Key Highlights:
India’s win: 5-2 victory over Pakistan.
Ashalata Devi’s 100th cap: The captain’s landmark appearance for India.
Bala Devi’s 50th goal: The prolific striker becomes the first Indian woman to score 50 international goals.
Goals from: Grace Dangmei (2), Manisha, Ashalata Devi, Jyoti Chauhan for India; Suha Hirani and Kayla Marie Siddique for Pakistan.
In a thrilling match at the SAFF Women’s Championship 2024, the Indian women's football team triumphed over Pakistan with a commanding 5-2 win, continuing their dominance in the tournament. This victory was even more emphatic than their previous encounter, where India had comfortably won 4-0.
The match wasn’t just another day at the office for the Blue Tigresses—it was a game of monumental personal milestones. Loitongbam Ashalata Devi, India's inspirational captain, celebrated her 100th international appearance, solidifying her legacy as one of the country’s most dedicated players. Alongside her was another proud moment for the team, as Ngangom Bala Devi etched her name in the history books by scoring her 50th international goal, becoming the first Indian woman to reach this incredible milestone.
India’s attack was spearheaded by Grace Dangmei, who netted two goals, alongside strikes from Manisha, Ashalata Devi, and Jyoti Chauhan, giving India a comfortable lead. Although Pakistan tried to claw their way back into the game with goals from Suha Hirani and Kayla Marie Siddique, India’s firepower was too much for them to handle.
While India walked away with the three points, this was not just a group-stage win—it was a celebration of the country's growing influence in women's football. With Bangladesh completing the three-team group, India has firmly positioned itself as a favorite to top the group and progress deeper into the tournament.
India's Next Game - October 23: India vs Bangladesh (5.15 pm IST)