Double strike from Manisha powers Jharkhand to Subroto Cup U-17 girls' crown

NEW DELHI: Manisha produced the biggest performance of her young career as Jharkhand defeated NCC Aizawl 2-0 to lift the Junior Girls (U-17) title in the 65th Subroto Cup International Football Tournament at the Ambedkar Stadium on Thursday.The forward, wearing jersey No. 12, scored once in each half to settle a fiercely contested final and hand Jharkhand one of the most coveted trophies in Indian school football. Her clinical finishes in the 22nd and 43rd minutes proved enough to separate two evenly matched sides in front of an enthusiastic crowd.The victory capped a memorable campaign for Jharkhand, whose disciplined defending and quick transitions consistently troubled an NCC side that had impressed throughout the tournament. While NCC enjoyed spells of possession, Jharkhand remained composed under pressure and made the most of their chances in the final third.The breakthrough arrived midway through the opening half. After a sustained spell of attacking pressure, Manisha found space inside the box and calmly slotted home to give Jharkhand a deserved lead. The goal injected confidence into the side, with the midfield working tirelessly to deny NCC any rhythm before the interval.NCC responded positively after conceding and attempted to level the contest through attacks from the flanks, but Jharkhand goalkeeper Khushboo Kumari marshaled her defense superbly. Her assured handling and timely interceptions ensured the lead remained intact heading into the break.Jharkhand doubled their advantage just before halftime through the same source. Manisha once again timed her run to perfection and finished with conviction, leaving the goalkeeper with little chance. The second goal shifted the momentum firmly in Jharkhand's favor and gave the eventual champions a comfortable cushion.Despite trailing by two goals, NCC refused to surrender. The runners-up pressed aggressively after the restart and created a handful of promising opportunities, but Jharkhand's backline stood resolute. Khushboo continued to command her penalty area confidently, frustrating every attempt at a comeback as the clock ticked down.When the final whistle blew, jubilant celebrations erupted among the Jharkhand players and coaching staff, who embraced on the pitch after completing a remarkable title-winning run. The triumph also highlighted the growing strength of girls' football in the state, with the team displaying both technical quality and remarkable composure throughout the competition.The final formed the centerpiece of a colorful closing ceremony that celebrated the legacy of the Subroto Cup, now in its 65th edition. The day's festivities began with a spectacular aerial display by the Air Devil Sky Diving Team, followed by an impressive performance from the Air Warrior Drill Team. Students of the Air Force School added a cultural flourish with a vibrant dance presentation before kickoff.The title clash was attended by Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit PVSM AVSM VM VSM, Vice Chief of the Air Staff, who presented the trophies and medals as the chief guest. India women's national team footballer Jyoti Ann Burrett was the guest of honor and congratulated both finalists for showcasing the standard of emerging talent in Indian football.Individual excellence was also recognized during the prize distribution ceremony. Thuamdinpuii of NCC Aizawl was named the best player of the tournament and received a cash award of Rs 50,000 for her outstanding performances. Jharkhand's Khushboo Kumari took home the Best Goalkeeper award, while Beena Kerketta was adjudged the Best Coach after guiding her side to the championship. Mata Rukmanidevi High School of Chhattisgarh won the Best School award, and CISCE was honored with the Fair Play Award, with each recipient receiving Rs 50,000.For Jharkhand, however, the evening belonged to Manisha, whose match-winning brace ensured her team etched its name into Subroto Cup history with a commanding performance on the biggest stage.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.