Did Odisha Women and Kerala Men Dominate Beach Soccer at KIBG 2025?
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Synopsis
In a dramatic turn of events at KIBG 2025, Odisha Women and Kerala Men shine in beach soccer. With thrilling matches held at Diu's Ghoghla Beach, both teams showcased their skills and determination, securing gold medals in their respective categories. Discover the highlights of this unforgettable sporting event!
Key Takeaways
- Odisha Women secured their first gold in beach soccer.
- Kerala Men's team dominated their final match.
- Both matches attracted a passionate crowd at Ghoghla Beach.
- Coaches emphasized teamwork and preparation.
- Significant regional pride was displayed by both winning teams.
Diu, May 24 (NationPress) Odisha Women's team clinched their inaugural gold medal of the competition after a fierce battle against Gujarat, while Kerala Men's team showcased their prowess, overpowering Goa in the beach soccer events of the Khelo India Beach Games (KIBG) 2025.
The matches unfolded at the stunning Ghoghla Beach in Diu, illuminated by lights and witnessed by hundreds of enthusiastic fans, making both men's and women's finals a spectacle to behold.
However, the evening commenced on a contrasting note.
Odisha Women surged ahead with two quick goals against the Gujarat women, who enjoyed the support of the local crowd, many of whom were dancing to Garba and Bollywood tunes alongside the Pearls – dolphins mascots of the Games.
Meanwhile, the men's final between Kerala and Goa was fiercely competitive. Kerala exhibited a slight edge in the initial exchanges, but as the match progressed, they decisively asserted their dominance.
With the first period concluding at 2-1 in favor of Kerala, they accelerated in the subsequent moments, swiftly establishing a stunning 10-3 lead, effectively putting the game out of reach for their Goan opponents.
Kerala ultimately emerged victorious with a 12-4 scoreline, with Muhseer T. and Rohith Yesudas netting four and three goals, respectively.
In the adjacent arena, just as it seemed that Odisha Women were on the verge of a comfortable victory, Gujarat mounted an unexpected comeback.
In the final period, with Gujarat trailing 3-0, Shaikh Naaz invigorated the match by scoring two goals in quick succession, bringing the score to 3-2. Bhumisha Dravid then had a golden opportunity to equalize in the dying moments, but to the dismay of the enthusiastic crowd, she missed.
Ultimately, Odisha held on to their lead, finishing at 3-2, thereby securing the coveted gold medal. The team, under the guidance of coach Gitanjali Khuntia, was assembled just weeks before the event.
Team captain Jasoda Munda, who contributed significantly with two goals, expressed her joy at leading Odisha to their first gold at the 2025 Khelo India Beach Games. “This victory fills us with immense pride. We started strong, but the opponents adapted well. It was a thrilling encounter,” Jasoda shared.
Kerala's coach Aji Raj also praised his team's efforts. “We had just five days of practice leading up to the Beach Games. This squad has been training together since 2021, fostering great team chemistry. They recently triumphed in the National Championship held in Delhi. The boys demonstrated exceptional teamwork,” he stated.
Results:
Men:
Gold: Kerala, Silver: Goa, Bronze: Lakshadweep and Maharashtra
Women:
Gold: Odisha, Silver: Gujarat, Bronze: Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.
Point of View
I emphasize the significance of these achievements in sports, especially for teams like Odisha and Kerala. Their dedication to training and teamwork showcases the spirit of competition while promoting regional pride. The Khelo India Beach Games 2025 highlight the growing interest in beach soccer across the country, fostering unity through sports.
NationPress
01/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the outcome of the KIBG 2025 beach soccer finals?
Odisha Women won the gold medal after defeating Gujarat 3-2, while Kerala Men triumphed over Goa with a score of 12-4.
Who were the standout players in the finals?
Muhseer T. and Rohith Yesudas were pivotal for Kerala, scoring four and three goals, respectively, while Jasoda Munda shone for Odisha with two goals.
Where were the KIBG 2025 beach soccer matches held?
The matches took place at the picturesque Ghoghla Beach in Diu.
How did the teams prepare for the event?
Odisha's team was assembled shortly before the Games, while Kerala had been training together since 2021, showcasing strong team chemistry.
What were the final standings for the beach soccer events?
In men's beach soccer, Kerala took gold, Goa silver, and Lakshadweep and Maharashtra shared bronze. In women's, Odisha secured gold, Gujarat silver, while Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh claimed bronze.
