East Bengal FC once again proved why they are the dominant force in Indian women’s football as they successfully defended their Indian Women’s League 2025-26 title with a commanding 2-0 win over Nita Football Academy on Tuesday, May 12. Playing in front of their home fans in Kolkata, the Red and Gold Brigade sealed the championship with two matches still remaining in the season.
The victory further highlighted East Bengal’s consistency throughout the campaign as they remained unbeaten at the top of the table with 33 points after Matchday 12. Meanwhile, Sethu FC stayed second with 23 points, while Kickstart FC Karnataka occupied third place with 19 points. Earlier in the day, Gokulam Kerala FC defeated Sribhumi FC 1-0, while Sethu FC and SESA Football Academy played out a 1-1 draw.
Soumya Guguloth leads East Bengal to glory
East Bengal controlled the game from the opening whistle and looked determined to finish the title race in style. Their breakthrough came in the 25th minute when Soumya Guguloth produced a composed finish after receiving a long ball from Ashalata Devi. The forward timed her movement perfectly before lifting the ball past the goalkeeper to hand the hosts a deserved lead.
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The Kolkata side dominated possession throughout the first half and barely allowed Nita Football Academy to settle into the contest. Their defensive organisation and attacking intent once again showed why they have been the strongest team in the league this season.
Dominant display seals title defence
After entering the second half with a one-goal advantage, East Bengal continued pressing forward in search of another goal. Their persistence paid off in the 65th minute when Fazila Ikwaput delivered a brilliant pass to Soumya Guguloth. The striker dribbled past a defender, rounded the goalkeeper, and calmly slotted home her second goal of the night.
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East Bengal women's defended the crown IWL East Bengal continued creating opportunities until the final whistle, with Sulanjana coming close to scoring late in stoppage time after striking the crossbar. Nita FA struggled to create attacking chances, while frustration showed when Nishima Kumari received a yellow card in the 72nd minute.
Soumya Guguloth was deservedly named Player of the Match for her decisive brace in the title-clinching victory.
