NSG U-19 football: Manipur reach semis
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, April 19 2025:
Manipur held their nerve to clinch a dramatic 1-1 (5-4) penalty shootout victory over Kerala, booking their place in the semifinals of the 68th National School Games U-19 Girls Football Tournament 2025 at the Khuman Lampak Main Stadium on Saturday.
Kerala looked set for a narrow win after taking the lead deep into stoppage time, but Manipur struck back in the dying seconds to force penalties.
Shilji Shajit broke the deadlock for Kerala in the 38th minute, and as the match entered its final moments, it seemed her goal would be enough.
However, Th Sanjita delivered a stunning equaliser for Manipur in the 95th minute, sending the game to a shootout.
In the tense penalty showdown, N Olivia, A Luxmi, Tabitha, Sagarika and Lamnganbi all held their composure to convert their spot-kicks, sealing a hard-fought 5-4 victory for Manipur against their dogged opponents.