Manisha Kalyan's Free Kick Highlights Indian Women's Football; Ishika Debuts in Hockey Squad

Manisha Kalyan, a forward from Punjab, gained attention for scoring a powerful 30-yard free kick goal during the 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup, despite India finishing last in their group. She plays for Alianza Lima in Peru and has earned multiple national awards. Her journey from a village barefoot player to an international footballer highlights challenges in Indian women's football. Separately, Ishika, an 18-year-old hockey forward from Haryana's boxing region, debuted for India at the FIH Hockey World Cup Qualifiers, reflecting ongoing youth integration in Indian women's sports.