Raipur | April 2, 2026
When Kiran Pisda stepped up as a goalkeeper during a penalty shootout against Arunachal Pradesh in the semi-finals of the Khelo India Tribal Games, she leaned on years of resilience shaped by challenges and setbacks.
At 24, Kiran is at the peak of her abilities, having already represented India and played in the Croatian Women’s League for Dinamo Zagreb. She is now pushing for consistent selection in major international tournaments.
Early Support and Inspiration
Kiran’s journey began with strong backing from her school and family. Her brother Girish Pisda, a national-level player, inspired her to pursue football seriously.
“I got a lot of support in school. That’s where I got opportunities to play at state and national levels, and my confidence kept growing,” she said.
Challenges at the National Level
After moving to Raipur for a physical education degree, Kiran impressed scouts during the Chhattisgarh Women’s League and earned a call-up to a national camp.
However, she struggled initially with fitness and mindset.
“At that time, I was not physically fit enough and my mindset was not at the required level,” she admitted.
Turning Point Through Self-Improvement
Determined to improve, Kiran focused on fitness, match analysis, and positional awareness. The biggest transformation, however, came in her mindset.
“I told myself that no matter what happens, I will not think negatively. Negativity directly affects performance,” she explained.
Her mentor, Coach Yogesh Kumar Jangra, played a crucial role in keeping her motivated and focused.
Versatility as a Key Strength
Kiran’s biggest asset is her versatility on the field.
“I started as a striker, then played in midfield, and now I play as a full-back. A footballer should be ready to play in multiple positions,” she said.
Her domestic performances led to opportunities with clubs like Kerala Blasters, where she continued to evolve as a complete player.
International Exposure and Setbacks
Kiran has represented India multiple times, including the SAFF Championship 2022, and gained valuable international experience with Dinamo Zagreb.
Despite her achievements, setbacks like missing out on the AFC Women’s Asian Cup tested her resilience.
“It hurts when you don’t get selected, but I now use it as motivation to improve,” she said.
Mental Strength Under Pressure
Handling pressure has become one of Kiran’s defining qualities.
“When you play at a higher level, pressure is always there. You have to learn how to handle it,” she noted.
She also emphasized how team performance influences individual confidence.
Inspiring Tribal Youth
Coming from a tribal background, Kiran understands the challenges faced by athletes in remote regions.
She believes initiatives like the Khelo India Tribal Games are crucial for providing opportunities and exposure.
“There is so much talent in tribal areas, but players don’t always get opportunities. These Games give them confidence to dream big,” she said.
Future Goals
Kiran aims to deliver consistent performances in the Indian Women’s League and secure regular national team call-ups.
“I want to keep improving and represent India in major tournaments. Not getting selected doesn’t mean you’re not good—it means you need to work harder,” she concluded.