Bala Devi and Shivani Devi guided Manipur to clinch 22nd title

Bala and Shivani's stellar performances epitomized Manipur's dominance, securing yet another title in their illustrious footballing history.

In a riveting showdown at the Indian Senior Women's National Football Championship, Manipur showcased their dominance, securing a resounding 2-0 triumph over Haryana. Bala Devi and Shivani Devi emerged as the heroines for Manipur, their stellar performances paving the path to victory. From the outset, Manipur asserted their authority, with Bala orchestrating attacks and Shivani wreaking havoc on the wings. Despite Haryana's initial pressure, Manipur's defense stood firm, thwarting every advance with precision. In the first half, the game oscillated between both sides, with Manipur gradually seizing control. Bala's incisive passes and Shivani's relentless runs kept Haryana's defense on their toes. Despite several attempts, Manipur couldn't breach Haryana's goal, thwarted by Shreya Hooda's vigilant goalkeeping. The match witnessed moments of tension, with Kritina Devi receiving the first booking of the game in the 30th minute on behalf of Manipur. 
However, the turning point arrived in the 62nd minute when Samiksha's red card reduced Haryana to ten players. Amidst this upheaval, Manipur seized an opportunity as they were awarded a penalty. Bala Devi stepped up confidently, but her effort was thwarted by a brilliant save from Shreya, the steadfast goalkeeper of Haryana. Despite their numerical disadvantage, Haryana displayed commendable spirit, fighting tooth and nail to defy Manipur's relentless attacks. However, Manipur's superior strategy and execution ultimately secured their triumph, leaving Haryana with a bitter yet valiant defeat.

The tournament saw the participation of 32 teams, each showcasing their talent and determination on the field, contributing to the excitement and fervor of the competition


The second half witnessed Manipur's relentless pursuit finally paid off in the 67th minute when Bala Devi expertly found the net, unleashing jubilation among the Manipuri faithful. As the game progressed, Manipur intensified their onslaught, with Shivani wreaking havoc on Haryana's defense. Manipur intensified their onslaught, with Shivani Devi adding to Haryana's woes with a sensational goal in the 82nd minute. Haryana fought valiantly, but Manipur's superior skill and strategy proved insurmountable. Shreya Hooda's goalkeeping prowess kept Haryana in the game despite overwhelming pressure. Despite Shreya Hooda's commendable efforts in goal, Manipur's relentless attacks ultimately sealed Haryana's fate. 
As the final whistle blew, Manipur emerged victorious, their triumph a testament to their unwavering determination and teamwork. Bala and Shivani's stellar performances epitomized Manipur's dominance, securing yet another title in their illustrious footballing history. In the end, Manipur emerged victorious, showcasing their supremacy in Indian women's football once again. With this remarkable win, they advance with confidence in their quest for the Rajmata Jijabai Trophy, leaving a lasting impression on fans and pundits alike. 
In the prize ceremony, distinguished guests including Subrata Dutta, Chairman of IFA, Biswajit Bhaduri, Swarup Biswas, Sourav Pal, Anirban Dutta, Subhashis Sardar, Najrul Islam, Rakesh Jha, and Sufal Ranjan, all Assistant Secretaries of IFA, graced the occasion. Alongside them was Benbem Devi, the revered former Indian footballer and Padmashri awardee. The match officials, led by Ms. Weindy D’Costa as the Match Commissioner and Referee Rupabati, were instrumental in ensuring the game's fairness. Special recognition was accorded to Bala Devi, crowned as the tournament's top scorer and Player of the Tournament, with Shreya Hooda acclaimed as the Best Goalkeeper. Additionally, the fair play award was bestowed upon the Jharkhand team, while Haryana claimed the runner-up silver medal and Manipur clinched the champion's golden medal, marking the culmination of a memorable event. 

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