Shillong, Feb 13: The Assam Rifles Sentinels Cup is back for its much-anticipated 4th edition, set to be held from 17th February to 27th February 2026, and will be played at different venues in Shillong. Building on the legacy of its previous editions, the Sentinels Cup continues to serve as a platform for showcasing the region’s footballing talent, fostering community spirit and promoting the message of sportsmanship and unity.
Since its inception, the Sentinels Cup has been a true testament to the rich football culture of the North East. The tournament, named after Assam Rifles’ proud moniker, the “Sentinels of the North East,” has seen unparalleled enthusiasm from teams across the region. The last edition, held in 2025, brought together the best footballing talent. This year, the competition is expected to be even fiercer and more vibrant as the tournament has been opened for both men and women.
As always, the Assam Rifles Sentinels Cup will see a wide representation from clubs hailing from Meghalaya, as well as Assam Rifles, Indian Army and Meghalaya Police. The tournament will feature eight teams each in Men and Women category who shall compete through group stages, followed by knockout rounds, leading up to the highly anticipated final. The matches will showcase fast-paced, high-intensity football, with each team bringing their best in terms of skill, strategy and heart.
This edition of the Sentinels Cup promises to bring even more excitement, with the grand opening scheduled for 17th February 2026, at SSA 1 Ground Polo. The victorious team will not only earn the pride of representing their club/state or unit but will also take home a cash prize of Rs 3,00,000/- (Rupees Three Lakhs only) along with the prestigious Sentinels Cup Trophy. The tournament will culminate in a spectacular final match on 27th February 2026 for both Men and Women, set against a stunning backdrop that highlights the natural beauty of the North East.
The inaugural match of the tournament will be played on 17 February 2026 at 1400 hrs and the grand finale will take place on 27 February 2026 at SSA 1 Ground Polo. Entry to both matches is free of charge. Everyone is warmly invited to witness the thrilling competition and come forward to support the teams in what promises to be an exciting tournament.
In line with its mission to promote sports and engage the youth of the North East, the Assam Rifles continues to use the Sentinels Cup as a medium to motivate the region’s youth to steer clear of insurgency and drugs, while encouraging them to embrace the positive power of sports.
The Assam Rifles is committed to nurturing football talent through its MoU with the Bhaichung Bhutia Football Academy and Assam Rifles Public School (Sports), which actively works to tap into the potential of the region’s young footballers. The Sentinels Cup is more than just a football tournament-it’s a celebration of culture, unity, and the spirit of the North East.
It serves as an important avenue for youth to showcase their skills and take the first step toward a professional football career, under the guidance of seasoned coaches and mentors. The tournament’s partnership with Khelo India Abhiyan and the Fit India Movement only strengthens its role as a catalyst for positive change in the region.
