Teams
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Lonestar Kashmir FC
Bengaluru B
FC Bengaluru United
Ozone FC
Mohammedan SC
FC Goa II
Delhi United
Hindustan FC
Kenkre FC
Trau FC
United SC
Fateh Hyderabad FC
Chennaiyin II
Sudeva Delhi FC
Dempo SC
Jamshedpur FC II
Kerala Blasters II
SC Bengaluru
Sporting Clube de Goa
Ara FC
ATK Reserves
Southern Samity
Real Kashmir FC
Mumbai City FC II
Pune City B
Rainbow SC
Chhinga Veng FC
Neroca FC
Delhi Dynamos II
Hyderabad FC II
Kerala FA
Langsning SC
Ambernath United
Shillong Lajong FC
Punjab FC Reserves
Garhwal FC
FC Kerala
Madhya Bharat SC
South United
Golden Threads FC
Bhawanipore FC
Downtown Heroes FC
East Bengal Club II
Rajasthan FA
Pride Sports
United Chirang Duar FC
Jagat Singh Palahi FA
The Diamond Rock FA
Delhi FA
Corbett FC
Wikipedia - I-League 2
The I-League 2 is an Indian men's professional football league. It is the 3rd tier of the Indian football league system, behind the Indian Super League and the I-League. It operates as a system of promotion and relegation with the I-League and the I-League 3.
History
I-League 2nd Division was introduced during the 2008 season, with first game played on 25 March between Mohammedan Sporting and Amity United.
That season saw Mohammedan Sporting, Mumbai FC, Vasco SC and Chirag United promoted to the I-League. The next season saw Pune FC, Shillong Lajong, Viva Kerala and Salgaocar getting promoted.
Since 2010, only top 2 teams were promoted to the I-League. ONGC FC and HAL SC in that year, in 2011 Shillong Lajong and Sporting Clube de Goa, with Lajong being promoted for the second time. In 2012, ONGC and United Sikkim were promoted for the upcoming season. The 2013 saw Rangdajied United FC and Mohammedan qualifying for the I-League.
In 2014, only one team got promoted from the 2nd Division, and similarly only one team got relegated from 2013–14 season.
In 2016, again only one team was promoted from the 2nd division (Aizawl F.C.), and only one was relegated from the I-League (Dempo).
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the traditional final round format was scrapped in 2020. It was decided that the league will be rescheduled into a new format and all non-reserve teams from the preliminary stage will automatically progress to this round. It was officially named as I-League Qualifiers. After making of I-League as second division of Indian football, the AIFF decided to rename 2nd Division to I-league 2.
The India I-League 2nd Division is a prestigious football tournament that serves as the second tier of professional football in India, providing a vital platform for emerging talent and clubs aspiring to reach the top echelons of Indian football. Established to promote competitive play and enhance the development of the sport across the nation, the tournament features a diverse array of teams from various regions, showcasing the rich footballing culture of India.
**Format and Structure:**
The I-League 2nd Division typically consists of multiple teams competing in a league format, with each team playing home and away matches. The tournament is designed to foster competitive spirit and skill development, culminating in a promotion playoff for the top-performing teams. The best teams from the 2nd Division have the opportunity to earn promotion to the I-League, the premier football league in India, thereby elevating their status and providing greater exposure.
**Talent Development:**
The I-League 2nd Division plays a crucial role in identifying and nurturing young talent, offering players a chance to showcase their skills on a national stage. Many clubs in the tournament focus on developing homegrown players, contributing to the overall growth of football in India. Scouts and coaches closely monitor the tournament, making it a critical stepping stone for aspiring footballers aiming for professional careers.
**Community Engagement:**
Beyond the competitive aspect, the I-League 2nd Division fosters community engagement and local support for football. Clubs often have strong ties to their local communities, and matches attract passionate fans who rally behind their teams. This grassroots connection helps to promote the sport and inspire the next generation of players and supporters.
**Conclusion:**
The India I-League 2nd Division is more than just a football tournament; it is a vital component of the Indian football ecosystem, promoting talent, fostering competition, and engaging communities. As clubs vie for promotion and players strive to make their mark, the tournament continues to be a beacon of hope and opportunity for the future of Indian football.