Bibhutibhushan Stadium, Barrackpore April 5, 2025 – Sribhumi FC put on a resilient display to hold city rivals East Bengal FC to a thrilling 1-1 draw in the Indian Women’s League (IWL) 2024-25, delaying the latter’s hopes of clinching their maiden league title.
A win on the night would have sealed East Bengal FC’s first IWL crown, but despite the draw, the Kolkata giants extended their lead at the top to five points, thanks to Gokulam Kerala’s defeat against Kickstart FC. With two matches remaining, East Bengal still have the opportunity to secure the championship on April 11, when they face defending champions Odisha FC.
First-Half Misses Haunt East Bengal FC
East Bengal FC dominated the opening stages but failed to capitalize on several golden opportunities. In just the fifth minute, Maurine Achieng found herself one-on-one after a precise pass from captain Elshaddai Acheampong, only to miss the target.
Moments later, Resty Nanziri was presented with a chance following a pinpoint cross from Sarita Yumnam, but she too couldn’t find the net. Elshaddai tried her luck from distance in the 20th minute, her powerful effort rattling the upright.
Sribhumi FC, although mostly on the defensive, created danger on the counter. Their best first-half chance fell to captain Bala Devi, who rose above three defenders to connect with a cross, only to see her header crash off the crossbar.
Late Drama as Both Teams Share the Spoils
The second half followed a similar script, with East Bengal pressing high and missing more chances in the final third. Coach’s tactical switch in the 80th minute brought on Anju Tamang, and the move paid off immediately.
In the 82nd minute, Anju latched onto a clever through ball from Elshaddai and slotted it past Sribhumi goalkeeper Aditi Chauhan to put East Bengal FC ahead and seemingly within touching distance of the title.
However, Sribhumi FC had other plans. Just minutes later, they earned a free-kick on the edge of the East Bengal box. Sandra Atinga stepped up and fired a powerful strike that took a deflection off the wall, deceiving Panthoi Chanu and bringing the home side level.
Sribhumi almost clinched a shock victory in stoppage time when Rimpa Haldar’s long-range shot smacked the crossbar, leaving East Bengal FC hanging on.
Title Race Still Alive
Despite the draw, East Bengal remain in pole position with a five-point cushion. Their next chance to wrap up the title comes against Odisha FC on April 11. Meanwhile, Sribhumi FC stay third with 16 points from 12 games and continue to stake their claim for a top-three finish.
Key Takeaways
- East Bengal must wait to secure their first IWL title.
- Sribhumi’s late equalizer highlights their fighting spirit.
- Anju Tamang made an instant impact off the bench.
- The IWL title race remains alive heading into the final two match weeks.
Watch Sribhumi FC vs East Bengal FC highlights
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