Footballer NgangomBala Devi becomes First Indian Woman with 50International Goals

By: WE Staff | Monday, 21 October 2024

Bala Devi has become the first Indian female footballer to score 50 International goals, marking her name in history and etching a significant milestone for Indian football. Playing as a forward for Manipur Police and the Indian national team, Devi achieved this feat during the 2024 SAFF Women’s Championship with a goal against Pakistan.

Born on 2nd February 1990 in the state of Manipur, Bala Devi has charted a voyage of sweat and hard work through football. "Initially, she played in the youth tournaments of the state and the national attention was sought after by her performances that took her overseas destination first, entering Maldives, playing for New Radiant WSC in 2014 which would later open doors for further opportunities overseas.” She joined Rangers in Scotland and again set a record, becoming the first Indian woman to score in a European professional league. In 2013, she moved to Spanish club Malaga and returned to India to play for Odisha WFC, enriching her club career further.

Bala Devi started playing key roles for India's national team since the year 2005. She had participated in several international competitions on behalf of her country, like the SAFF Women's Championship and Asian Games. In the 2014 SAFF Championship, she scored 16 goals and received widespread recognition in addition to the AIFF Women's Player of the Year award. Over the years, Devi has consistently proven her skill and dedication on the international stage, inspiring the next generation of female athletes in India.

In addition to her football career, Bala Devi is also a police inspector in Manipur and looks after her community with commitment from the sport.