Pearl, Valaina keen to march forward after India stint

Panaji: Pearl Fernandes and Valaina Fernandes made heads turn at the recent SAFF U-17 Women’s Championship.
The two young Goan strikers raised expectations when they made it to the India squad, and true to form, delivered. While Pearl grabbed headlines with four goals as India were crowned champions with a game to spare, Valaina proved her striking ability with a goal which had class written all over it.
Coached by Swedish Joakim Aleandersson, the young Goan forwards were instrumental in India’s winning campaign in Bhutan.
“I feel really good and proud about myself for scoring and winning the championship,” Pearl told TOI.
India began their strong run with a 7-0 demolition of Nepal and then secured a 2-0 win against Bangladesh. India later demolished Bhutan 8-0 and thrashed Nepal by five goals to seal the title.
In the final game, a dead rubber, India lost narrowly (3-4) against Bangladesh.
Pearl and Valaina have little time to celebrate as they are now preparing for the AFC U-17 qualifiers to be held in Kyrgyzstan next month.
“I am looking forward to playing my best and scoring more goals in the AFC qualifiers, which can take us to the next round,” said Pearl.
India are clubbed with hosts Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan in group G. Only the eight group winners from a total of 27 teams stand a chance to qualify for the AFC U-17 Asian Cup in China. Powerhouses China, Japan, North Korea and South Korea are already seeded in the main draw.
While it was Pearl’s second experience with the national team, Valaina had a dream debut and will cherish her for a lifetime.
“Last year when I didn’t get selected, I was a bit upset. But I was more determined and confident to make it into the team this time. It was a great experience representing the country for the first time,” said Valaina.
There is no looking back for the two Goan strikers who have already taken the state league by storm in the last two editions and dream of making it to the India senior women's team in the future.
Given their talent, determination, and focus, it might not be too long.