Vadodara: Facing a field full of faster, stronger boys in a foreign country would shake most 11-year-olds—but not Dhanashree Gandhi. The young Baroda footballer turned her initial fear into fierce determination at the Barca Academy World Cup in Spain.She soon found her rhythm, taking on her opponents with remarkable grit and confidence. Dhanashree was the only girl among 53 players selected from India for the prestigious tournament organised by FC Barcelona, held in Spain from April 1 to April 5. She competed in the boys’ team in her age category.“Initially, I was scared seeing boys from the opposing teams charge at me. They were stronger and much faster. But after the first two games, I overcame my fear and played my natural game. It was a very enjoyable experience and I learnt a lot,” said Dhanashree, a resident of Alkapuri.Playing as a defender, she featured in seven Under-12 matches across various stadiums in Spain. The exposure to international talent proved invaluable. “Playing with footballers from different countries is a completely different experience. Apart from improving my skills, I also want to build stamina like them. Most of them never seemed tired even after the games,” said the Class 6 student.Dhanashree’s football journey began four years ago at Navrachana School in Bhayli. While her father, Satyen Gandhi, played football in his younger days, it was at school that she discovered her passion for the sport. She soon progressed through sub-junior ranks and has since represented her team in several tournaments, even captaining it on occasion.A fan of Lionel Messi, Dhanashree now dreams of representing India on the international stage.
