National Inclusion Cup: Kerala, Chhattisgarh emerge champions

Mumbai [India], February 24 (ANI): The Kerala men's football team and the Chhattisgarh women's football team emerged champions of the 2018 National Inclusion Cup here in Mumbai on Saturday.

Kerala thrashed Vidarbha 8-3 to take the top honours, while Chhattisgarh defeated Uttarakhand 5-3 in the women's final encounter.

The women's final was a closely-fought contest, where Pranshu struck a hat-trick to help Chhattisgarh swept aside Uttarakhand and win the title.

"While there are winners emerging from every tournament, for us all participants coming from across the country, including from Nepal, were the real highlights of The National Inclusion Cup. This football tournament was played in the true spirit of participation and inclusiveness and that's what defines our success," said Vijay Barse, founder, Slum Soccer.

Since its inception in 2002, The National Inclusion Cup has taken place across various cities in India.

From 2010 onwards, the organisers added the women's category to the event. The first tournament was held in Nagpur with 16 states participating. (ANI)