When Manisha Kalyan found the back of the net for Alianza Lima, it was far more than a statistic added to a match report. It was not merely a goal scored in a competitive fixture in Peru. It was a moment that traveled thousands of miles across oceans and continents, cutting through time zones and cultural boundaries, landing straight in the hearts of millions in India. For a nation where women’s football has long fought for recognition, visibility, and resources, her strike symbolized something deeper than celebration—it represented validation. It told every young girl juggling a football on dusty grounds in Punjab, Manipur, Kerala, or Maharashtra that their dreams are not confined by geography. They can stretch as far as their belief allows. To understand why that goal resonated so profoundly, one must first understand the journey behind it. Born in a small town in Punjab, Manisha’s early life was not paved with professional academies, international scouting networks, or structured pa...
Positive developments have been seen in Indian football's growth in recent years. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has put in place a number of projects and program s to advance the game's infrastructure throughout the nation. The I-League and Indian Super League (ISL) have grown in popularity and helped Indian professional football develop. The performance of the national team has also improved in various ways. Although it changes over time, India's FIFA ranking reached its highest point in recent years (around the 100th spot). Additionally, the development of a professional women's league (Indian Women's League) and the success of the Indian women's football team are positive steps for the expansion of women's football in the nation. Additionally, the growth of grassroots football, financial support for youth development, and the establishment of football academies have all contributed to the discovery and development of young talent in India. In ...