Sulanjana Raul’s Hat-Trick Secures Victory for India U-17
India’s U-17 women’s football team celebrated a convincing 3-0 victory over Iran in the AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers, with Sulanjana Raul’s remarkable hat-trick as the highlight of the game.
India’s journey in the tournament had seen them suffer two heavy defeats against teams with higher rankings than the Young Tigresses. However, this match against Iran was a different story, as Sulanjana Raul dominated the field from the beginning.
Raul, in particular, had an outstanding first half and could have secured her hat-trick before the break. Her first opportunity came just a minute into the game when Lalita Boypai set her up with a clear chance on goal. Despite rounding the keeper, Raul’s shot found the side netting.
Throughout the first half, Raul, along with her striking partner Sibani Devi and midfielder Shilji Shaji, showcased their exceptional skills and agility, putting immense pressure on the Iranian defense. However, Fatemeh Salelhi, Iran’s goalkeeper, proved to be a formidable opponent, saving multiple attempts from Raul.
India eventually broke the deadlock in the 36th minute when Heena Khatun delivered a cross from the right, and Sulanjana Raul calmly slotted it in from close range.
Raul doubled her tally and India’s lead just before halftime, capitalizing on a through ball from Shinji to chip the goalkeeper, with the ball hitting the underside of the bar before finding the net.
The second half witnessed a similar narrative, with India maintaining control but struggling to convert opportunities into goals. Sibani, Shilji, and Pooja displayed impressive skills but lacked the finishing touch.
However, Sulanjana Raul completed her hat-trick in the 88th minute, displaying her remarkable abilities once again. Viksit Bara’s chipped pass found her in midfield, surrounded by three Iranian defenders. With a brilliant turn, Raul outmaneuvered her markers and drove into the box. From a tight angle, she struck a powerful low shot to secure India’s first points in the tournament.
Re-reported from the article originally published in Republic TV
