East Bengal Win IWL 2025-26 Title, Dominate Season with Two Games to Spare

East Bengal FC reaffirmed their dominance in Indian women’s football by clinching the Indian Women's League 2025–26 title with a commanding 2-0 victory over Nita Football Academy, sealing the championship with two matches still to play.

The result not only confirmed their status as back-to-back champions but also underlined their control over the competition across the season. With 33 points after Matchday 12, East Bengal sit comfortably at the top of the table, well ahead of second-placed Sethu FC, who trail with 23 points.

The title-clinching performance was defined by composure, structure, and attacking clarity traits that have been consistent throughout East Bengal’s campaign.Soumya Guguloth emerged as the standout performer, scoring both goals to seal the victory. Her first came in the 25th minute, as she executed a precise scoop finish after latching onto a long ball delivered from deep by Ashalata Devi.

The move highlighted East Bengal’s ability to transition quickly from defence to attack, a key component of their tactical setup. Carrying a 1-0 lead into the second half, East Bengal maintained control of possession and continued to dictate the tempo. Their dominance translated into a second goal in the 65th minute.

This time, it was a well-constructed team move. Fazila Ikwaput played a precise pass to Soumya, who dribbled past a defender, rounded the goalkeeper, and calmly finished to complete her brace. The hosts continued to create chances, with Sulanjana coming close to adding a third goal late in the game, only to see her effort strike the crossbar. Defensively, East Bengal were equally solid, restricting Nita FA to minimal attacking opportunities. The opposition struggled to break through a well-organised setup, and their frustration was evident when Nishima Kumari picked up a yellow card in the second half.

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Soumya Guguloth was named Player of the Match, capping a performance that defined East Bengal’s title-winning campaign.

East Bengal’s triumph was built on sustained consistency rather than isolated performances. From the opening matchday, they established themselves as the team to beat, combining defensive discipline with attacking efficiency. Their ability to control games both with and without the ball—set them apart from the rest of the field. Whether leading early or managing tight situations, East Bengal consistently maintained structure and composure.

Winning the title with two matches to spare reflects not just quality, but dominance. Gokulam Kerala FC secured a narrow 1-0 win over Sribhumi FC, with captain Emueje Ogbiagbevha scoring the decisive goal in the 42nd minute.

The visitors controlled the first half and capitalised on their attacking pressure just before the break. In the second half, Sribhumi attempted to respond but were unable to break down Gokulam’s defensive structure.

The result keeps Gokulam in the mid-table battle, level on points with Nita FA.

Sethu FC were held to a 1-1 draw by SESA Football Academy in a closely contested encounter. Sethu took an early lead through S Lynda Kom in the 9th minute, but SESA responded in the second half with Maurine Achieng scoring the equaliser in the 59th minute. Despite late attempts from both sides, neither could find a winner, leaving Sethu in second place but further behind the leaders.

Kickstart FC Karnataka edged past Garhwal United FC with a 1-0 victory, thanks to Aruna Bag’s goal in the 41st minute. The match was tightly contested, but Kickstart managed the game effectively after taking the lead, securing three important points that keep them in third position.

East Bengal’s title-winning campaign reflects the growing competitiveness and structure within Indian women’s football. The league continues to provide a platform for both established players and emerging talent, contributing to the overall development of the sport. For East Bengal, this victory reinforces their status as the benchmark in the domestic circuit. For the rest of the league, it sets a clear standard one defined by consistency, tactical clarity, and execution.

As the season approaches its conclusion, the title may already be decided, but the larger impact lies in what performances like these signal for the future of the women’s game in India.