New Delhi: Trials for TV9 Network;s News9 Indian Tigers and Tigresses Season 2 were successfully held in Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha, to discover India’s emerging young football talent. The event, held in collaboration with ODM Global School, was held at its stadium, where 14 teams from various schools across Odisha participated.
Hundreds of Under-17 players showcased their skills during the four-day trials, which ran from January 23rd to 26th. Amidst exciting and competitive matches, the players tried their best to catch the attention of the selectors. These trials are considered one of the most prestigious Under-17 football events in Odisha.
The entire event, a joint initiative between TV9 Network and ODM Global School, aims to bring the best young football talent from across the country to an international platform.
The ultimate journey to Germany
Players who excel in these school-level trials will advance to the final round of News9 Indian Tigers and Tigresses Season 2. The 30 selected young players will receive specialised training in Germany, where they will train at world-class facilities under the guidance of top coaches.
Through TV9 Network’s partnership with the Bundesliga, these players will have the opportunity to make their mark internationally.
Historic first season
Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave a historic send-off to the country’s top young footballers selected in the football talent hunt programme at the ‘What India Thinks Today 2025’ (WITT 2025) Global Summit in New Delhi. Organised by TV9, India’s largest news network, the Global Summit was held in March 2025 at the Bharat Mandapam in Delhi.
Following the successful tour of Europe, the young footballers were welcomed at home by Honourable Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and Austrian Ambassador to India, Katharina Wieser, at the Austrian Embassy.
Now, Season 2 is moving towards its final stage, and as the trials near their final stages, the race to make it to the top 30 players is becoming even more intense and exciting.