Indian footballer Jyoti Chouhan, who etched her name in history as the first Indian woman to score a hat-trick in top-tier European football, has secured a contract extension for another season with Croatia’s WFC Dinamo Zagreb. Chouhan’s remarkable achievements, including her historic hat-trick, have garnered recognition, leading to her continued partnership with the club.
Jyoti Chouhan’s impressive journey into the spotlight began when she made history by netting a hat-trick for WFC Dinamo Zagreb against ZNK Agram in the Croatian league, becoming the first Indian woman to achieve this feat in European top-flight football.
Her consistent performance and dedication to the club have been pivotal in securing her contract renewal with WFC Dinamo Zagreb. This decision reflects her exceptional showing on the international stage and her remarkable display during the Elite Women’s Trials held in June 2023.
Chouhan’s association with the club traces back to her discovery during the inaugural edition of the trials in June 2022, where she was scouted by WFC Dinamo Zagreb.
The recent edition of the ‘Women in Sports Elite Football Trials’ witnessed the participation of 27 women footballers, vying for opportunities with five Australian clubs and two European clubs. Esteemed head coaches from clubs such as Western United FC Melbourne, Adelaide United FC, Perth SC, WFC Dinamo Zagreb of Croatia, and Marbella FC of Spain conducted the trials at AIFF’s National Centre of Excellence in Kolkata.
Expressing her enthusiasm, Jyoti Chouhan stated, “I am thrilled to rejoin WFC Dinamo Zagreb for another season and am determined to give my best for the club. The previous season was a valuable learning experience for me, and this season, I aim to elevate the team’s position in the table and strive for success.”
Marija Margareta Damjanovic, Head Coach & Sports Director of ZNK Dinamo Zagreb, commended Chouhan’s hard work, historic hat-trick, and overall contributions to the team. He emphasized their commitment to supporting her journey as a footballer.
Sanaya, the founder of Women in Sports, underscored the significance of Jyoti Chouhan’s achievements for Indian sports. She highlighted the positive impact that Chouhan’s success can have on inspiring other girls to play in Europe and contribute to the growth of football in the country.
Chouhan’s continued achievements and contributions exemplify the spirit of Indian athletes aiming to excel on the international stage. Her accomplishments open doors for more opportunities and further elevate the level of women’s football in India.
-IANS
