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Maharashtra’s women’s football team is all geared up to kick off their final round campaign in the highly anticipated Hero 27th Senior Women’s National Football Championship, commencing on June 14.
After an impressive performance in the group stage held in April, where they topped their group with four wins and a draw, Maharashtra enters the final round in excellent form and are determined to make their mark on the national stage.
Placed in the challenging Group B, Maharashtra faces formidable opponents, including the 21-time championship winners Manipur, known as one of the best teams in the history of the competition. West Bengal, a two-time champion and 13-time runner-up, also poses a tough challenge. Joining them in the group are Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, and Railways creating a highly competitive environment for Maharashtra’s team.
The Western India Football Association (WIFA) proudly announced the squad representing Maharashtra in the tournament. Led by an exceptional coaching staff, the team comprises talented individuals who have shown immense dedication and commitment to the sport.
Goalkeepers
Payal Basude
Anjali Barke
Defenders
Afreen Peerbhoy
Sapna Rajpure
Aditi Gadekar
Nidhi Shetty
Aishwarya Bhonde
Pranita Nimkar
Sanika Patil
Midfielders
Karen Pais
Tanvi Patil
Harshika Jain
Arya More
Shreya Bhatt
Ritika Singh
Poornima Ghelot
Urvi Salunke
Janhavi Shetty
Forwards
Priya Rathod
Archana Bhaladhare
Trupti Deep
Bhumika Mane
Staff:
Sanaya Anklesaria: Head Coach
Asha Naidu: Asst Coach/Manager
Bhagyashree Karkera: Physio
Speaking about the team’s preparation, Maharashtra player Karen Pais expressed confidence and enthusiasm, stating, “We have been working really hard for the last two weeks in preparation for the Senior Nationals. We have a very young squad with limited experience, but each player comes in with a learning attitude. We are well aware of the challenges in our group, but we are determined to give our best and make Maharashtra proud.”
The fixtures for Maharashtra in the final round are as follows:
- June 15, 7:30 AM: Maharashtra vs Manipur
- June 17, 4:00 PM: Maharashtra vs Haryana
- June 19, 7:30 AM: West Bengal vs Maharashtra
- June 21, 4:00 PM: Himachal Pradesh vs Maharashtra
- June 23, Time to be Determined: Maharashtra vs Railways
WIFA encourages football enthusiasts and fans to support Maharashtra’s women’s team as they compete against the nation’s best in the Hero 27th Senior Women’s National Football Championship. Follow the team’s journey and stay updated with the latest match results on WIFA’s official channels.
