Shot-stopper Panthoi Chanu eager to prove her worth during Australian stint Premium
The Hindu
Indian goalkeeper Panthoi Chanu makes history by playing professionally in Australia, aiming to excel in the global football arena.
Goalkeeper Elangbam Panthoi Chanu, a member of the Indian team, is excited to become the first footballer from the country to play professionally in Australia.
Panthoi, who has been signed by Adelaide-based Metro United, looks forward to prove her worth and learn during her stint in Australia, where she will play in the South Australian Women’s National Premier League.
The 28-year-old gritty goalkeeper, who has been mentored by the legendary Bala Devi, is open to embrace the new challenge. “I don’t know much about their playing style, which is different from ours. I will try to adapt and play well. I will have six months, which is a long time and we don’t get to play that long in India. I will try to gain from that experience. I have to show that I am good,” said Panthoi, before leaving for Australia.
Panthoi, backed by Women in Sports, caught the eye of Adelaide United FC during a trial, attended by head coaches from prominent teams such as Western United FC Melbourne, Perth SC, WFC Dinamo Zagreb, and Marbella FC. Following their recommendation, Panthoi found her way to Metro United WFC. This significant move not only serves as a boost to her confidence but also provides a platform for her to excel and gain valuable experience in the global football arena.
Metro United head coach Paul Morris explained the role of the Indian recruit. “Panthoi will come in as our first choice goalkeeper. She will train with the first team. We will use her experience and knowledge. We have a young 18-year-old goalkeeper who is our reserve goalkeeper. How it works in Australia is we have a fully professional league, which is the Women’s A-League, in which Adelaide United participates in. We play one level down, which is the Women’s National Premier League (WNPL). We have 10 teams.
“We are delighted to have signed Panthoi for the 2024 WNPL season here at Adelaide. She is a top class goalkeeper with international experience, she possesses all the qualities you look for in a goalkeeper and will be a great addition to our squad, everyone associated with Metro United is looking forward to welcoming Panthoi,” said Morris.
“Panthoi will train with Adelaide United with full-time professionals, full-time coaches. It will be a great opportunity and experience for her to train alongside them, to work with a full time professional club.”
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