academy for girls, providing a premier training environment focused on excellence. In addition to athletic training, the academy emphasizes a holistic approach, integrating elite coaching with academic support and personality development programs.
With a commitment to excellence and comprehensive development, the academy has consistently produced promising players for the national stage. Notable alumni include Mohammed Kaif, Prem Hansdak, Sahil Poonia, and Rajrup Sarkar, who have represented India in international football.