'Rockets are there, we need more launchpads': Anand Mahindra on Manisha Kalyan’s viral free kick at the AFC Women's Asian Cup against Chinese Taipei

India’s Women’s Asian Cup campaign may have ended without a point, but one moment of brilliance ensured fans had something to celebrate. Manisha Kalyan's one moment of brilliance left fans buzzing across social media. India’s dynamic winger delivered a thunderous 30-yard free kick that rattled the crossbar and found the back of the net, offering a rare glimpse of individual magic. While the Indian team’s overall performance fell short against Chinese Taipei, Kalyan’s strike showcased raw talent, hinting at the untapped potential waiting to shine on bigger stages.

Anand Mahindra highlighted the significance of Kalyan’s strike, calling it a "rocket-like free kick", noting that it proved Indian footballers possess untapped talent capable of competing at the highest level. The challenge now lies in spotting such talent early and nurturing it with proper infrastructure and support, transforming individual sparks into a sustainable ecosystem for women’s football in India.

Internet reacts

Fans were left in awe of Manisha Kalyan’s free kick, calling it an absolute rocket and praising her as a world-class talent. Many highlighted that moments like this challenge the notion of India being a “one-sport nation” and emphasised the need to invest in emerging stars. Observers noted the sheer power, precision, and fearlessness in her strike, suggesting that with proper coaching and infrastructure at grassroots levels, Kalyan’s goal could represent just the beginning of a larger talent pipeline. The stunning video of the ball hitting the crossbar, crossing the goal line, and bouncing out delighted viewers, leaving a lasting impression on football fans across the country.

Who is Manisha Kalyan?

Manisha Kalyan, born in Muggowal, in the Horshiarpur district of Punjab, has steadily carved her name in Indian football. Playing as a forward for Alianza Lima in the Primera División Femenina and representing the India women’s national team, she has accumulated several accolades, including the AIFF Women’s Emerging Footballer of the Year (2020–21) and the AIFF Women’s Player of the Year (2022–23). She also made history as the first Indian footballer to appear in the UEFA Women’s Champions League, further solidifying her reputation as a rising star on the international stage.

India's performance against Chinese Taipei

India’s journey in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup, however, proved a harsh reminder of the gap between potential and execution. After dominating large swaths of play, the team faltered in the final third, failing to convert opportunities into goals. Their campaign ended with a 3-1 defeat to Chinese Taipei in Sydney. In the clash against Chinese Taipei, Kalyan’s long-range free kick brought India level in the 39th minute, briefly energising the team and fans alike. Despite the early hope, Taiwan regained the lead just before halftime through a fortunate penalty.