Bhubaneswar : In a stunning display of talent, grit, and relentless determination, Minerva Academy’s Under-14 football team from Mohali, Punjab, scripted an unprecedented chapter in Indian football history by winning the prestigious European treble in 2025. The team conquered the Gothia Cup in Sweden, the Dana Cup in Denmark, and the Norway Cup in Norway — the three biggest youth football tournaments on the planet — leaving football fans and experts worldwide in awe.
The journey saw Minerva’s young warriors remain unbeaten in 26 matches, scoring a mind-blowing total of 295 goals while barely conceding any. Their remarkable record included dominant wins like 25-0 and 22-0 in Norway Cup group stages, and a 4-0 victory over Argentina’s Escuela de Football 18 Tucumán in the Gothia Cup final. Raj, the team’s top scorer, netted an astonishing 60 goals across the three tournaments.
“This is a new beginning for Indian football,” declared Union Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, who felicitated the team in New Delhi. He emphasized the importance of confidence, passion, and sports science in maintaining this winning momentum.
Highlights:
Three Countries, Three Trophies: Sweden (Gothia Cup), Denmark (Dana Cup), Norway (Norway Cup)
Unbeaten Streak: 26 matches without a loss
Goals Galore: 295 goals scored across tournaments
Record-Breaking Wins: Biggest margins in Dana Cup and Norway Cup finals
Fastest Goal: 3.8 seconds in Norway Cup history
Star Players: Konthoujam Yohenba Singh (Best Player, Gothia Cup), Huidrom Tony (Best Player, Dana Cup), Raj (scored 60 goals)
This historic treble, achieved between July and August 2025, has not only elevated Minerva Academy onto the world stage but also instilled new hope and belief in Indian football’s future. The prestigious tournaments are known as the proving grounds for future global stars like Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Martin Odegaard, and now Minerva’s young talents have etched their names alongside such legends.
The players, aged just 14 and 15, adapted to tough Scandinavian conditions with rigorous training, including early morning sessions starting at 3 a.m., showcasing physical and mental resilience beyond their years. Beyond the trophies, Minerva Academy’s success symbolizes the power of discipline, preparation, and teamwork.
As the team sets its sights on the Mediterranean International Cup in Spain, this historic feat is already inspiring a new generation of Indian footballers and the entire nation.
“Indian football can rise, compete, and inspire globally,” said Ranjit Bajaj, Minerva’s visionary founder and director. The message is clear: India’s football revolution has begun — and Minerva Academy is leading the charge.
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