Barrackpore, West Bengal – March 16, 2025: India international Ngangom Bala Devi showcased her brilliance with a stunning hat-trick as Sribhumi FC secured a hard-fought 3-2 win over Sethu FC in the Indian Women’s League (IWL) 2024-25 at the Bibhuti Bhushan Stadium. The match remained evenly poised at 1-1 going into halftime before Sribhumi edged ahead in the second half.

Bala Devi Leads the Charge

The experienced forward was the key difference in the contest, finding the net in the 39th, 49th (penalty), and 65th minutes. Sethu FC initially took the lead through Ugandan forward Hadijah Nandago in the 37th minute, but Bala Devi’s clinical finishing turned the game around. Although Lisham Babina Devi reduced the deficit for Sethu FC in the 88th minute, it was not enough to prevent Sribhumi from taking all three points.

Impact on the League Standings

With this victory, Sribhumi FC climbed to third place in the standings with 12 points from eight matches, while Sethu FC remained on 10 points from the same number of games.

Dominance in the Early Stages

Sribhumi FC dominated the opening half-hour, creating multiple scoring opportunities. The attacking trio of Bala Devi, Rimpa Haldar, and Mousumi Murmu put consistent pressure on the Sethu defense, but a lack of finishing prevented them from taking an early lead.

Sethu FC Takes the Lead Against the Run of Play

Despite being under pressure, Sethu FC managed to break the deadlock in the 37th minute. Malavika P delivered a precise cross from the right flank, allowing Hadijah Nandago to expertly head the ball past the goalkeeper.

Quick Response from Sribhumi

However, Sribhumi FC wasted no time in responding. Just two minutes later, a long-range effort was parried away by Sethu goalkeeper Sarangthem Khambi Chanu, but the ball fell perfectly for Bala Devi, who made no mistake in finishing the rebound with authority.

Second-Half Brilliance from Bala Devi

The second half began with Sribhumi FC continuing their attacking momentum. In the 49th minute, they were awarded a penalty, which Bala Devi confidently converted to give her team the lead.

Sethu FC’s defensive frailties were exposed again in the 65th minute when Bala Devi was left unmarked during a corner kick. Taking full advantage, she calmly chested the ball into the net, completing her hat-trick and putting Sribhumi FC in control.

Late Fightback Falls Short

Sethu FC attempted to stage a late comeback, with Lisham Babina Devi scoring in the 88th minute. However, Sribhumi FC held on to their lead, ensuring a vital win in their campaign.

Conclusion

Bala Devi’s clinical finishing and Sribhumi FC’s overall dominance proved to be the decisive factors in this thrilling encounter. With the league progressing, Sribhumi will look to build on this victory, while Sethu FC will need to regroup and address their defensive lapses to stay competitive in the tournament.

Watch Sribhumi FC vs Sethu FC highlights

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