By Our Reporter
Shillong, Oct 31, 2023: In a thrilling clash at the 37th National Games, Meghalaya’s men’s football team commenced their campaign on a disappointing note, falling short against Manipur with a final score of 2-1 in a match held at Fatorda, Goa on Tuesday.
The encounter witnessed Meghalaya creating numerous scoring opportunities and receiving some as well, but they struggled to convert those chances in the sweltering conditions. Meghalaya managed to find the net only after conceding two goals.
The initial half of the match remained goalless, with both sides fiercely competing for control. However, Manipur seized the lead in the second half through a spectacular direct free-kick that rebounded off the woodwork before hitting the back of the net. The incredible strike came courtesy of Thiyam Chingkeinganba.
Meghalaya’s fightback was severely hindered when they were reduced to ten players following Fullmoon Mukhim’s red card. Mukhim’s expulsion came as a result of a studs-up challenge, marking his second offense in the game.
In the 83rd minute, Manipur extended their lead when Phijam Meetei received a well-placed short cross, took his time to settle, and delivered a precise shot that penetrated the defense and goalkeeper to make it 2-0.
As time dwindled, Meghalaya managed to pull one back when Donlad Diengdoh chased down a through ball on the right flank.
The Manipur goalkeeper rushed out to challenge him but collided with a defender. Diengdoh seized the opportunity, moving past the opposition duo and fired a powerful left-footer into the net.
Despite their valiant efforts and quick response, the 10-man Meghalaya squad ran out of time to find the equalizer and succumbed to their North East rivals.
Meghalaya’s next challenge will be against Maharashtra on November 2, and they will also face Kerala, the other team in their group, on November 4 in what promises to be an exciting continuation of the 37th National Games.
Meghalaya, despite the initial setback, remains determined to bounce back in their upcoming matches. Coach Rajesh Singh expressed his confidence in the team’s abilities, stating that they would learn from the experience and come back stronger in the tournament.
The upcoming clashes with Maharashtra and Kerala hold immense significance for Meghalaya’s hopes of progressing in the competition. The team’s supporters are eagerly anticipating these encounters, hoping for a resurgence in form and a chance to make their presence felt on the national stage.
As the 37th National Games continue to unfold, football enthusiasts across the nation eagerly await the next chapter of this exciting competition, where every match brings new stories and heroes to the forefront.
The 37th National Games have already proven to be a spectacle of talent and fierce competition. With teams from all corners of India converging to showcase their prowess, the spirit of sportsmanship and unity prevails.
The defeat to Manipur has only fueled the fire in Meghalaya’s team, and they are determined to harness this experience to propel themselves to greater heights in the competition.
As the tournament progresses, fans and experts alike will be closely watching Meghalaya’s journey and whether they can mount a comeback to secure a coveted victory in the upcoming matches.
The 37th National Games promise to be an unforgettable chapter in India’s sporting history, with thrilling moments and exceptional performances yet to unfold. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting event.
The Games are being held in five Goan cities: Mapusa, Margao, Panjim, Ponda, and Vasco. It is the first time that Goa is hosting the National Games.
A total of 36 sports are being contested at the Games, including athletics, badminton, boxing, cycling, football, gymnastics, hockey, judo, kabaddi, kho-kho, lawn tennis, rowing, shooting, swimming, table tennis, volleyball, and wrestling.
The Games are being seen as a major opportunity for Goa to showcase its sporting infrastructure and tourism potential. The state government has invested heavily in the preparations for the Games, and has built new stadiums and other facilities.