RFDL 2025-26: All teams that have qualified for the National group stage
Zonal battles conclude as National group stage line-up is confirmed in RFDL
The zonal phase of the Reliance Foundation Development League (RFDL) delivered drama, dominance and emerging talent in equal measure.
Across four fiercely contested groups, young prospects stepped up, traditional powerhouses asserted themselves, and a new generation of Indian footballers announced their arrival. With the dust now settled, the road to the National Group Stage is officially set.
Zonal group stage recap
Group A witnessed a tightly fought race at the top. Sreenidi Deccan FC showcased consistency and defensive solidity to finish first, while Kerala Blasters FC and Bengaluru FC kept pace throughout the campaign.
The margins were slim, and every point proved crucial in a competitive southern battle.
In Group B , technical quality and attacking football defined the standings. SESA FA led the charge with an unbeaten run, while FC Goa and Dempo SC demonstrated their pedigree to secure qualification spots.
The Goa zone once again underlined its reputation as a breeding ground for talent.
Group C saw Punjab FC emerge as the dominant force, combining attacking firepower with defensive stability.
Sudeva Delhi FC and Northeast United FC followed closely, ensuring the fight for the top three remained alive until the closing rounds.
Meanwhile, Group D arguably delivered the most high-profile clashes. Diamond Harbour FC topped the standings with an impressive run, while East Bengal FC and Mohun Bagan SG ensured that Kolkata’s traditional rivalry extended into the developmental stage, making qualification a hard-earned achievement.
Qualified teams for the National group stage
Group A
| Teams | Matches Played | Win | Loss | Draw | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sreenidi Deccan FC (Q) | 5 | 3 | 0 | 2 | 11 |
| Kerala Blasters FC (Q) | 5 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 10 |
| Bengaluru FC (Q) | 5 | 3 | 2 | 0 | 9 |
| South United FC | 5 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 7 |
| PFC Kerala | 5 | 1 | 3 | 1 | 4 |
| Real Malabar FC | 5 | 0 | 4 | 1 | 1 |
Group B
| Teams | Matches Played | Win | Loss | Draw | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sesa FA (Q) | 5 | 4 | 0 | 1 | 13 |
| FC Goa (Q) | 5 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 10 |
| Dempo SC (Q) | 5 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 7 |
| RFY Champs | 5 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 6 |
| MH Oranje FC | 5 | 1 | 3 | 1 | 4 |
| Community FC India | 5 | 0 | 4 | 1 | 1 |
Group C
| Teams | Matches Played | Win | Loss | Draw | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Punjab FC (Q) | 5 | 4 | 0 | 1 | 13 |
| Sudeva Delhi FC (Q) | 5 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 10 |
| NorthEast United FC (Q) | 5 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 10 |
| Classic FA | 5 | 2 | 3 | 0 | 6 |
| Rangdajied United FC | 5 | 1 | 3 | 1 | 4 |
| ASUFII FA | 5 | 0 | 5 | 0 | 0 |
Group D
| Teams | Matches Played | Win | Loss | Draw | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diamond Harbour FC (Q) | 5 | 4 | 0 | 1 | 13 |
| East Bengal FC (Q) | 5 | 4 | 1 | 0 | 12 |
| Mohun Bagan SG (Q) | 5 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 8 |
| Bidhannagar MSA | 5 | 2 | 3 | 0 | 6 |
| Rajasthan United FC | 5 | 1 | 4 | 0 | 3 |
| United SC | 5 | 0 | 4 | 1 | 1 |
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Ayushman Sharma is a sports enthusiast with a deep love for football, following the game closely since 2018. A hardcore supporter of NorthEast United FC and FC Barcelona, he has also gained valuable on-ground experience by volunteering during FIFA World Cup Qualifiers in Guwahati.