RFDL National Championships 2025-26 Final: Bengaluru FC, FC Goa go head-to-head for title - full schedule, where to watch live
After commanding semi-final victories, Bengaluru FC and FC Goa face off on April 18 in Bambolim - here's everything you need to know about the RFDL final. Watch live on RF Sports’ YouTube channel.
The Reliance Foundation Development League (RFDL) 2025-26 season is down to its final two. Bengaluru FC and FC Goa have earned their places in the RFDL National Championship Final with commanding semi-final performances, and Indian football fans are in for a blockbuster showdown on April 18 at the GMC Athletic Stadium in Bambolim, Goa.
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Bengaluru FC: The dominant force
Bengaluru FC arrive at the RFDL final as the most clinical side in the competition. Their semi-final demolition of Kerala Blasters FC, a staggering 10-0 on aggregate, including a 7-0 first-leg victory, announced them as the undisputed favourites heading into the finale.
Captain Serto Kom has been the standout performer of the RFDL 2025-26 season, consistently delivering with headed goals and composed finishes that have exposed opposition defences.
Creative midfielder MD Arbash and the industrious Ashik Adhikari have further strengthened their engine room, while a perfect defensive record across the knockout stage underlines the cohesion of this Bengaluru FC side.
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FC Goa: Resilient, hungry, and playing at home
FC Goa's road to the RFDL National Championship Final combined early dominance with gritty determination. A 4-0 first-leg dismantling of Punjab FC, driven by the performances of Asher Rodrigues and Shaikh Mohamad Ismail, gave the Young Gaurs a commanding cushion. Despite a 2-1 reverse in the second leg, their 5-2 aggregate win sealed progression with authority.
Goalkeeper Lionel Daryl Rymmei was crucial in protecting that lead, producing key saves when Punjab pushed for a way back. However, FC Goa face a significant team news concern going into the final; the suspension of key player Sitroy Carvalho will test the tactical flexibility of their coaching setup against Bengaluru's relentless attacking unit.
The home advantage and the roar of Goan supporters at Bambolim could prove to be a decisive factor.
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Where to Watch the RFDL Final
Indian football fans can watch the RFDL 2025-26 National Championship Final live and free on the Reliance Foundation Youth Sports YouTube channel. The match kicks off on April 18 at GMC Athletic Stadium, Bambolim, Goa. Live streams and comprehensive coverage will also be available on the Reliance Foundation Youth Sports official website.
Don't miss a moment of what promises to be a landmark occasion for developmental football in India.
Third-Place Playoff: Kerala Blasters FC vs Punjab FC
Before the grand finale, the third-place playoff between Kerala Blasters FC and Punjab FC takes place on the same day at 8:00 AM IST. Punjab FC, backed by the goal-scoring form of Vishal Yadav and Konsam Sanathoi Singh, will carry momentum from their second-leg win over Goa. The Blasters, meanwhile, will be eager to end their RFDL campaign with a podium finish after a tough exit at the semi-final stage.
RFDL 2025-26 Final: Match details at a glance
Tournament: Reliance Foundation Development League (RFDL) 2025-26 National Championship
Date: April 18, 2025
3rd Place: Kerala Blasters FC vs Punjab FC | 8:00 AM IST
Final: Bengaluru FC vs FC Goa | 4:00 PM IST
Venue: GMC Athletic Stadium, Bambolim, Goa
Where to Watch RFDL Final: Reliance Foundation Youth Sports YouTube channel & official website
