Opening Fixtures of Indian Women’s League: Sethu Madurai FC Come From Behind to Beat Kickstart FC.
Kolkata, December 20: The opening fixtures of the Indian Women’s League 2025–26 saw Sethu Madurai FC begin their campaign with a spirited comeback 2–1 victory over Kickstart FC at the New Town Centre of Excellence, Kolkata on Saturday morning.
Kickstart FC took an early lead in the 12th minute when Kiranbala Chanu went down inside the penalty box, prompting the referee to award a penalty. Babysana Devi made no mistake from the spot, calmly converting to give Kickstart a 1–0 advantage.
Sethu Madurai FC responded almost immediately. In the 16th minute, Lydna unleashed a powerful shot from a quick attacking move, but Kickstart goalkeeper Maibam pulled off a stunning save to deny the equaliser.
The pressure finally told in the 20th minute. Ruchi threaded a precise through ball to Kavya, who controlled it well on the left flank before curling a beautiful left-footed shot into the net to made the score at level and make it 1–1.
Sethu thought they had taken the lead in the 32nd minute when Abigail headed the ball into the goal, but the effort was ruled out for offside.
The comeback was completed early in the second half. In the 48th minute, Malavika struck with her left foot to put Sethu Madurai FC ahead 2–1, a goal that ultimately proved decisive.
Kickstart FC pushed for an equaliser in the remaining minutes, but Sethu Madurai FC stayed compact at the back and managed the game well to secure all three points.
The comeback win gave Sethu Madurai FC a confident start to their Indian Women’s League campaign, while Kickstart FC will look to bounce back in the upcoming fixtures. Sethu Madhurai FC will face East Bengal women on 24 december, Kickstat FC have their next fixtures against Garhwal FC on the same date.
* All match live on Indian Football YouTube channel.
IWL 2025-26: Sethu Madurai FC vs Kickstart FC highlights
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