Following a three-week hiatus due to the FIFA Window, the Indian Women’s League (IWL) resumed its action with a showdown between Hops FC and East Bengal FC at the Ambedkar Stadium in the capital on Friday, March 1, 2024. The encounter saw Hops FC assert their dominance with a resounding 3-0 victory over their Kolkata rivals, marking a significant return to form in their IWL campaign.
Table of Contents
Match Recap:
Hops FC, under the guidance of coach Om Prakash Chhibber, showcased their prowess early in the game, securing a comfortable 2-0 lead by halftime. Pooja and Ghanaian sensation Gladys Amfobea contributed crucial goals in the 26th and 40th minutes, respectively, setting the stage for a commanding performance. The home side sealed their triumph with a late goal by Fredrica Torkuzor in the 89th minute, securing three valuable points in the race for the title.
Team Standings:
With this victory, Hops FC elevated their position on the points table, accumulating 13 points from nine matches, including one draw and four defeats, to stand fourth overall. Meanwhile, East Bengal FC faced another setback, languishing in sixth place with just four points, characterized by eight losses and a solitary win.
Key Moments:
The game commenced with an early chance for East Bengal in the 6th minute, as Sanjida’s powerful header was skillfully parried away by Hops goalkeeper Anshika. Hops also had their opportunities, with Neha’s attempts in the 9th and 14th minutes, albeit failing to convert into goals. The deadlock was finally broken in the 26th minute when Pooja capitalized on a well-executed pass from Neha to find the back of the net.
Mid-game Dynamics:
Despite several attempts from both sides, the scoreline remained unchanged until the 40th minute when Gladys extended Hops FC’s lead with a clinical finish, courtesy of an accurate cross from Fredrica. The momentum shifted firmly in favor of Hops, leaving East Bengal struggling to mount a comeback.
Closing Moments:
Hops FC sealed their victory in the dying minutes of the game, as Fredrica displayed composure inside the box, dribbling past East Bengal defenders to calmly slot the ball home. With this goal, Fredrica elevated her tally to seven goals for the season, establishing herself as one of the joint second-top scorers in the league.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Hops FC delivered a commanding performance in their resumed IWL campaign, securing a convincing 3-0 victory over East Bengal. With key contributions from players like Pooja, Gladys Amfobea, and Fredrica Torkuzor, Hops demonstrated their determination to contend for the league title. Meanwhile, East Bengal FC faces an uphill battle to improve their standing in the competition. As the IWL progresses, all eyes will be on Hops FC as they strive to maintain their momentum and emerge as strong contenders for the coveted championship title.
HOPS FC Starting XI
Anshika (GK), Sharda, Ritu, Kipgen, Fedrica, Neha, Gladys (C), Pooja, Aarti, Mamta, Shailja
East Bengal Starting XI
Mamani (GK), Sibani, Sanjida, Michel, Sushmita, Sathi, Trisha (C), Sulanjana, Binomala, Sarita, Seema
