Rising Star Rajrup Sarkar Leads India U-17 to AFC Asian Cup Qualification
Rajrup Sarkar's Key Role in India's Victory
At just 16 years old, Rajrup Sarkar, the goalkeeper from Zinc Football Academy, played a crucial role in the India U-17 National Team's qualification for the AFC U-17 Asian Cup 2026. The team clinched their place in the prestigious tournament with an impressive 2-1 win against the formidable IR Iran in Ahmedabad, highlighting the emergence of young talent in Indian football.
A Standout Performance in the Qualifiers
Rajrup was a key player in all of India's vital group matches, showcasing his calm demeanor, quick reflexes, and outstanding shot-stopping skills. His contributions during tense moments against teams like IR Iran, Lebanon, Palestine, and Chinese Taipei were essential for India’s successful qualification campaign, as noted in a statement from the All India Football Federation (AIFF).
From Academy to National Team
Rajrup's journey began at Zinc Football Academy, where he joined the Zawar-based residential program as a teenager. With the Academy's top-notch coaching, educational support, and technology-driven training, he quickly emerged as one of India's most promising young goalkeepers. His impressive performances in the 2024-25 AIFF Under-17 Youth League led to his selection for the national team camp, fulfilling his aspiration to represent India.
Zinc Football Academy's Commitment to Talent Development
The AFC U-17 Asian Cup, one of the premier youth tournaments in Asia, will provide Rajrup and the Indian squad with a vital international stage in 2026. His success reflects Zinc Football Academy's mission to empower communities and cultivate future national team players through a comprehensive grassroots system. Since its establishment in 2018, the Academy has consistently produced players for India's youth teams, enhancing the country's talent pool. Following the achievements of players like Sahil Poonia, Mohammed Kaif, and Prem Hansdak, Rajrup's accomplishment signifies another significant milestone in the Academy's ongoing contribution to the growth of Indian football.
Hindustan Zinc's Enduring Support for Sports
Hindustan Zinc, part of the Vedanta Group, has a long history of supporting sports, having promoted athletes for nearly 40 years since the construction of its football stadium in Zawar, Rajasthan, in 1976. The company has hosted National Football Tournaments annually at Zawar Stadium for the past four decades and has backed numerous athletes who have achieved success on international platforms.
Community Empowerment Beyond Football
In addition to football, Hindustan Zinc fosters talent in athletics, kabaddi, and volleyball, establishing structured growth pathways at the grassroots level. Its flagship event, the Vedanta Zinc City Half Marathon, known as India's Most Beautiful Marathon, has elevated Udaipur's status in the global running community while promoting tourism and fitness culture. Through these initiatives, Hindustan Zinc has positively impacted nearly 30,000 lives, demonstrating its commitment to empowerment and social change.