India Clinch Runners-Up Position in Turkish Women’s Cup 2024 After Kosovo’s Late Winner

28 Febuary 2024: In a heart-wrenching finale, the Indian women’s football team narrowly missed claiming their first-ever senior title outside the SAFF region, finishing as runners-up in the Turkish Women’s Cup 2024 football tournament. The match against Kosovo at the Gold City Sports Complex in Alanya, Turkey, ended with a 1-0 defeat for India, marked by Ereleta Memeti’s injury-time goal.

With aspirations of securing victory to clinch the coveted title, the Indian team displayed commendable determination throughout the game. Despite their efforts, Kosovo’s Ereleta Memeti shattered India’s hopes with a late goal, clinching the win for her team.

Kosovo emerged triumphant in the four-national invitational football tournament, securing three victories and accumulating nine points. In contrast, India’s impressive performance throughout the tournament earned them the runners-up position, garnering six points. This achievement marks India’s best performance in three appearances at the prestigious competition.

Throughout the match, India, ranked 65th globally, showcased defensive resilience and strategic gameplay against Kosovo, positioned at 100th in global rankings. Despite maintaining their shape and containing Kosovo’s attacks early in the game, India faced challenges in converting scoring opportunities.

Notably, Indian winger Soumya Guguloth and forward Manisha created several scoring chances in the first half, but failed to find the back of the net. Manisha’s free-kick and subsequent attempts on goal were thwarted by Kosovo’s vigilant defense, denying India the crucial lead before halftime.

In the second half, Kosovo intensified their offensive efforts, testing India’s defensive resolve. Despite goalkeeper Panthoi Chanu’s valiant saves, Kosovo capitalized on an injury-time opportunity, securing the decisive goal that led to India’s defeat.

While India’s quest for victory in the Turkish Women’s Cup fell short, their spirited performance and commendable display of skill have earned them admiration and recognition on the international stage. As they reflect on their journey, the Indian women’s football team remains poised for future challenges and opportunities for triumph on the global football arena.