Chandigarh: Minerva Academy FC is set to return to Scandinavia for the second consecutive year, with its young footballers preparing to compete in the prestigious Helsinki Cup in Finland and Gothia Cup in Sweden.After an impressive debut campaign last year, the Chandigarh-based academy is aiming for an even stronger performance. The spotlight will be on the B12 category at the Helsinki Cup, where Minerva narrowly missed the title after finishing runners-up in 2025.The academy’s previous Scandinavian tour earned praise from clubs and coaches across Europe, with its teams competing against strong opposition from Europe, South America, Africa and Asia.The Helsinki Cup is among Europe’s oldest youth football tournaments, while the Gothia Cup is regarded as the world’s largest international youth football competition, offering young players valuable international exposure.The squad includes Aswin Kathirvel Narayanan, Donald Marthong, Korou Meitei Khundongbam, Lalvang Haokip, Mekhamkhraw Nongrem, Nganba Meitei Khundongbam, Nongdrenkhomba Tayenjam, Paikhomba Khundrakpam, Potovei Chapao, Reewan Singh Thounaojam, Seiminsang Khongsai, Thangsanglen Kipgen, Wangshem Konyak, Yohenba Singh Konthoujam and Rimoson Singh Huidrom.
