New Delhi, Oct 15 (NationPress) In a thrilling and intense showdown, Manipur emerged victorious once again, overcoming Bengal with a score of 1–0 to retain their title in the Senior Women’s National Football Championship for the Rajmata Jijabai Trophy 2025–26 on Wednesday, held at the RKM Ashrama ground in Narainpur, Chhattisgarh.

The moment of glory came from Lynda Kom Serto, who found the net during stoppage time in the 93rd minute, shattering Bengal's hopes and securing a historic 23rd title for the Northeastern powerhouse. The first half concluded without any goals.

From the outset, it was evident that this final would be a tightly contested match. Both teams displayed discipline and caution, refusing to grant their opponent any early advantage.

The midfield turned into a battleground, with possession changing hands frequently and neither side able to carve out significant chances in the attacking third. The first notable opportunity for Manipur arose in the 20th minute from a set-piece. Ratanbala Devi took a free-kick, curling it beautifully, but the ball struck the outside of the post. Bengal was fortunate to escape unscathed and responded with an opportunity of their own 15 minutes later.

In the 35th minute, Rimpa Haldar received a perfectly timed pass that split the Manipur defense. With only the goalkeeper to beat, she faltered at the crucial moment. The Manipur goalkeeper advanced to narrow the angle, causing Haldar to miss her shot just wide.

This near miss instilled confidence in Bengal, leading to sharper attacks. Just five minutes later, Mousumi Murmu made a dynamic run down the left side and took a powerful shot, narrowly missing the target. The second half turned into a test of nerves, with neither team willing to make a costly mistake.

Tackles were fierce, pressing was intense, and coaches scrambled to find the right substitutions. However, none succeeded in breaking the deadlock. The match appeared destined for extra time, with both teams locked in a stalemate.

Then, in a moment of brilliance, as fatigue set in and the match seemed to drift towards additional time, Manipur seized their chance. In the 93rd minute, Phanjoubam Nirmala Devi sent a cross from the right. Bengal's defenders briefly lost their focus, allowing Lynda Kom to gain control of the ball. Calm as ever, the forward made a precise right-footed shot past the goalkeeper, igniting jubilation in the Manipur camp.

As the final whistle blew, Bengal players dropped to their knees, devastated by the cruel timing of the goal. Meanwhile, Manipur celebrated yet another achievement in their illustrious history, showcasing their ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most.