Soccer: Odisha girls humble Rajasthan with Kamini's hat-trick

Cuttack, Sep 12: It was a day of contrasting fate for Odisha girls and boys in the Sub-Junior National Football Championship 2024-25. 

While the boys went down to Delhi 2-7, Odisha girls humbled Rajasthan 5-2 to clinch a memorable win at Dr Rajendra Prasad Stadium in Margao (Goa).

Kamini Mallik, who scored a hat-trick was the dazzling star for victorious Odisha in Sub-Junior  National Football Championship 2024-25 on Wednesday, informed Football Association of Odisha (FAO) sources.

The first half was equally balanced as both sides played with lots of energy, coordination and created more scoring opportunities for their forwards.

However, it was Odisha, who took the early lead in the 11th minute as Kamini Mallik drew first blood. Seasoned campaigner Ritu Badaik soon joined the party with a goal against her name in the 22nd minute.

With two successive goals to their advantage, as Odisha apparently tried to slow down proceedings, Rajasthan regrouped and scored two quick goals to bring the match to 2-2 level.

The goal scorers for Rajasthan were Krishna Jat (37th minute) and Dipika (39th minute). 

Odisha's joy almost turned into utter disbelief as their opponents shared equal honours at end of first half. The match was evenly poised with both teams scoring a couple of goals.

However, Odisha returned with more determination and executed their plans successfully in the second half. They scored three more goals and eventually had the last laugh on the day with a 5-2 victory.

Kamini Mallik completed her hat-trick with goals in the 48th and 73rd minutes. Towards the end, Khundongbam Ambalika celebrated with a goal. The victory is likely to motivate Odisha girls to do well in the championship.