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The Maharashtra State (WIFA) Inter-District Sub-Junior Girls Championship concluded with a captivating final, where Mumbai emerged victorious against Pune in a dramatic penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw in regulation time.
The match was a testament to the immense talent and unwavering spirit of young female footballers in the state, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats until the very last kick.
The final was a fiercely contested affair from start to finish. Mumbai took the lead early through Sanvi Chaubey, showcasing her keen eye for goal. However, Pune’s Thea Fernandes swiftly responded, finding the equalizer just before halftime, setting the stage for an even second half. The tension escalated in the dying minutes when Pune’s Aditri Rajput seemingly netted a late winner with two minutes to spare. Yet, Mumbai displayed incredible resilience, as Sanvi found the net again at the stroke of full time, forcing the game into a penalty shootout. In the shootout, Mumbai’s Prisha and Sanvi successfully converted their spot kicks, while goalkeeper Vaishnavi Chettiar stood tall, ensuring Mumbai’s goal remained unbreached, sealing the championship. Earlier in the day, Palghar secured the third position by defeating Nagpur with a 3-1 scoreline.
The tournament also shone a spotlight on exceptional individual performances. Mumbai’s Vaishnavi Chettiar was deservedly awarded the Best Goalkeeper for her outstanding saves and leadership between the posts throughout the championship. The prestigious Player of the Tournament accolade went to Mumbai’s dynamic Sanvi Chaubey, recognized for her exceptional skill, vision, and significant impact on her team’s victorious campaign. WIFA extends its heartfelt congratulations to all participating teams and individual awardees for a memorable and inspiring tournament.
