IWL 2025-26: Kickstart breaks East Bengal’s nine-match winning streak; Gokulam Kerala registers a big victory

Kickstart FC recorded a crucial 2-1 comeback win over East Bengal FC in the 2025-26 Indian Women’s League on Wednesday, breaking the defending champions’ nine-match winning streak.

Elsewhere, Gokulam Kerala FC recorded an impressive 6-2 win against Garhwal United FC, Sribhumi FC put up a brilliant second-half battle to hold SESA Football Academy to a 2-2 draw, and Sethu FC pulled off a stunning second-half turnaround to beat Nita FA 3-1.

At the East Bengal Ground, Kickstart FC caused the upset of the season so far.

The Moshal Girls made a dream start in the seventh minute. Resty Nanziri broke through and, instead of shooting herself, unselfishly passed to prolific striker Fazila Ikwaput, who made no mistake from inside the penalty area.

However, their joy was short-lived. In the 16th minute, a long ball caused a disastrous mix-up between East Bengal goalkeeper Elangbam Panthoi Chanu and defender Ashalata Devi. Emem Peace Essien quickly pounced on the keeper’s roar and slotted the ball home to restore parity at 1-1.

The match was then stopped for about half an hour due to heavy rain and thunderstorms. Once play resumed in the tricky conditions, both sides battled fiercely for midfield supremacy.

Kickstart found the decisive breakthrough in the 58th minute with an absolute screamer. Th Babysana Devi unleashed a powerful curler from 20 yards out, leaving the East Bengal goalkeeper clueless, giving Kickstart the lead.

Despite relentless late pressure from the hosts to protect its 100 percent record, Kickstart’s defense held firm to secure three crucial points. Sandhya Maity was named Player of the Match for her impressive performance.

Published on May 7, 2026