JEDDAH: The N-COMFORT & NISS Arabia Dhamaka 2K26 Football Tournament drew to a spectacular close with Reem Al Ula FC lifting the championship trophy after a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Ban Bakery FC in a pulsating final held at the Olympics Village Stadium, Mushrif.
The two-day football extravaganza witnessed an overwhelming response, attracting more than 2,000 spectators, and marked a historic milestone as the first Indian community football tournament in Saudi Arabia conducted with official recognition from the Saudi Sports Authority. The stadium erupted with passion as the fans proved once again to be the “12th man,” their unwavering energy and thunderous support driving the team forward like an invisible force on the pitch.
Jointly organized by NISS Arabia and N-COMFORT, the tournament transformed the venue into a vibrant sporting hub, uniting football enthusiasts from across Jeddah. Six teams contested in the competition—Ban Bakery FC, Black Ride FC, and Champs FC in Group A, while Arab Dream FC, Reem Al Ula FC, and Seven Star FC formed Group B.
After an impressive league-stage campaign, Reem Al Ula FC and Ban Bakery FC advanced to the grand finale. The tournament featured several standout performers, including C.P. Suhair, Dilshad Ahmed, Suhail, Ashiq, Munshid, Akmal Khan, and Almas, alongside talented players from Dammam, adding depth, intensity, and competitive edge to the event.
The final lived up to its billing as both sides engaged in an enthralling contest. The breakthrough arrived in the first half when Suhail unleashed a sensational long-range strike that left Ban Bakery FC goalkeeper Ashiq with no chance. Reem Al Ula FC nearly doubled their advantage, but Suhair’s penalty soared over the crossbar, keeping the contest finely poised until the end. Despite relentless pressure from Ban Bakery FC, Reem Al Ula FC held their nerve to secure a memorable triumph.
The winners’ trophy was presented by Abdul Latheef Kappungal (Chairman, N-COMFORT), Naushad Chathalloor (Managing Director, NISS Arabia), Dr. Indu Chandrasekharan (CEO, NISS Arabia), and Master Mohammed Yaseen Latheef. The runners-up trophy was handed over by Mujeeb Regal (Chairman, Regal Group) along with representatives of NISS Arabia.
Individual accolades went to Dilshad Ahmed (Ban Bakery FC), who clinched both the Player of the Tournament and Top Scorer awards. Iqbal was adjudged Best Goalkeeper for his composed and consistent performances between the posts, while Ashiq earned special recognition for his outstanding contributions throughout the tournament.
Adding further excitement, an Under-17 exhibition match between IIS Jeddah and Talent FC showcased emerging footballing talent, with IIS Jeddah dominating proceedings to secure a commanding 5–0 victory, underlining the promising future of football in the region.
A defining feature of the tournament was the deployment of FIFA- and Saudi Sports Authority-approved referees, whose professional officiating and strict adherence to the laws of the game ensured high standards of fairness and competitiveness. Their performance was widely praised by players and spectators, enhancing the credibility of the event.
The opening ceremony was inaugurated by Sahran Saleh Al Ghamdi (Operations Manager, N-COMFORT) in the presence of distinguished guests, including Abdul Latheef Kappungal, Mujeeb Regal, and V.P. Mohammed Ali (Chairman, Jeddah National Hospital Group), along with representatives of the Saudi Sports Authority, who, with perspicacious appreciation, commended the organizers for delivering a meticulously executed sporting spectacle.
Technical operations, including live scoreboards and video production, were managed by Master Shayan Naushad, while the event was compered by Rafi Beemapally, Engineer Junaid, and Sneha Sam. The organizing committee, led by Dr. Indu Chandrasekharan and Naushad Chathalloor, coordinated the tournament with the support of volunteers and members of Jeddah’s football fraternity.
The tournament was powered by N-COMFORT as Title Sponsor, with Regal Gold & Diamonds as Powered By Partner, and supported by Reem Al Ula Trading Company, Jeddah National Hospital, MAC Arabia Company, Shifa Bawadi & Al Mas Medical Group, and Emerald Business Group.
Widely lauded for its professional execution, competitive spirit, and enthusiastic fan turnout, Dhamaka 2K26 concluded as one of the most successful community football tournaments in Jeddah, leaving spectators hopeful for even grander editions in the years ahead. The passionate supporters once again proved that they truly bleed the club’s colors, standing as an unwavering pillar of motivation whose energy and loyalty elevated the entire tournament atmosphere to extraordinary heights.
M Siraj
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