Jharkhand Triumphs in Sub Junior Girls' National Football Championship 2025-26

Jharkhand Claims Championship Title

New Delhi [India], August 31: Jharkhand emerged victorious in the Sub Junior Girls' National Football Championship 2025-26 Tier 1, defeating Manipur 3-2 in an exhilarating final held at Jorhat Stadium in Assam, according to the All India Football Federation (AIFF).

The match began with a tense first half, but Jharkhand managed to score just before the break in the 45th minute, thanks to an own goal by Waikhom Lanthoi Chanu.

After the halftime interval, Anamika Kumari extended Jharkhand's lead to 2-0 by converting a well-placed cross.

In the 56th minute, Lanthoi redeemed herself with a stunning long-range shot from near the halfway line, giving Manipur a glimmer of hope.

However, Jharkhand quickly responded just three minutes later. Nensi Munda was fouled in a dangerous area, and she took the free kick herself, curling it past the goalkeeper to make it 3-1.

Manipur fought back and scored again in the 84th minute, narrowing the score to 3-2. They nearly equalized during added time from a free kick, but Jharkhand's goalkeeper Palak Mahto made a crucial save to secure the win. This victory marked Jharkhand's third title in the Sub-Junior Girls' National Championship.

Earlier, the Indian women's U17 team showcased their dominance in South Asia with a resounding 5-0 win over Nepal at the Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu, clinching the SAFF U17 Women’s Championship 2025 title. The Young Tigresses led 3-0 at halftime.

This victory brought India to 15 points from five matches, securing an unassailable lead at the top of the table. Bangladesh's earlier draw against Bhutan (1-1) ensured India's title win.

Pearl Fernandes scored two goals (15', 43'), while Divyani Linda also netted a brace (79', 90+2'). Nira Chanu Longjam contributed with another goal (5').