Meghalaya produced a spirited comeback to defeat Punjab 2-1 and book their place in the semifinals of the Dr Talimeren Ao National Football Championship for Junior Girls (Tier 2) 2026-27 in Narainpur, Chhattisgarh.
Meghalaya fell behind in the 10th minute when Japleen Kaur put Punjab ahead with a free-kick that sailed over goalkeeper Dawansaphi Snaitang.
Punjab protected their advantage for more than 50 minutes before Meghalaya finally broke through. Peacefully Pohplet’s curling free-kick was initially stopped by the Punjab goalkeeper, but Ripaia Phawa reacted strongly to the loose ball and fired home the equaliser in the 61st minute.
With the match seemingly heading for a draw, Meghalaya produced a dramatic winner in stoppage time. Peacefully stepped up for a long-range direct free-kick and struck a powerful effort that goalkeeper Suhana managed to get her gloves to but could not prevent from crossing the line.
The late goal sealed a 2-1 victory and confirmed Meghalaya’s place at the top of Group C with a perfect six points from two matches. Meghalaya had opened their campaign with an emphatic 8-0 victory over Jammu and Kashmir.
With Nagaland withdrawing from Group C, Meghalaya’s two victories are enough to secure first place without having to wait for the Punjab-Jammu and Kashmir result.
