India, Jan. 4 -- A warning beyond one result

Goa's early exit from the Santosh Trophy 2025 was more than a disappointing result. It was a warning - one that has been building quietly for years in a State that once set the benchmark for Indian football. For decades, Goa was the gold standard of the domestic game, producing match-hardened footballers and regularly challenging for national honours. Today, the same State struggles to get past the opening round, forcing uncomfortable questions that go far beyond missed chances or one bad night on the field. That alarm has now been sounded by one of Goa's most respected footballing voices. Former India goalkeeper Brahmanand Sankhwalkar believes restrictive player eligibility rules have steadil...