Did East Bengal Secure Their AFC Women's Champions League Group Stage Spot with a Draw Against Kitchee?
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Synopsis
In an exhilarating match, East Bengal clinched a spot in the AFC Women’s Champions League Group Stage 2025-26 after a tense 1-1 draw against Kitchee SC. The match showcased thrilling moments as both teams vied for victory, but East Bengal's earlier performance ensured their advancement. Discover the key highlights and implications of this significant match!
Key Takeaways
- East Bengal advances to the Group Stage of the AFC Women’s Champions League.
- The match ended in a 1-1 draw against Kitchee SC.
- Sangita scored the opening goal for East Bengal.
- Ho Mui Mei equalized for Kitchee in the second half.
- Next, the Group Stage draw will take place on September 11.
Phnom Penh, Aug 31 (NationPress) East Bengal secured their place in the Group Stage of the AFC Women’s Champions League 2025-26 after ending their final Qualifiers Group E match in a 1-1 stalemate against Kitchee SC from Hong Kong, China, on Sunday.
This draw elevated East Bengal to a total of four points, leaving Kitchee two points behind and eliminated from the group stage race.
Kitchee, who required a win to advance, controlled the early moments of the game. However, East Bengal employed a similar strategy to their opening match, with Soumya Guguloth and Fazila Ikwaput making significant runs down the center.
The pressure from East Bengal resulted in a goal in the ninth minute, as Ikwaput expertly assisted Sangita, who calmly finished past Leung Wai Nga.
Despite attempts to come back, Kitchee faced strong resistance from East Bengal's goalkeeper, Elangbam Panthoi Chanu.
The second half saw Kitchee come out with renewed vigor, managing to equalize just before the hour mark through Ho Mui Mei.
However, they could not find a winning goal, allowing East Bengal to advance to the Group Stage draw set for September 11.
East Bengal began their journey with a narrow 1-0 victory over Phnom Penh Crown FC at Cambodia's National Sports Complex, thanks to a decisive second-half goal from Fazila Ikwaput.
This marks East Bengal's inaugural participation in Asia's elite women's club tournament, having earned their spot by showcasing a dominant performance in the 2024-25 IWL, winning 12 out of 14 matches and suffering only one defeat.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the remarkable achievement of East Bengal in the AFC Women’s Champions League. Their journey reflects not just skill but a commitment to excellence that positions them as a formidable presence in women's football. Their performance in the qualifiers showcases the growing stature of women’s sports in our region.
NationPress
31/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the match?
The final score was 1-1 between East Bengal and Kitchee SC.
What does this draw mean for East Bengal?
This draw secured East Bengal's advancement to the Group Stage of the AFC Women’s Champions League 2025-26.
Who scored the goals in the match?
Sangita scored for East Bengal, and Ho Mui Mei equalized for Kitchee SC.
When is the Group Stage draw?
The Group Stage draw is scheduled for September 11.
How did East Bengal perform in the previous matches?
East Bengal started their campaign with a 1-0 win over Phnom Penh Crown FC.
