The inaugural Pyramid Sports Development League (PSDL) concluded spectacularly at the South United Football Club in Bangalore in May 2024, with Bengaluru FC, Bangalore Super Strikers FC, and The Football People Academy emerging as the standout teams. Each club lifted the League Shield in their respective categories, showcasing exceptional skills and determination through top-class football training.
Dominance in the Under-11 Category: Bengaluru FC’s Unbeaten Run
Bengaluru FC emerged as the Champions in the Under-11 category, completing a stellar season by securing both the League Shield and the PSDL Cup. The team remained unbeaten, winning all 14 of their matches, amassing 42 points with an impressive goal difference of 105. Their success was spearheaded by Anirudh Srikanth, who netted 23 goals to become the top scorer of the category, while South United Football Club’s Neerav M. Mandanna finished second, scoring 18 goals. Bangalore Super Strikers FC finished a close second with 36 points, edging out Bangalore City FC on goal difference.
Under-9 Category: Bangalore Super Strikers FC’s Triumphant Double
The Under-9 category witnessed a thrilling contest as Bangalore Super Strikers FC, Bengaluru FC, and Bangalore City FC all tied on 42 points. Ultimately, Bangalore Super Strikers FC clinched the League Shield on goal difference. The excitement continued in the PSDL Cup, where they secured a 2-1 victory over Bengaluru FC, avenging their senior team’s loss. T. Devarajan Chellaiah of A3 Soccers emerged as the top scorer, boasting 28 goals.
The Football People Academy: Under-7 League Shield Winners
In the Under-7 category, The Football People Academy showcased their prowess, securing the League Shield with 33 points and a goal difference of 45. Despite losing only one game, they were unable to complete the double, falling 4-1 to Bangalore City FC in the Cup Final. Bangalore City FC’s Ranish Sachin Hegde was the standout player, scoring a remarkable 37 goals to lead the top scorer charts.
PSDL Cup Finals: Highlights and Key Matches
The PSDL Cup Finals added a dramatic conclusion to the League:
- Under-11 Cup Final: Bengaluru FC defeated Bangalore Super Strikers FC 3-0, sealing their dominance with a comprehensive victory.
- Under-9 Cup Final: In a closely contested match, Bangalore Super Strikers FC emerged victorious with a 2-1 win over Bengaluru FC, ensuring a memorable double win for their club.
- Under-7 Cup Final: Despite their strong league performance, The Football People Academy succumbed to a 4-1 defeat against Bangalore City FC.
Overview of the Inaugural League
The inaugural PSDL featured 38 teams across three categories. Matches were played in a round-robin format, with each team playing against the others once. The top teams in each category proceeded to the knockout stages, where the PSDL Cup winners were decided. A total of 360 players participated: 180 in the Under-11 category, 140 in the Under-9 category, and 40 in the Under-7 category.
Support and Sponsorship
The success of the PSDL was bolstered by support from leading brands and organizations:
- Venue Partner: South United Football Club
- Performance Analytics Partner: Footrax
- Statistics Partner: Whistle
- Technical Partner: The Right Player Sports (TRP Sports)
Organized by Pyramid Sports, PSDL aimed to provide young players with invaluable match experience in a competitive environment. The inaugural season highlighted the potential of grassroots football in India, setting a high standard for future editions. The remarkable performances of Bengaluru FC, Bangalore Super Strikers FC, and The Football People Academy have set a benchmark, inspiring young footballers across the nation.
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