Meghalaya defeated Punjab 2-1 in a dramatic Group C match of the Dr Talimeren Ao National Football Championship for Junior Girls (Tier 2) 2026-27 in Narainpur, Chhattisgarh, on September 20. Punjab took an early lead through Japleen Kaur in the 10th minute. However, Meghalaya fought back and equalised through Ripaia Phawa in the 61st minute.
Then, in stoppage time, Peacefully Pohplet scored from a long-range free-kick to complete Meghalaya’s comeback. The victory gave Meghalaya six points from two matches and secured their place at the top of Group C.
Read More: Imphal West Arms Cache Recovered
Key Facts
- Tournament: Dr Talimeren Ao National Football Championship for Junior Girls (Tier 2) 2026-27
- Match: Meghalaya vs Punjab
- Result: Meghalaya 2-1 Punjab
- Venue: Narainpur, Chhattisgarh
- Date: September 20
- Meghalaya points: 6 from 2 matches
- Group: Group C
- Semi-final: September 25
- Previous result: Meghalaya defeated Jammu and Kashmir 8-0
Punjab Take Early Lead
Punjab started strongly and opened the scoring in the 10th minute. Japleen Kaur stepped up for a free-kick and caught Meghalaya goalkeeper Dawansaphi Snaitang off guard.
The early goal gave Punjab an advantage. However, Meghalaya continued to push forward and looked for opportunities to level the match.
Meghalaya Equalise in Second Half
Meghalaya finally found the equaliser in the 61st minute. Peacefully Pohplet took a free-kick, but Punjab goalkeeper Suhana blocked the initial effort.
However, Ripaia Phawa reacted quickly to the rebound. She fired the loose ball into the net and brought Meghalaya level at 1-1.
The equaliser changed the momentum of the match. Both teams continued to compete for the decisive goal as the game moved toward full time.
Peacefully Scores Dramatic Winner
Meghalaya eventually completed the comeback in stoppage time. Peacefully Pohplet won another opportunity from a free-kick in the 93rd minute.
She struck the ball from distance. Suhana managed to get a hand to the shot, but the goalkeeper could not prevent the ball from crossing the line.
The late goal gave Meghalaya a 2-1 victory and three important points.
Meghalaya Secure Semi-Final Spot
The result takes Meghalaya to six points from two matches. They had already started their campaign with an impressive 8-0 victory over Jammu and Kashmir.
Moreover, Nagaland’s withdrawal from Group C means Meghalaya have already secured a semi-final place. They therefore do not need to wait for Punjab’s final group match against Jammu and Kashmir on September 22.
Meghalaya will now face the winner of Group A in the semi-final on September 25.
What Was the Result Between Meghalaya and Punjab?
Meghalaya defeated Punjab 2-1 in the Group C match.
Who Scored for Meghalaya?
Ripaia Phawa scored Meghalaya’s first goal, while Peacefully Pohplet scored the decisive winner in the 93rd minute.
Who Scored for Punjab?
Japleen Kaur scored Punjab’s only goal in the 10th minute from a free-kick.
Has Meghalaya Reached the Semi-Finals?
Yes. Meghalaya have secured a semi-final place after collecting six points from two matches and benefiting from Nagaland’s withdrawal from the group.
When Is the Semi-Final?
Meghalaya will play the winner of Group A in the semi-final on September 25.
Location Context
Meghalaya is one of Northeast India’s prominent football regions, with the sport enjoying strong participation among young players. The team’s progress in the national junior championship highlights the growing presence of Northeast football in national competitions.