THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

ANUGOLA, AUGUST 18, 2026

It was a finale befitting a tournament built on the spirit of football. BFC Kuchinda held its nerve in a pulsating contest against Bargarh United to emerge champions of the O.P. Jindal Memorial Football Tournament 2026, prevailing 7-6 in a gripping final at Kadam Padia here on Tuesday.

With the two sides refusing to give an inch, the title clash kept the sizeable crowd on tenterhooks until the final whistle. Bargarh United mounted a spirited challenge, but BFC Kuchinda’s determination, discipline and composure eventually saw them through in a contest that showcased the competitive spirit and emerging football talent of Odisha.

Organised by Jindal Foundation in loving memory of its founder Chairman, O.P. Jindal, the tournament sought to promote teamwork, unity and excellence while providing a platform for young footballers to display their talent.

The final was attended by Dhenkanal MP Rudra Narayan Pani as the chief guest. Among those present were Anugola MLA Pratap Pradhan, Municipality Chairman Akshaya Kumar Samant, DSO Anugola Akshaya Setha, Senior Superintendent of Anugola Jail Pradipta Behera, Jindal Steel Executive Director (Special Projects) Hridayeswar Jha and Jindal Foundation CSR Head Rishi Pathania, besides other dignitaries.

The dignitaries congratulated both teams for their spirited performance and lauded the Jindal Foundation for its efforts to promote sports and nurture footballing talent at the grassroots level.

For BFC Kuchinda, the triumph was further sweetened by individual honours. Samir Pradhan was named Man of the Finals, while teammate Chinni Kissan was adjudged Player of the Tournament. Bargarh United goalkeeper Alok Ekka was named Best Goalkeeper for his impressive performances during the competition.

Adding to the tournament’s legacy was the inauguration of a dedicated players’ pavilion constructed by the Jindal Foundation at Kadam Padia. The district sports authorities also collaborated with the Foundation in ensuring the successful conduct of the tournament.

The O.P. Jindal Memorial Football Tournament continues to reflect the Jindal Foundation’s commitment to promoting sports, nurturing emerging talent and creating opportunities for young people. In doing so, the tournament carries forward O.P. Jindal’s enduring vision of community development, empowerment and inclusive growth.