A hero’s welcome was accorded to the victorious 10-member squad of footballers who returned to village Rurka Kalan on Saturday, after having won the second position at the Street Child World Cup 2026, which recently concluded at Mexico City.
In a historic achievement for Indian grassroots football, the Youth Football Club (YFC) Rurka Kalan team of 10, proudly represented India at the prestigious Street Child World Cup and returned home as Runners-Up, after an impressive sporting outing against the best teams on the global stage.
Flower petals and marigolds dotted the streets of Rurka Kalan as team members took out a roadshow, amidst a cheery welcome accorded with garlands, flowers and laddoos to the beats of dhol.
Village players accompanied team members during their victory rally, as residents showered them with flowers.
Street Child World Cup tournament featured teams from over 20 countries.
Players representing India included Silas Sidhu, Arshdeep, Jashanpreet, Rajan Jakhu, Sameer, Raminder Singh, Sam Masih and goalkeeper Shamsher Singh Akash. The team was guided by head coach Anwar Ali, team leader Harsh Jaisukh Chotaliya and team manager Nupur Nag.
During the tournament, team India delivered a series of outstanding performances against top international opponents. India began the tourney with an impressive 3-0 victory over Indonesia, followed by a 2-0 win against Argentina, thereafter defeating Germany, (3-0) Malaysia (in decisive 8-0 victory), hosts Mexico (6-0), Egypt (1-0) and finally defeated defending champions Egypt again in the semi-final (1-0).
In the grand finale, India faced off with tournament favorites Brazil in a thrilling encounter, before losing narrowly 4-2, and finishing as proud runners-up.
A special felicitation ceremony was organised at the YFC Multi Sports Complex, Rurka Kalan, to honour the young with medals and trophies. Varjeet Walia, Deputy Commissioner Jalandhar, attended as chief guest at the Generation Amazing Community Club, Rurka Kalan, specially to congratulate players and coaching staff.
DC Varjeet Walia praised the determination, discipline and hard work shown by the young footballers and appreciated the transformational work being carried out by YFC Rurka Kalan in the areas of youth development, sports, education and community empowerment.
He said the team had become an inspiration for the country and assured the club and village of his full support for future initiatives and works.
Club president Gurmangal Das Soni expressing gratitude to all the sponsors and partners who supported the team’s journey.
He said, “We are proud of our boys’ incredible spirit of resilience and impressive win. The collective contribution of all sponsors and supporters helped players proudly represent India on international stage to achieve this memorable milestone."
Sarpanch, Rurka Kalan, Akwinder Kaur, former Sarpanch Kulwinder Kaur, members of Gram Panchayat, Sarva Pakhi Vikas Manch, Baljit Singh (former Tehsildar), Lupinder Kumar (Divisional Soil Conservation Officer), among others were also present.
