Kickstart FC registered a crucial 2-1 comeback victory over East Bengal FC in Indian Women’s League 2025-26 on Wednesday to snap the defending champion’s nine-game winning streak.
Elsewhere, Gokulam Kerala FC secured a commanding 6-2 win against Garhwal United FC, Sribhumi FC staged a brilliant second-half fightback to hold SESA Football Academy to a 2-2 draw, and Sethu FC produced a stunning second-half turnaround to defeat Nita FA 3-1.
At the East Bengal Ground, Kickstart FC pulled off the upset of the season so far.
The Moshal Girls made a dream start in the seventh minute. Resty Nanziri broke through and, rather than taking the shot herself, unselfishly passed to prolific forward Fazila Ikwaput, who made no mistake from inside the box.
However, their joy was short-lived. In the 16th minute, a long ball caused a disastrous mix-up between East Bengal goalkeeper Elangbam Panthoi Chanu and defender Ashalata Devi. Emem Peace Essien quickly pounced on the goalkeeping howler, slotting the ball home to restore parity at 1-1.
Gokulam Kerala FC secured a commanding 6-2 win against Garhwal United FC. | Photo Credit: AIFF Media
Gokulam Kerala FC secured a commanding 6-2 win against Garhwal United FC. | Photo Credit: AIFF Media
The match was then halted for around half an hour due to severe rain and thunderstorms. Once play resumed in the tricky conditions, both sides battled fiercely for midfield supremacy.
Kickstart found the decisive breakthrough in the 58th minute through an absolute screamer. Th Babysana Devi unleashed a powerful curler from 20 yards out that left the East Bengal goalkeeper completely clueless, putting Kickstart in the lead.
Despite relentless late pressure from the host to protect its 100 per cent record, Kickstart’s defence held firm to secure three vital points. Sandhya Maity was named the Player of the Match for her commanding performance.
Published on May 07, 2026