Divided by Violence, United by the Game: Manipur’s Shared Spark in India’s AFC U-17 Qualification

India sealed a 2–1 win over Iran on Saturday to qualify for the AFC U-17 Asian Cup, with two teenagers from Manipur’s divided communities scoring the goals that decided the match.

Iran struck first at the EKA Arena, but India drew level just before the interval through a penalty converted by Dallalmuon Gangte. In the second half, Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam finished a move in the box to put India ahead, a lead the team held comfortably. Gangte is Kuki; Wangkheirakpam is Meitei.

The All India Football Federation’s final squad lists nine players from Manipur — seven Meiteis and two Kukis — continuing the state’s reputation as a major source of football talent in the country.

Online reactions in Manipur reflected familiar divisions, with community pages celebrating their respective players. A few posts noted the combined contribution, but commentary largely remained within separate social circles.

The win comes at a time when Manipur is still grappling with the effects of the ethnic unrest that began in 2023. More than 58,000 people continue to live in 351 relief camps across the valley and hill districts, separated by buffer zones monitored by central forces. Travel between regions often requires long detours because direct movement remains restricted. President’s Rule, imposed in February 2025, is still in effect, and over 3,000 looted firearms have yet to be recovered.

Living conditions in the camps remain difficult, with families housed in tarpaulin-lined cubicles and struggling with water shortages and limited sanitation. Aid groups report rising stress among children and teenagers; six suicides have been recorded in relief camps this year. Many families say they simply want conditions to stabilize so they can return home.

Sport had slowed sharply during the peak of the conflict, leaving grounds in Imphal and nearby districts largely unused. Local matches have since resumed, and in many camps, football is one of the few activities accessible to children without special permissions.

The qualification result does not change the broader situation in Manipur, but it underscores the state’s continued influence on Indian football — even in a period of sustained disruption. For many in Manipur, that continuity remains one of the few constants.