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Who Became the First Indian Woman to Score 50 International Goals in 2024 |
Discover who became the first Indian woman to score 50 international goals in 2024 — a historic milestone in Indian football achieved by Ngangom Bala Devi at the SAFF Women’s Championship.
In 2024, Indian football witnessed an unforgettable milestone that etched itself into the history books of sport: the first Indian woman to score 50 international goals. This remarkable feat was achieved by veteran striker Ngangom Bala Devi, a trailblazer in women’s football whose contributions have helped shape the game in India and beyond. Her landmark goal not only celebrated individual excellence but also symbolized the rise of Indian women’s football on the international stage.
Let’s explore how Bala Devi made history in 2024, the context behind her achievement, her journey to this moment, and what it means for the growth of women’s football in India and globally.
An Unforgettable Moment in Indian Football
On 17 October 2024, Indian football star Ngangom Bala Devi scored her 50th international goal during a commanding 5–2 victory against Pakistan at the SAFF Women’s Championship 2024, held in Kathmandu, Nepal. This goal marked her as the first Indian woman footballer to reach this historic milestone, a record that highlights her remarkable consistency and longevity as a striker.
The moment was celebrated not just by Indian fans, but also by supporters in Nepal who gave her a standing ovation as she etched her name into football history.
Who Is Ngangom Bala Devi?
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Bala Devi was born on 2 February 1990 in Manipur, a northeastern Indian state known for its rich footballing culture. From a young age, she displayed an innate passion for the sport, often playing football with boys in her neighborhood before joining organized youth competitions.
Rise Through the Ranks
Her breakthrough came through prolific performances in domestic competitions, eventually catching national selectors’ attention. Over the years, Bala Devi became one of the most feared forwards in the Indian women’s national team, known for her clinical finishing, intelligent movement, and leadership on the field.
The Road to 50 International Goals
World Stage Performances
Scoring consistently at the international level is far from easy. Against a backdrop of tough competition in Asia and beyond, Bala Devi’s ability to find the back of the net time and again showcased her talent and determination.
She reached the 50-goal milestone with a well-executed strike against Pakistan in the 2024 SAFF Women’s Championship, a regional tournament that brings together South Asian national teams.
Her goal came in a match that three-times champions India won convincingly, with Bala Devi also contributing to the team’s overall attacking play beyond just scoring.
Historic Achievement: First Indian Woman to Hit 50 International Goals
With this memorable strike, Bala Devi became the first Indian woman to score 50 goals at the senior international level, a milestone that sets a benchmark for future generations of players. Her achievement came amid the SAFF Women’s Championship campaign, elevating her status as a legend in Indian football.
This record is especially significant given the challenges Indian women’s football has historically faced, including limited resources, competition visibility issues, and the struggle for gender parity in many aspects of sport.
Bala Devi’s Impact on Women’s Football in India
Inspirational Figure
Bala Devi’s journey has been a source of inspiration for young footballers across India. Her dedication to the sport and her ability to perform consistently at the highest level have made her a role model for aspiring players.
Professional Career Overseas
In addition to her exploits with the national team, Bala Devi also made history in club football. In January 2020, she signed with Rangers WFC in Scotland, becoming the first Indian woman to play for a professional European club and later the first to score in a professional European league.
This international experience not only helped hone her skills but also put a spotlight on Indian talent abroad, encouraging clubs and scouts to pay more attention to players from South Asia.
What This Milestone Means for Indian Football
Recognition and Growth
Bala Devi’s 50th goal does more than add a number to the record books — it provides a platform for recognition of Indian women’s football on the global map. It showcases that with the right support and infrastructure, Indian footballers can compete and shine at elite levels.
Boost for Youth Development
Records like this motivate younger players. Whether it’s girls in rural towns or in urban academies, seeing one of their own achieve historic success helps boost participation and confidence in the sport.
Symbol of Progress
Her milestone reflects progress in Indian sports — especially women’s football — suggesting that investment in talent development and broader support ecosystems can yield world-class athletes.
Reactions to the Achievement
The accomplishment was met with celebration and praise from:
- Fans and teammates, who hailed Bala Devi’s consistency and commitment.
- Football administrators, who recognized the importance of such milestones for the sport’s growth.
- Media and commentators, who highlighted her as a symbol of excellence in Indian sport.
Many pointed out that such achievements elevate the visibility of women’s football and encourage broader media coverage and sponsorship interest.
Beyond the Milestone: Bala Devi’s Legacy
Football Ambassador
Bala Devi’s influence extends beyond scoring goals — she embodies resilience, leadership, and the power of sport to transcend barriers. Her legacy is poised to endure as she continues contributing to the game, whether as a player, mentor, or ambassador for Indian football.
Future Prospects
As she continues her journey, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how many more goals she can add to her tally and how her presence will impact upcoming tournaments and qualifiers — both for India and potentially at club level.
FAQs About This Historic Feat
Who became the first Indian woman to score 50 international goals in 2024?
It was Ngangom Bala Devi, who achieved this milestone while playing for India at the 2024 SAFF Women’s Championship.
Where did she score her 50th goal?
She scored her 50th goal in a match against Pakistan in the SAFF Women’s Championship 2024 held in Kathmandu, Nepal.
Why is this milestone significant?
This record highlights Bala Devi’s consistent scoring ability at the international level and marks a historic moment for Indian women’s football.
Has any Indian woman done this before?
No — Bala Devi is the first Indian woman to reach 50 international goals, making her achievement a unique part of Indian sports history.
Final Thoughts: A Moment to Celebrate
Ngangom Bala Devi’s achievement as the first Indian woman to score 50 international goals is a testament to her talent, dedication, and impact on the sport. This milestone not only honors her individual excellence but also shines a spotlight on the potential of Indian women’s football on the global stage.
Celebrate this historic achievement by sharing Bala Devi’s story with fellow sports fans and aspiring athletes — and stay updated on women’s football achievements worldwide.
