India's Riiohlang Dhar to officiate as assistant referee in FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup semi-final

A proud moment for the Meghalayan native and India as an up-and-coming footballing nation.

India’s Riiohlang Dhar and her journey from the Meghalaya police department to the bright lights in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup has been inspirational. The 34-year-old is set to make history as she will officiate as an assistant referee in the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup semi-final between Spain and England on October 31 in the Dominican Republic. 

The announcement not only marks a significant moment for Indian football but is a testament to her grueling journey as a woman in sports officiating.

Riiohlang Dhar’s journey to the top

Hailing from a small town in the ‘Abode of Clouds’, Dhar’s journey in the world of football began at a young age. While she initially played the sport, her passion for the game eventually led her to officiate at only age 19. Officiating in local tournaments helped Dhar quickly ascend through the ranks, and earn a place on the national stage. It was her dedication and hard work in these tournaments that led to her selection for international events.

Her trailblazing rise to prominence is not the first instance of a woman referee making it big in the world of sports officiating. Before Dhar, Uvena Fernandes was the only Indian assistant referee to officiate in a FIFA World Cup final. Fernandes officiated the 2016 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Jordan. 

The tournament which is being held for the first time in the Caribbean, has already showcased competitive football action and talented players representing their countries. Being selected as an assistant referee in a World Cup semi-final is a beautiful silver lining and a testament to Dhar’s hard work and resilience in the world of football.

Her selection is the representation of the growth and recognition of women in Indian football. She will serve as an inspiration to many aspiring female referees in the country, proving that breaking barriers in a predominantly male-dominated sport is possible. Riiohlang Dhar’s journey exemplifies the changing landscape of football officiating and serves as a powerful message of empowerment and possibility.

The upcoming semi-final match will be a showcase of elite football talent from two countries famed for producing legendary football footballers. It will be an opportunity for Dhar to demonstrate her skills on the international stage and maybe one day officiate in a FIFA Men’s World Cup tournament. With this important responsibility on her shoulders, the football community in India will be keeping a close eye on her.

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