India kicked off their South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Women’s Championship 2024 with a dominant 5-2 victory over Pakistan in their Group A match on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at the Dasharath Stadium. The five-time champions took a commanding 4-1 lead by halftime.
With this comfortable win, India earned three points in the opening game of the three-team group, which also includes Bangladesh.
The match marked two major milestones: captain Loitongbam Ashalata Devi’s 100th appearance for the Blue Tigresses and striker Ngangom Bala Devi’s 50th international goal, making her the first Indian woman footballer to achieve this feat, according to the All India Football Federation (AIFF).
India’s 5-2 Win Over Pakistan in SAFF Women’s Championship
The Indian women’s football team started their SAFF Women’s Championship 2024 campaign with a strong 5-2 win against Pakistan at the Dasarath Stadium. This dominant victory gave the team, led by coach Santosh Kashyap, a confident start as they look to keep their regional title.
India got off to a quick start, with Grace Dangmei scoring the first goal just 5 minutes into the game. She fired a powerful shot from the edge of the penalty area, giving India an early lead. In the 17th minute, Manisha Kalyan added a second goal for India. She took advantage of a perfectly timed pass from the experienced striker, Ngangom Bala Devi, to score and put India firmly in control.
The game also saw two special moments for the Indian team. Captain Loitongbam Ashalata Devi played her 100th match for the country, which is a huge achievement in football. On top of that, Bala Devi made history by scoring her 50th international goal, becoming the first Indian woman footballer to reach this impressive milestone.
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Grace Dangmei Shines with Two Goals
Grace Dangmei, who was later awarded Player of the Match, delivered an outstanding performance by scoring twice. Her first goal came from a well-placed shot after receiving a perfect cross from Ranjana Chanu, setting the pace for the game. Her second goal was a brilliant half-volley from a tight angle in the 38th minute, showcasing her sharp finishing skills and tireless energy on the wings.
Bala Devi was a constant danger throughout the match. She not only assisted Manisha’s goal but also scored herself in the 35th minute. Demonstrating her calm and control, Bala struck a powerful shot from an indirect free-kick, leaving the Pakistan goalkeeper with no chance to stop it.
India Extending Perfect Record in SAFF Championship Opener
Despite India’s strong performance, Pakistan managed to score just before halftime when Suha Hirani converted a penalty in the second minute of added time. In the early moments of the second half, Kayla Marie Siddiqi took advantage of a defensive mistake to score Pakistan’s second goal, bringing the score to 3-2.
India quickly responded to Pakistan’s resurgence. Substitute Jyoti Chauhan made an impact in the 68th minute by heading a corner from Dalima Chhibber into the net, sealing the match at 5-2.
This victory continues India’s perfect record against Pakistan in international matches, marking their fourth win in four encounters. With an enthusiastic crowd watching the intense rivalry, the Indian team displayed their skill and tactical discipline, setting a positive tone for the remainder of the tournament.
Next, the Blue Tigresses will face Bangladesh in their second Group A match.
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FAQs
Q.1. What was final score of the India vs. Pakistan match in the SAFF Women’s Championship 2024?
Ans. India won the match with a final score of 5-2 against Pakistan.
Q.2. Who were the standout players in the SAFF match?
Ans. Grace Dangmei was awarded Player of the Match for scoring two goals. Additionally, captain Loitongbam Ashalata Devi played her 100th match, and Ngangom Bala Devi scored her 50th international goal during the game.
Q.3. When and where did the SAFF match take place?
Ans. The match took place on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at the Dasharath Stadium.
Q.4. What milestones were achieved during the match?
Ans. Captain Loitongbam Ashalata Devi achieved her 100th international cap, while Ngangom Bala Devi became the first Indian woman footballer to score 50 international goals.
Q.5. What is the next match for the Indian women’s football team?
Ans. The Blue Tigresses will face Bangladesh in their second Group A match in the SAFF Women’s Championship 2024.
