Manipur to face MP in KIYC U-18 girls' football semifinals
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, February 06 2023:
Manipur ensured their place in the U-18 girls' football semifinals at the 5th Khelo India Youth Games, after beating West Bengal 3 2 on Monday at Mulna Football Stadium, Balaghat, Madhya Pradesh.
Remi Thokchom, Babita Oinam and K Anju Chanu got on the scoresheet to help Manipur emerge Group B winners.
The state squad will square off against hosts Madhya Pradesh in the semifinals on February 8.West Bengal stole a march on Manipur when Mousmi found the back of the net just three minutes into the game.
The state girls bounced back strongly and overturned the deficit as Remi Thokchom evened the score in the 22nd minute via an assist by Bibicha before Babita Oinam capitalised on Romina's pass to put Manipur 2-1 up, heading into the second period.
West Bengal made it all square in the 65th minute through Monalisa.
Then an intense battle ensued that saw a flurry of attacks and counter-attacks that went on for some 23 minutes.
With two minutes remaining before the 90-minute mark, K Anju Chanu rose to the occasion for Manipur as she despatched a sublime shot into the back of the net for the eventual 3-2 result.
Manipur ended their Group B league-round campaign unbeaten, defeating Bihar 7-0 in their first match and then Haryana 4-1 before their 3-2 victory against West Bengal.