Top five most successful teams in history of Santosh Trophy

West Bengal has been the most successful team in the Santosh Trophy.

The Santosh Trophy is one of India’s oldest and most prestigious football tournaments, first held in 1941. It brings together state teams from across the country to compete in a national championship.

As the competition is set to kick off from 21st January this year, let us look at the top 5 most successful teams in Santosh Trophy history

5. Goa

Goa ranks 5th among the most successful teams that the competition has ever seen. They hold a special place in Santosh Trophy history with 5 titles and several memorable runs in the tournament. Goa also finished as the runners-up in the competition 9 times.

The last time that they won the competition was in the year 2008-09. The state has produced some of India’s finest footballers, many of whom went on to shape the country’s club and international football landscape. Goa’s success in the Santosh Trophy is a reflection of its strong grassroots system and deep connection with the sport. Win or lose, Goa have consistently played the game with identity and pride.

4. Services

Services have built a unique and respected legacy in the Santosh Trophy, representing the Indian Armed Forces with pride and purpose. They have managed to win the competition 7 times and have also finished the competition 5 times as the runner-up.

Services have emerged as consistent contenders, often outworking and outlasting their opponents. Their success is a reflection of unity and resilience, making Services one of the most distinctive and competitive teams in Santosh Trophy history. Recently, they managed to win the competition in the year 2023-24, which makes them the 4th most successful team in the competition.

3. Kerala

Kerala have emerged as the most successful team from south of India in the competition; they have managed to get a respected place in Santosh Trophy history with 7 title wins and an impressive 9 runners up finishes. The last time that they managed to win the competition was in the year 2021-22.

Known for their passionate football culture and loyal fan base, Kerala have often combined flair with intensity, making them one of the most exciting teams to watch. Over the years, the state has produced several influential footballers who later became key figures in Indian football. Even in seasons where the trophy slipped away, Kerala’s consistency in reaching the latter stages underlines their competitive mindset.

Also Read: Santosh Trophy 2026: Full fixtures, teams & groups

2. Punjab

Punjab is the 2nd most successful team that the competition has witnessed, with a proud record of 8 title wins and 8 runners-up finishes. Although they won the competition quite a while ago in the year 2007-08, Punjab have always been known for their physical strength, discipline, and fearless approach on the pitch.

Across generations, the state has consistently contributed quality footballers to the national scene, making Punjab’s Santosh Trophy legacy about far more than just trophies.

1. West Bengal/Bengal

West Bengal continue to set the gold standard in Santosh Trophy history and enters the tournament as the defending champions, further strengthening their legendary status. With an unmatched 33 title wins and 14 runner-up finishes, no other team comes close to their consistency or dominance at the national stage.

What truly defines West Bengal’s legacy is their historic 6-title-winning streak between 1993 and 1999, a period that showcased their depth, discipline, and relentless winning mentality. West Bengal is a benchmark of success for all other teams in the Santosh Trophy.

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