KITG 2026: From Midfield Command to Goalkeeping Brilliance

Raipur, March 2026 : Inspired by the outstanding dual role of captain Kiran Pisda, Chhattisgarh’s women’s football team has secured a place in the final of the first edition of the Khelo India Tribal Games, while the state’s women’s hockey team has also kept its hopes alive by reaching the bronze medal match.

Indian international player Kiran delivered a stellar performance in the semifinal against Arunachal Pradesh at the Swami Vivekananda Kota Stadium on Tuesday and emerged as the star of the match. Riding on her all-round display, Chhattisgarh registered a thrilling 4-3 victory in the penalty shootout after the match ended 2-2 in regulation time.

Kiran, who has already scored around 20 goals in the tournament, once again played an attacking role and gave the host team a 2-0 lead with a goal in the 18th minute.

However, Arunachal Pradesh struck back with goals in the 41st and 86th minutes to level the score at 2-2 and push the match into a shootout. At this point, Kiran made a bold decision by replacing regular goalkeeper Yogita and donning the gloves herself. Her decision proved to be a captain’s masterstroke as she made two brilliant saves and also successfully converted one penalty, helping her team book a place in the final. The hosts erupted in celebration as the final penalty sealed their victory.

Speaking about her performance, Kiran told SAI Media, “I wanted to take my team to the final at any cost. I was confident of doing well as a goalkeeper. I have played this role earlier for my state team. My hard work has paid off and we are in the final. This is a moment of pride for all of us.”

In the final, Chhattisgarh will face the winner of the second semifinal between Jharkhand and Gujarat. Notably, the hosts had already defeated Gujarat 2-1 in the group stage, with Kiran scoring one goal in that match.

Meanwhile, in the competition underway at the International Hockey Stadium, Chhattisgarh’s women’s hockey team will face neighbouring Madhya Pradesh in the bronze medal match on April 1. The hosts had suffered a 1-5 defeat against Odisha in the semifinal but are now ready to fight for a medal under the guidance of captain Kujur Ashwin. The hockey final will also be played on April 1 between Jharkhand and Odisha.