Did Omang Dodum Fulfill His Dream at Home?

Yupia (Arunachal Pradesh), May 11 (NationPress) Local star Omang Dodum found himself at the heart of a historic moment for Arunachal sports. The state hosted its first-ever international football event, with an Indian national team taking the field and a homegrown talent spearheading the attack. Dodum netted India's fifth goal of the evening, marking his inaugural official goal for the nation.

While the 17-year-old had previously scored for India during a friendly match in Europe against a German club, this moment stands out as the pinnacle of his burgeoning career.

"It was a dream to score on my home ground in front of my family. Many of my relatives and friends traveled from all corners of Arunachal just to witness this game," Dodum shared with the AIFF Media team.

His family arrived at the stadium hours before kick-off, eager to support their local hero on the grand stage.

"When I found out the SAFF U19 Championship would take place in Arunachal Pradesh, my first thought was about my family watching me play for the national team. I never imagined this would happen. It's a dream for everyone," said Dodum, hailing from Jollang village.

Dodum's big moment came in the 49th minute when he intercepted a pass just outside the box, skillfully maneuvering the ball through the goalkeeper's legs before celebrating in front of his family.

"The ball came to me perfectly, and I just placed it in. Scoring in such an electrifying atmosphere was incredible. I felt like I had finally reached the moment I had been waiting for as a number nine. I just wanted to embrace my family," he expressed.

"Even though I couldn't score in the first half, I remained confident. Playing in front of my loved ones motivates me to perform. It's not pressure; it's a thrill," he added.

Dodum's father, a former footballer and Secretary of the Arunachal Athletics Association, recognized his talent and enrolled him in the Kolkata Football Academy at age 11, a decision that changed his life.

"My father asked if I wanted to pursue football professionally, and I eagerly agreed. I've been away from home since I was 11," he recalled.

"After a couple of years, I attended trials at the Chandigarh Football Academy and was selected. I also spent time with Sudeva Delhi FC before being picked by Punjab FC for their U15 squad. It's been a remarkable journey, winning the RFDL and being promoted to the first team," he shared.

Dodum played a crucial role in helping Punjab FC clinch the title in the final of the 2024 Reliance Foundation Development League. He also marked his presence for India in the Next Gen Cup in Birmingham, scoring against Aston Villa.

As for his national commitments, Dodum first joined the national camp in 2023 for the tour of Germany and Spain ahead of the AFC U17 Asian Cup in Thailand, where he made two appearances against Vietnam and Uzbekistan. Now, as he transitions to the U19 team, he aims to secure his first silverware for the country in the Land of the Dawn-lit Mountains.

"I want to express my gratitude to the entire Arunachal community for their incredible support. It was heartwarming to see such a large crowd, not just for me but for my teammates as well. They feel at home here. Keep cheering for us throughout the tournament, and we'll strive to score every opportunity we get," Dodum concluded.