On March 14, during a thrilling match in Yangon, 14-year-old Joya scored a crucial volley in stoppage time, leading India to a 3-2 victory over Myanmar. This was only her second international match for the Indian U17 women's national team, and she celebrated the moment by calling her biggest supporter—her mother.
Joya's Humble Beginnings in Punjab
Joya's journey began in the small lanes of Phagwara, Punjab, where she first discovered football by watching local boys play. Initially, her mother was concerned, as football was not a common sport for girls at that time. However, her mother's support grew as she recognized Joya's passion for the game. Joya expressed gratitude towards her coaches, Hardeep Singh, who introduced her to football in Phagwara, and Sandeep Singh, who trained her at the Shaheed Bhagat Singh Academy in Hoshiarpur, acknowledging that their guidance was pivotal to her success.
Rising Through the Ranks
Joya's first significant experience in competitive football came in 2024 when she participated in the U15 Khelo India Women's Football League. This tournament marked her entry into competitive matches at a higher level. Her impressive performances led to her selection for the national camp in Bengaluru earlier this year. Training with some of the best young talents under head coach Pamela Conti was a game-changer for her. Joya noted, "It was my first national camp experience, and the training intensity was remarkable. Learning from a coach with World Cup experience and being with players from across the nation provided me with invaluable insights into international football and player preparation."
Her hard work culminated in Yangon, where she was substituted in late during the match. Following the coaching staff's instructions, she seized the opportunity to score the winning goal, making the experience even more memorable.
