On Monday, January 29, 2024, HOPS FC defeated Kickstart FC 5-1 in an exciting match at the Bangalore Football Stadium thanks to a masterful performance. The match featured incredible skills and tactical gameplay from both teams, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
Amazing striker Fredrica Torkudzor led the way for HOPS FC, taking center stage with an incredible hat-trick. Torkudzor’s incredible achievement, which she accomplished in the second half of injury time, demonstrated her skill on the field and cemented her place as an important member of the Delhi-based team. Gladys Amfobea and Shailja joined her in the scoring frenzy, each adding a goal to ensure a resounding victory for HOPS.
Karishma Shirvoikar gave Kickstart FC a strong start, but HOPS FC swiftly turned the tide and launched unrelenting attacks to force their way back into the game. Fredrica Torkudzor and Gladys Amfobea demonstrated their agility and goal-scoring ability, posing a serious threat to Kickstart’s defense.
The spectators were captivated by the thrilling end-to-end action that characterized the match as it played out. Both sides showed tenacity and willpower, with Kickstart FC continuing to press forward in an attempt to widen their lead. But HOPS quickly gained the upper hand, taking advantage of chances to level the playing field and ultimately take control of the match.
In the match’s crucial 28th minute, Fredrica Torkudzor showed off her skill by deftly handling a long ball from Rinku Devi and making a deft run to score the equalizer. Not only did this crucial goal give HOPS FC a boost, but it also laid the groundwork for their dominant play for the rest of the game.
With six minutes of regulation time left, Shailja stunned the crowd by scoring a spectacular goal from outside the box to give HOPS the lead as the first half came to an end. The goal gave HOPS more self-assurance and established the tone for their commanding performance in the second half.
After the half, Kickstart came out stronger than ever, enjoying extended possession times as they attempted to take back control of the game. But HOPS didn’t waver, using a calculated strategy centered on taking advantage of openings presented by the wings.
HOPS benefited from this well-thought-out approach when Fredrica Torkudzor skillfully connected with a cross from Gladys Amfobea to double the lead. Amfobea added her name to the scoresheet as well, extending HOPS FC’s lead by converting a pass inside the penalty area.
Fredrica Torkudzor dealt Kickstart its final blow in the closing minutes of the game by taking advantage of a defensive blunder to finish her incredible hat-trick well into injury time. Her clinical finish demonstrated her unrivaled skill and resolve on the field and cemented HOPS FC’s decisive victory.
With this decisive victory, Kickstart FC held onto third place in the IWL standings with 14 points, while HOPS FC surged to fourth place with 10 points. After seven games each, both teams are primed for an exciting finish to the season.
Looking ahead, Kickstart will square off against East Bengal on February 5 and HOPS FC will play their next match against Gokulam Kerala FC on February 3. Both teams will be keen to improve on their results and leave their mark on the league standings as the Indian Women’s League season progresses.
HOPS FC’s clinical performance against Kickstart, in summary, demonstrated their tenacity, talent, and tactical acumen on the field. Players such as Shailja and Fredrica Torkudzor gave outstanding performances, demonstrating HOPS’s ability to compete at the top level and become strong IWL contenders.
HOPS FC Starting XI
Anshika (GK), Sharda, Kipgen, Fredrica (C), Gladya, Aarti, Mamta, Shailja, Varshika, RInku, Jyoti
Kickstart FC Starting XI
Linthoi (GK), W. Linthoi, Jabamani, Pakpi, Supriya, Karishma, Sabina, Lepcha, Sonia, Dalima (C), Dipa
