India kicked off their SAFF Women’s Championship 2024 campaign in style, overpowering Pakistan 5-2 in a dominant Group A match at the Dasharath Stadium on Thursday. The victory marked an emphatic start for the Blue Tigresses. Who secured three crucial points in the three-team group, which also includes Bangladesh.
The match was a historic one for Indian captain Loitongbam Ashalata Devi, who earned her 100th international cap. And striker Ngangom Bala Devi, who netted her 50th international goal, becoming the first Indian woman footballer to achieve this-milestone.
India’s goal-scoring spree was led by Grace Dangmei, who netted twice, while Manisha, Bala Devi, and Jyoti Chauhan each-added one-goal. Pakistan’s goals came from Suha Hirani and Kayla Marie Siddique.
The game started with India on the front foot, as Grace Dangmei opened the scoring in the fifth minute. Converting a sharp cross from wing-back Ranjana Chanu with a powerful shot from outside the box. India doubled their lead in the 17th minute, when Bala Devi delivered a precise through pass that allowed Manisha to calmly slot the ball past Pakistan’s goalkeeper, Nisha Ashraf.
Bala Devi had her own moment of glory in the 35th minute, scoring off an indirect free-kick to record her milestone 50th international goal. Grace Dangmei added her second goal just before halftime, heading in another perfect cross from Ranjana, making it 4-0.
Pakistan managed to pull one back before halftime through Suha Hirani, who converted a penalty with a well-placed shot into the top corner, leaving India’s goalkeeper, Panthoi Chanu, with little chance. Buoyed by goal, Pakistan found a second in the 46th-minute when Kayla Siddique capitalized on confusion in the Indian defense.
However, India restored their dominance with a fifth goal in the 78th minute. Jyoti Chauhan, who came off the bench, scored her first senior international goal with a header from a Dalima Chhibber corner.
India now looks ahead to their next group stage match against defending champions Bangladesh, where they will aim to continue their strong form.
Key Highlights:
- Ashalata Devi: 100th international appearance
- Bala Devi: 50th international goal
- Grace Dangmei: Scored twice, Player of the Match
Match Score:
- India 5 (Grace Dangmei 2, Manisha, Bala Devi, Jyoti Chauhan)
- Pakistan 2 (Suha Hirani, Kayla Marie Siddique)
India’s victory continues their undefeated record against Pakistan in women’s football, having won all four previous encounters.
Leave a Reply