Omang Dodum Shines in Historic SAFF U19 Championship for Arunachal Pradesh

A Historic Moment for Arunachal Football

Yupia (Arunachal Pradesh), May 11: Just half an hour before the match between India and Sri Lanka commenced in the SAFF U19 Championship, the stadium announcer began to introduce the teams. The loudest applause erupted for the Indian number 9, local hero Omang Dodum.

This event marked a significant milestone in Arunachal Pradesh's sports history, being the first international football tournament hosted in the state, featuring the Indian national team, and a local player leading the attack. Dodum netted India's fifth goal of the evening, marking his inaugural official goal for the national team. Although he had previously scored in a friendly match against a German club in 2023, this moment was undoubtedly the highlight of his burgeoning career.

According to a release from the All India Football Federation (AIFF), Dodum expressed, “It was a dream to score on my home ground in front of my family. Many relatives and friends traveled from across Arunachal just for this match,” hailing from Jollang village.

The main stand was filled with supporters, predominantly Dodum's family and friends, who arrived hours before the kickoff.

“When I found out that the SAFF U19 Championship would take place in Arunachal Pradesh, my first thought was that my family would witness me play for the national team. I never anticipated this. It’s a dream for everyone,” he shared.

Dodum's moment of glory came in the 49th minute when he intercepted a pass just outside the penalty area, skillfully maneuvering the ball through the goalkeeper's legs before celebrating with his family in the stands.

“The ball came to me, and I positioned myself to score. I had to get that goal. Scoring in such an electrifying atmosphere was incredible. I felt goosebumps. I thought, ‘finally, this is the moment I’ve been waiting for as a number nine.’ I just wanted to embrace my family,” he recounted.

“Even though I didn’t score in the first half, I remained confident. Playing in front of my loved ones motivates me to perform. I don’t see it as pressure; I thrive on it,” he added.

Dodum, Arunachal Pradesh, and the entire nation owe a debt of gratitude to his father, Kage Dodum, who introduced him to football. With a background in sports, Kage, a former player and Secretary of the Arunachal Athletics Association, enrolled Omang in the Kolkata Football Academy at the age of 11, setting him on a path to success.

“My father asked if I wanted to pursue football professionally, and I eagerly agreed. I joined the Kolkata Football Academy and have been away from home since I was 11,” he explained.

“After a few years, I attended trials at the Chandigarh Football Academy and was selected. I also spent time with Sudeva Delhi FC before being picked by Punjab FC for their U15 team. It’s been an incredible journey at Punjab FC, winning the RFDL, participating in the Next Gen Cup, and advancing to the first team,” he shared.

Dodum played a crucial role in the final of the 2024 Reliance Foundation Development League, helping Punjab FC secure the championship. He also made a name for himself representing India in the Next Gen Cup in Birmingham, scoring against Aston Villa.

In terms of national representation, Dodum first joined the national camp in 2023 for a tour in Germany and Spain, leading up to the AFC U17 Asian Cup in Thailand, where he made two appearances against Vietnam and Uzbekistan. Now part of the U19 squad, he eagerly anticipates winning his first trophy for the country, ideally in his home state.

“I want to express my gratitude to everyone in Arunachal for their support. It was fantastic to see such a large crowd, not just for me but for my teammates as well. They feel at home here, and that makes me happy. Please continue to support us throughout the tournament. Your happiness motivates us, and we’ll strive to capitalize on every opportunity to score,” Dodum concluded.