Meghalaya advances to junior girls' football semi-finals

Meghalaya secured a place in the semi-finals of the Dr Talimeren Ao National Football Championship for Junior Girls (Tier 2) 2026-27 after a 2-1 victory over Punjab in Narainpur, Chhattisgarh.

Punjab took an early lead in the 10th minute through a free-kick by Japleen Kaur. Meghalaya equalized in the 61st minute when Ripaia Phawa scored from a rebound following a Peacefully Pohplet free-kick. In stoppage time, Peacefully Pohplet scored the winning goal with a direct free-kick from distance.

With this win, Meghalaya has earned six points from two matches, following a previous 8-0 victory against Jammu and Kashmir. Due to Nagaland's withdrawal, Group C has been reduced to three teams. Meghalaya has qualified directly for the semi-finals and will face the winner of Group A on September 25.