Zinc Football Academy’s Dominant Run keeps them Top of AIFF U-18 Elite League Group B

Zinc Football Academy stays Unbeaten

Zinc Football Academy (ZFA) have emerged as one of the standout teams of the AIFF Under-18 Elite League 2025–26, continuing their remarkable unbeaten run after ten matches in the Zonal Round.

With four games still to play, ZFA sit comfortably at the top of Group B, underlining their consistency and dominance across both home and away fixtures.

Zinc Football Academy’s campaign so far

The AIFF Under-18 Elite League Zonal Round, which kicked off in November 2025, runs until March 2026, with teams playing 14 home-and-away matches across zonal centres.

Zinc Football Academy host their home games at the Hindustan Zinc Stadium in Debari and the MKM Stadium in Zawar, while travelling across cities for away fixtures.

ZFA’s grip on the top spot in Group B has come through consistent performances both home and away. They have registered big wins over Rajasthan United, Delhi FC, Lake City FC and Lucknow Falcons, while also holding firm in competitive draws against Techtro Lucknow FC and Juba Sangha FC.

With eight wins and two draws, ZFA lead the table with 26 points from ten matches, staying ahead of Sudeva Delhi FC.

Their dominance has been driven by an attacking unit that has scored 43 goals so far, led by striker Ashish Chetry, who has netted 19 times in ten outings, including three hat-tricks.

Local prospects Himesh Meena and Ritik Meena have played key roles, while a disciplined defense has conceded just three goals and kept eight clean sheets this season.

Challenge ahead

With four matches left in the zonal round, Zinc Football Academy will look to carry their momentum forward as they chase qualification for the Final Round of the AIFF Under-18 Elite League 2025–26. Three of those fixtures will be at home, giving ZFA a strong platform heading into the business end of the season.

Hindustan Zinc’s academy side will host Techtro Lucknow FC on February 9, followed by Lucknow Falcons FC on February 25 and Lake City FC on March 4, before travelling to Delhi for a crucial away clash against title contenders Sudeva Delhi FC on February 16.

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