Women’s football in India needs more matches: Manisha

Our Sports Reporter

GUWAHATI: Indian football star Manisha Kalyan has called for a significant increase in the number of matches played in women’s football across the country, citing it as crucial for raising the overall standard of the game.

Manisha, who made history as the first and only Indian woman to feature in the UEFA Women’s Champions League, was present today at the opening ceremony of the ASMITA U-13 Girls Soccer tournament in Guwahati. She was joined by two rising stars from Assam — Rekha Kataki and Dosomi Rowtia — both are the product of the ASMITA League. Rekha has captained NorthEast United FC in the Indian Women’s League (Division 2), while Dosomi has earned a national camp call-up.

Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the opening ceremony, Manisha shared insights into what Indian women’s football needs to progress.

“The basic difference between us and foreign countries is the number of matches they play throughout the year. Our competitions are limited to just 6–7 months. To take the game to the next level, we need more regular matches,” said Manisha, who famously scored a goal against Brazil in an exhibition match for the Indian national team.

Currently playing for the Greek Football Club PAOK, the 23-year-old praised the ASMITA Football League for creating opportunities for young girls. “Platforms like ASMITA are vital. They offer structured competition and help identify talent at a young age,” she said.

Manisha also expressed admiration for the consistent talent emerging from the Northeast region.

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