Aspiring Footballers Manisha Naik, Malavika, Priyadharshini Aim for More Representations in the National Women's Team (Blue Tigresses)
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India's Rising Stars Shine in International Friendlies
June 1 - Bengaluru (Karnataka), India - Three stellar youngsters got their first taste of top-tier international football as they donned the Indian jersey to go head-to-head with Uzbekistan: Manisha Naik, Malavika P, and Priyadharshini Selladurai. As reported by AIFF, Manisha and Malavika were part of the starting lineup, while Priyadharshini made her debut in the 74th minute, replacing Dangmei Grace.
For Manisha, her call-up on May 30 was a dream come true. "I was over the moon when I got the call. I couldn't believe it. I was both happy and nervous, wondering how I would perform. But the seniors eased me in and helped me fit right in," she said.
Manisha's rise in Indian football has been nothing short of impressive. With seven goals under her belt for Sports Odisha in the 2022-23 Odisha Women's League and a standout season with Nita FA in the 2024-25 IWL, in which she netted a brace against HOPS FC, Manisha is a force to be reckoned with. Although India didn't take home the victory on her debut, her positive outlook remains undeterred. "We gave it our all, but it wasn't in the cards for us this time. But we'll bounce back stronger. We've learned a lot from Uzbekistan and will use that experience to prep for the next game," she added.
Malavika P hails from Kasargod, Kerala, and is renowned for her blazing pace and inventive creativity on the wing. Her football career has been a steady ascent. Starting at the sub-junior levels, she quickly rose in women's football in her state and was crowned the Best Female Player of 2024 by the Kerala Football Association. After making her mark with Sethu FC, she played a crucial role in the 2024-25 season.
"There were folks in my village who doubted me playing football, but my mother was my rock through it all. She's my strength. So is my coach and family, who've been my backbone. It's all thanks to their support that I'm here today," she shared about the people who stood by her during her football journey.
Reflecting on her international debut, Malavika was overjoyed. "I can't find the words to describe this feeling. It's like a dream come true. We played well, but that's football – anything can happen. What matters now is we stay strong and focus on the next game."
When Priyadharshini Selladurai stepped onto the pitch with the Indian jersey, it was more than a personal milestone – it was a proud moment for her village, family, and every young girl who dares to dream. The 22-year-old midfielder from Savalakaran village in Tiruchirappalli became the first-ever player from her community to represent India at the senior level.
"It's thrilling that my dream is finally a reality. I've been waiting for this chance to wear the India jersey and represent my country," she said. Her football journey began in sixth grade when her school coach, V Muthukumar, encouraged her to pursue the sport despite societal barriers.
A shining success in the 2024 Kerala State League, a Khelo India representative for Tamil Nadu, and a vital player on the runners-up team for Gokulam Kerala in the IWL, Priyadharshini aspires to inspire future generations to follow their dreams. "I'll give it my all and do justice to the Indian jersey. I hope my story can inspire other young girls back home to chase their dreams too." (ANI)
(Disclaimer: The story has been sourced from a syndicated feed and has not been edited by SoulPick team)
The Background
Manisha Naik, Malavika P, and Priyadharshini Selladurai are three promising young talents in Indian women's football. While more specific details about their achievements and background are limited, their call-ups for international games demonstrate their exceptional ability and potential to contribute to India's football future. #RisingStarsIndia #WomenInSports
- "In the world of news, these three rising stars – Manisha Naik, Malavika P, and Priyadharshini Selladurai – have taken the sports realm by storm with their performance in international friendlies."
- "Besides discussions about the latest in national and international politics, the ongoing sports debate has been centered around the exceptional performance of India's football team, specifically mentioning the contributions of Manisha Naik, Malavika P, and Priyadharshini Selladurai in the recent friendly games with Uzbekistan."
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