Odisha FC Inches Closer to Indian Women’s League Glory with Win Over East Bengal FC

Bhubaneswar: In a thrilling match at the Kalinga Stadium, Odisha FC’s women’s team took a significant step towards clinching the Indian Women’s League (IWL) 2023-24 title by defeating East Bengal FC 2-0 in a crucial penultimate round match on Sunday. The match remained goalless at halftime, but late goals secured a vital victory for Odisha FC.

With only one match remaining in the ongoing IWL, scheduled against Kickstart FC on March 24, Odisha FC is now on the brink of securing their maiden title in the league. The team needs to secure a victory in their final game to cement their position at the top of the table, leaving every other contender behind.

The breakthrough for Odisha FC came in the second half, with India international Indumathi Kathiresan scoring in the 70th minute and Myanmar striker Win Tun sealing the victory with a goal in the 90+1st minute.

Despite East Bengal FC’s resilient defensive performance, Odisha FC’s attacking prowess proved decisive in the second half. East Bengal’s goalkeeper Melody Chanu put up a valiant effort, but Odisha FC’s persistent attacks eventually paid off.

In the first half, Odisha FC dominated the attacking front, with players like Win Tun, Pyari Xaxa, Grace Dangmei, Juli Kishan, and Malti Munda constantly threatening the East Bengal goal. However, their efforts were thwarted by East Bengal’s solid defense.

The deadlock was finally broken in the 70th minute when substitute Indumathi Kathiresan found the back of the net with a powerful strike from inside the box. Karthika’s assist set up the goal, giving Odisha FC the much-needed lead.

In the dying moments of the game, Win Tun secured the victory for Odisha FC with her seventh goal of the campaign, converting a free-kick from nearly 30 yards out.

With this crucial win, Odisha FC has reclaimed the top spot in the IWL points table, while East Bengal FC suffered their ninth consecutive defeat and remains at the bottom of the table.

Odisha FC’s impressive performance has put them in a prime position to clinch the IWL title, as they look forward to their final match against Kickstart FC to seal their place in history.