In an electrifying day of football at the MSSA inter-school football tournament, several high-stakes matches took place, leaving spectators on the edge of their seats. The tournament, hosted at St. Francis D’Assisi ground in Borivli, saw some of Mumbai’s finest young talents competing for glory in the girls’ U-16 second division clash.
Billabong High School (Mulund) clinched a thrilling victory against Parle Tilak (Vile Parle), securing three crucial points with a narrow 1-0 win. The decisive moment of the match came in the 22nd minute, when Dhyana Hingu, an industrious midfielder known for her flair and stamina, embarked on a scintillating solo run down the right flank. With exquisite footwork and determination, she managed to weave her way past several defenders before slotting the ball into the net, ensuring her team’s hard-fought victory.
The tight contest left little room for either side to create clear-cut chances, with both teams showcasing excellent defensive discipline and tactical awareness. Billabong’s narrow win was a testament to their resilience and ability to capitalize on critical moments, highlighting the competitive nature of the tournament.
Earlier in the day, another nail-biting fixture took place between RN Podar (Santa Cruz) and Ryan International (Sanpada). The opening match saw RN Podar come out on top, courtesy of a second-half resurgence. The solitary goal of the match was netted by RN Podar’s prolific skipper, Sejal Kaushik. Her leadership on the field was impeccable, as she guided her team to a crucial victory. Despite Ryan International’s tenacious efforts, which saw them create several opportunities, they were unable to convert their chances into goals, ultimately succumbing to RN Podar’s solid defense and Sejal’s strike.
However, one of the most talked-about matches of the day involved Pawar Public School (Kandivli). In a dominant display, they outclassed JB Petit (Fort) with a convincing 2-0 win. The Kandivli school’s captain, Nishka Shah, was the star of the match, scoring both goals and demonstrating why she is considered one of the top talents in the tournament.
Nishka Shah’s first goal came from a well-coordinated team move in the early moments of the match.
. The team’s midfield worked seamlessly to maintain possession and stretch the opposition’s defense. Capitalizing on a defensive lapse by JB Petit, Nishka found herself in the perfect position to strike. She received a precise through ball from her teammate and coolly finished past the onrushing goalkeeper, making it 1-0.
Nishka’s second goal was a display of individual brilliance. After receiving the ball near the halfway line, she dribbled past multiple JB Petit defenders with a combination of speed and skill. Her final touch—a powerful shot from the edge of the box—left the goalkeeper with no chance, sealing the victory for Pawar Public School.
The match highlighted Pawar Public School’s tactical prowess and organizational strength, making them one of the tournament favorites. Nishka’s performance was a masterclass in forward play, with her positioning, awareness, and finishing all on full display.
The tournament continues to garner attention with each passing match, providing a platform for young athletes to showcase their skills and passion for football. The enthusiasm and support from peers, coaches, and parents alike underscore the importance of such events in fostering sportsmanship and developing future stars.
Billabong High School’s narrow win, RN Podar’s strategic victory, and Pawar Public School’s dominant performance exemplify the diversity and excitement of the MSSA inter-school football tournament. With each match offering a unique narrative and thrilling moments, this tournament remains a cornerstone of Mumbai’s school sports calendar.
As the tournament progresses, teams will be looking to build on their early performances, iron out any weaknesses, and navigate through the remaining fixtures with the goal of lifting the coveted trophy. The girls’ U-16 second division clash has already provided memorable moments and will undoubtedly deliver many more as the competition heats up.
The intense competition, individual brilliance, and sheer determination on display make it clear that the future of Indian women’s football is bright, with these young stars blazing the trail forward. Fans eagerly await the upcoming matches, hopeful for more thrilling encounters and spectacular goals.
