HOPS FC Clinch Inaugural AIFF U17 Women's Youth League Title

By: Women Entrepreneurs Review Team | Thursday, 30 July 2026

Delhi-based HOPS FC scripted history by winning the inaugural AIFF U17 Women's Youth League title after defeating Nita Football Academy 4-2 in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw in the final at the RKM Football Academy in Narainpur, Chhattisgarh, on 29 July 2026.

Key Highlights:

• HOPS FC won the inaugural AIFF U17 Women's Youth League title
• Delhi-based side defeated Nita Football Academy 4-2 in a penalty shootout
• Sonia scored in regulation before Ranjita Hembrom sealed the shootout victory

Played in relentless rain, the title clash tested the resilience and determination of both teams, as a waterlogged, slippery pitch made fluid football nearly impossible. The adverse weather forced both sides to rely on aerial balls and first-time clearances instead of their usual passing game, turning the contest into a battle of grit and composure.

Nita Football Academy, one of the tournament's strongest attacking teams, dominated the opening exchanges. Tournament top scorer Deepika Kumari threatened repeatedly in the first half but was unable to convert several promising opportunities. HOPS goalkeeper Sonam delivered an outstanding performance, making crucial saves to deny Deepika, Niruta Baraghare and Khundongbam Ambalika as Nita searched for an early breakthrough.

Despite spending much of the opening half under pressure, HOPS stunned their opponents by taking the lead in the 43rd minute. Sonia produced a remarkable long-range free-kick from around 40 yards that dipped unexpectedly and sailed over Nita goalkeeper Alisha Majhi into the net, giving the Delhi side a valuable advantage.

However, Nita responded immediately before the interval. A foul inside the penalty area resulted in a spot-kick during stoppage time after Sonam brought down Deepika while attempting to collect the ball. Ambalika calmly converted the penalty, registering her fifth goal of the competition to restore parity and send the teams into the break level at 1-1.

The second half remained fiercely contested despite the worsening weather. Heavy rain continued throughout much of the match, making movement increasingly difficult. Nita pressed relentlessly in search of a winner, but Sonam once again proved decisive with a string of important saves to keep HOPS in the contest. At the other end, HOPS defended resolutely and held firm until the final whistle, taking the championship decider to penalties.

Nita made a surprising tactical decision before the shootout by replacing goalkeeper Alisha Majhi with defender Ambalika between the posts. The move nearly paid off as she denied Sakshi's effort, while Deepika also missed her attempt, leaving both sides level after the opening rounds.

HOPS gradually seized control of the shootout through successful penalties from Mansi Sonkar, Sonia and Revika. Sonam then produced another match-winning moment by saving Ritu Badaik's effort, allowing midfielder Ranjita Hembrom to secure the title. She confidently converted the decisive penalty to seal a 4-2 shootout victory and spark celebrations among the HOPS squad.

The triumph marks a significant milestone for HOPS FC, who became the first-ever champions of the AIFF U17 Women's Youth League. Their ability to withstand sustained pressure, adapt to extremely challenging playing conditions, and remain composed in the penalty shootout secured a memorable victory and established the Delhi-based club in the competition's history.