KOLKATA, MAY 19 (IANS): The Indian Women’s League (IWL) 2025-26 season concluded on May 18 with East Bengal FC lifting the trophy for the second time, capping off their campaign with a 2-0 victory over Sribhumi Football Club at the East Bengal Ground. The win not only sealed their dominance but also condemned Sribhumi to relegation alongside Sesa Football Academy.
East Bengal had already secured the championship with a game to spare, but their final fixture showcased their superiority. Ugandan striker Fazila Ikwaput, the league’s all-time leading scorer, converted a penalty in the 41st minute to notch her 20th goal of the season. She had earlier surpassed Sabitra Bhandari’s record with 62 career IWL goals. The second goal came in the 55th minute when Sulanjana Raul finished off a precise through ball from Karthika Angamuthu.
Despite Sribhumi’s defensive resilience, East Bengal controlled possession and territory throughout. Soumya Guguloth nearly added a third late in the game, striking the post in the 85th minute. The final whistle sparked jubilant celebrations as players and fans marked the title-winning campaign with flares and dancing.
The champions were presented with the trophy in the presence of dignitaries including president of the All India Football Federation, Kalyan Chaubey and officials from FIFA and East Bengal FC.
Individual honours reflected standout performances across the league – Best Striker: Fazila Ikwaput (East Bengal FC); Best Defender: Nirmala Devi Phanjoubam (Sethu FC); Best Midfielder: Sanfida Nongrum (Garhwal United FC); Best Goalkeeper: Panthoi Chanu Elangbam (East Bengal FC).
On final day, Gokulam Kerala and Nita FA 1-1 draw saw Priyadharshini score early for Gokulam before Pyari Xaxa equalised in stoppage time. Both sides pressed for a winner but failed to break the deadlock.
Kickstart FC and Sethu FC kickstart took the lead through Emem Peace Essien’s lob in the 22nd minute, but Sethu’s Hoshika restored parity in the 83rd minute, ending in a 1-1 draw.
Garhwal United vs Sesa FA: Garhwal secured survival with a 3-1 win. Goals from Lhingdeikim, Elizabeth Danso, and Shruti Kumari ensured victory, while Sesa’s Sulekha Kanhar briefly equalised. A late red card for Payel Layek compounded Sesa’s woes as they joined Sribhumi in relegation.
East Bengal’s campaign was defined by attacking flair and defensive solidity, with Ikwaput’s record-breaking exploits central to their success. Garhwal United’s spirited finish highlighted resilience in their debut season, while Sribhumi and Sesa FA faced the disappointment of relegation.
The conclusion of the season underscored the growing competitiveness of the IWL, with standout individual performances and tightly contested fixtures reflecting the league’s rising profile in Indian football.
