Indian Footballer Manisha Kalyan Makes History in UWCL
Manisha Kalyan, a rising star of the Indian Women’s Football Team, etched her name in history as the first Indian to score in the UEFA Women’s Champions League. This historic moment unfolded during a match against WFC Samegrelo, where Apollon Ladies FC triumphed 2-0, with Kalyan’s remarkable 71st-minute goal stealing the spotlight. Her achievement not only highlights her dedication and talent but also symbolizes the promising future of women’s football in India.
Kalyan’s journey to this milestone was marked by significant accolades. She was honored as the AIFF Women’s Emerging Footballer of the Year for the 2020-21 season, and in 2022-23, she clinched the title of AIFF Women’s Player of the Year, showcasing her extraordinary progress. Her impact was further evident when she secured a pivotal contract with Apollon, a prominent team in the Cypriot First Division, in 2022, signaling a bright future in her budding career.
Although Kalyan initially started the match against their Georgian opponents on the bench, her second-half entry in the 55th minute hinted at her scoring potential. This potential culminated in the 71st minute when she skillfully found the back of the net, capitalizing on a moment when the opposing goalkeeper, Andrea Fernandes, shifted position.
Kalyan’s prowess continued to shine in recent games, with three assists in Apollon’s UWCL Qualifiers win over ZFK Ljuboten, resulting in a resounding 9-0 victory. Apollon’s subsequent 3-0 win secured their spot in the second round of the UEFA Women’s Champions League, where they aim to join renowned teams like Barcelona, Lyon, Bayern Munich, and Chelsea in the group stage. Manisha Kalyan’s remarkable achievements are not only a source of pride for India but also a testament to her growing influence in international women’s football.
Re-reported from the article originally published in The Inside Sports
