Shillong, October 24 : Meghalaya’s standout for international football continued tonight as the football loving State once again demonstrated its capacity as a world-class host, while IR Iran secured a dominant 3-0 victory over Nepal in the second thrilling encounter of the Women’s Tri-Nation International Tournament at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Shillong.
D.D. Shira, MCS, Director, Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, P.B. War Nongbri, Assistant Director, Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, Hamletson Dohling, President of Meghalaya Football Association and Cliff Nongrum, Vice President, Meghalaya Football Association presented the illustrious trophy to the team of IR IRAN, for their remarkable campaign throughout the tournament.
These high-profile events are a testament of the State’s robust, pre-existing and ever evolving football ecosystem. It stands to reason that, hosting tournaments of such calibre, provides a tangible goal for the young players from Meghalaya and provides the opportunity to connect grassroots to the global stage of competitions.
Shillong has previously hosted the Indian men’s national team for their FIFA international friendly against Maldives in March and a crucial AFC Asian Cup, 2027 qualifier against Bangladesh. The momentum has continued with the string of such international fixtures, with the State now successfully hosting the Women’s Tri-Nation tournament.
Match Report: The opening half was a high-octane affair. Iran carried the momentum from their previous match, displayed dominance and controlled possession, pressing the Nepali defense. Both teams showed glimpses of quality with neat touches and build-up play, actively seeking the breakthrough. Iran created several chances, with Afsaneh Chatrenoor coming close with an effort aimed towards the back post around the 16th minute, narrowly missing the target. Nepal, led by captain Sabitra Bhandari, also managed to carve out a few chances but despite valiant efforts from both sides, the first half concluded without either team managing to break the deadlock. Iran stamped their authority right from the beginning of the second half, with Sara Didar opening the scoreline in the 49th minute. Iran doubled their lead again in the 52nd minute with Zahra Ghanbari’s wonderful set-piece. However, it was Shabnam Behesht’s brilliant left footer, that stole the show, making Iran win the contest 3-o against Nepal. With maximum number of points accumulated, IR Iran claimed the Tri-Nation Women’s Tournament in Shillong.
The tournament now heads towards October 27, where the hosts India take on Nepal in the final match.
