On Tuesday, January 23, 2024, Gokulam Kerala FC defeated East Bengal FC 4-0 at the East Bengal Ground in a thrilling match that featured a display of skill and power. In the current Indian Women’s League (IWL) 2023–24 season, the Malabarians proved their mettle by winning three vital points. East Bengal is now in a difficult position in the league standings after suffering their fourth straight loss.
Fazila Ikwaput’s Hat-Trick Steals the Show:
The game’s standout player was unquestionably Ugandan forward Fazila Ikwaput, whose incredible hat-trick made an impression on everyone. Sandhiya Ranganathan scored the first goal in the seventh minute to give Gokulam Kerala FC the early advantage. Fazila Ikwaput quickly assumed the lead, scoring twice in the space of 14 minutes to put East Bengal behind 3-0 at the half.
Sandhiya Ranganathan’s Early Strike:
Sandhiya Ranganathan, who showed off her goal-scoring skills in the seventh minute, established the early momentum. Gokulam Kerala FC took the lead with a skillfully executed lob over East Bengal’s goalkeeper, K Melody Chanu, from the left side of the opposition box. The defending champions’ early goal set the tone for their eventual dominant performance.
Fazila Ikwaput’s Clinical Finishing:
The way that Fazila Ikwaput contributed to the game was remarkable. The Ugandan striker took advantage of a perfectly timed pass to get a one-on-one opportunity with the goalkeeper, showcasing her skill and clinical finishing. With a cool head, Fazila beat the goalkeeper to double Gokulam’s advantage. Her second goal demonstrated her technical skill and gave Gokulam a 3-0 lead at the half. It was a deft chip over the keeper.
Hat-Trick Heroics:
It took Fazila Ikwaput just three minutes to complete her hat-trick in the second half. She demonstrated her goal-scoring prowess by slotting the defense-splitting through ball into the back of the net after collecting it. This outstanding performance strengthened Gokulam Kerala FC’s lead in the game, making it difficult for East Bengal to mount a comeback.
Defensive Resilience and Missed Opportunities:
Gokulam Kerala FC demonstrated their attacking strength, but East Bengal was lucky to avoid giving up more goals. East Bengal were saved from further humiliation by a couple of near misses, a wonderful save by their goalkeeper, and a pivotal goalline clearance by one of their defenders. The fact that the Red and Gold Brigade was unable to seriously endanger Gokulam’s guardian, however, underscores the performance gap between the two groups.
Current Standings and Next Fixtures:
Gokulam Kerala FC now has 11 points from three wins, two draws, and one loss, good for third place in the league table after this victory. They lag behind Kickstart FC and Odisha FC. On the other hand, East Bengal, who have only three points from six games, are in the penultimate position. On January 28, Gokulam Kerala FC will play Sethu FC in their next match, and on January 30, East Bengal FC will play Sports Odisha in Kolkata.
Conslusion:
Gokulam Kerala FC demonstrated their dominance in women’s football with their decisive 4-0 victory over East Bengal FC in the IWL 2023–24. The team’s attacking ability was showcased by Fazila Ikwaput’s hat-trick and Sandhiya Ranganathan’s early goal. The way the reigning champions played against East Bengal shows how determined they are and how skilled they are on the field as they continue their league journey.
Gokulam Kerala FC Starting XI
Beatrice Ntiwaa Nketia (GK), Thounaojam Kritina Devi, Dhurga P, Nongmaithem Ratanbala, Sandhiya Ranganathan, Fazila Ikwaput, Asem Roja Devi (C), Anju Tamang, Soumya Guguloth, Loitongbam Ashalata Devi, Hemam Shilky Devi
East Bengal Starting XI
Keisham Melody Chanu (GK), Nongmeikapam Sibani Devi, Cindy Remruatpuii Colney, Michel Castanha, Trisha Mallick (C), Lourembam Menaka Devi, Sarita Yumnam, Irom Prameshwori Devi, Toijam Thoibisana Chanu, Th Sahena, Kshetrimayum Margaret Devi
