The Indian women’s football team has secured a historic victory by winning the gold medal at the 2024 South Asian Games held in Dhaka, Bangladesh. In a thrilling final match, India defeated Nepal 3-1 to clinch their first gold medal in women’s football at the South Asian Games.
The match, played at the Bangabandhu National Stadium, saw India showcasing their attacking prowess and solid defense. India’s striker, Manisha Kalyan, was the standout performer, scoring two goals and providing an assist in a dynamic display of skill and precision. Her performance was pivotal in securing the victory for India.
India took the lead in the 15th minute when Manisha Kalyan expertly finished a cross from the right wing, sending a powerful shot into the bottom corner of the net. Nepal responded with determination and managed to equalize in the 34th minute through a well-placed header by their captain, Sabina Khatun.
However, India regained their advantage shortly after halftime. In the 52nd minute, Kalyan scored her second goal of the match with a stunning solo effort, dribbling past several defenders before slotting the ball into the net. The final blow came in the 78th minute when Indian midfielder Aditi Chauhan scored from a long-range free-kick, securing the 3-1 victory.
Indian head coach, Thomas Dennerby, praised the team’s performance and resilience. “Winning the gold medal at the South Asian Games is a significant achievement for Indian women’s football. The players displayed great skill, teamwork, and determination throughout the tournament. I’m incredibly proud of their performance and dedication,” Dennerby said.
Nepal’s coach, Kumar Thapa, acknowledged India’s superiority in the final. “India played exceptionally well and deserved the win. It was a competitive match, and we will take this experience to improve and prepare for future challenges,” Thapa remarked.
The victory is a landmark moment for Indian women’s football, reflecting the growth and potential of the sport in the country. The Indian team’s success in the South Asian Games highlights their development and sets the stage for future competitions, including the AFC Women’s Asian Cup.
Back in India, the news of the team’s gold medal win was met with widespread celebration. Social media was flooded with congratulatory messages from fans, sports experts, and public figures. Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted, “Congratulations to the Indian women’s football team for their historic gold medal at the South Asian Games. Your hard work, dedication, and skill have brought great pride to our nation. Well done!”
As the team returns to India, they will be honored with a grand welcome, celebrating their historic achievement and marking a new chapter in Indian women’s football. The gold medal win is expected to inspire a new generation of football players and contribute to the continued growth of the sport in India.