India’s women’s football team kicked off their SAFF Women’s Championship 2024 campaign in emphatic style, defeating arch-rivals Pakistan 5-2 in a Group A match at the Dasharath Stadium on Thursday, October 17, 2024.

In a thrilling encounter, the five-time champions displayed their superiority, leading 4-1 at halftime and securing a comfortable win to mark the beginning of their journey. The match was also notable for skipper Loitongbam Ashalata Devi’s 100th appearance and striker Ngangom Bala Devi’s milestone 50th international goal, a feat no other Indian female footballer has achieved.

India’s Blistering Start

The Blue Tigresses wasted no time asserting their dominance, with the opening goal coming just five minutes into the match. Player of the Match Grace Dangmei found the back of the net with a powerful shot from outside the box, capitalizing on an excellent cross from wing-back Ranjana Chanu, who was a constant threat on the left flank. Pakistan’s defence struggled to cope with India’s early aggression, and the momentum was firmly with the Indian side.

Bala Devi Shines with Skill and Milestones

India’s second goal in the 17th minute was a display of Bala Devi’s playmaking genius. The veteran forward delivered a precise through ball that sliced open Pakistan’s defence, allowing Manisha to beat goalkeeper Nisha Ashraf with a clinical left-footed finish. This goal left Pakistan reeling and further cemented Bala Devi’s pivotal role in India’s attacking prowess.

The moment of the match came in the 35th minute when Bala Devi etched her name in the history books by scoring her 50th international goal. A free-kick opportunity gave Bala the perfect stage, and she delivered with a powerful strike that left Pakistan’s custodian with no chance. Her tearful expression during the National Anthem earlier in the match hinted at the emotional significance of this achievement for her.

Grace Dangmei’s Double Strike

Grace Dangmei was relentless throughout the first half, and her efforts were rewarded once again in the 42nd minute when she scored India’s fourth goal.

A cross from Ranjana Chanu, who was a constant menace for Pakistan’s backline, found Grace in the box, and she slotted it home with ease. Pakistan’s struggles were compounded as they faced an uphill task, but they managed to pull one back just before halftime.

Pakistan’s Brief Fightback

In the dying moments of the first half, Pakistan was awarded a penalty, which Suha Hirani confidently converted, sending an angular shot to the top corner that was beyond the reach of India’s goalkeeper Panthoi Chanu. This goal lifted Pakistan’s spirits, and they returned from the break looking rejuvenated. They managed to add another goal early in the second half through Kayla Marie Siddique, who capitalized on confusion in the Indian defence to make it 4-2.

Pakistan’s newfound energy put India on the defensive for a brief period, but they struggled to create clear-cut chances. India, however, remained composed, with Ashalata Devi marshalling the defence effectively to thwart any further breakthroughs.

India Seals Victory with a Fifth Goal

Despite Pakistan’s attempts to mount a comeback, India’s experience and tactical discipline shone through. Substitute Jyoti Chauhan delivered the final blow in the 78th minute, scoring her first goal for the senior national team. Jyoti’s well-timed header from Dalima Chhibber’s corner was the perfect response to Pakistan’s pressure and extinguished any remaining hopes for a Pakistani comeback.

India’s dominant 5-2 win over Pakistan in their SAFF Women’s Championship opener was a statement of intent from the Blue Tigresses. With key players like Bala Devi and Grace Dangmei leading the charge, and Ashalata Devi’s 100th appearance adding an extra layer of pride, the Indian team showcased their class and strength on the international stage. With three points secured, they now set their sights on the next challenge in their quest for a sixth SAFF Women’s Championship title.