IWL 2024-25: Soumya's Late Strike Secures 1-0 Victory for East Bengal Over Sribhumi FC
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Synopsis
East Bengal secured a 1-0 victory against Sribhumi FC in the IWL 2024-25, thanks to Soumya Guguloth's late goal. This match marked the second consecutive win for East Bengal while Sribhumi faced their second straight defeat.
Key Takeaways
- East Bengal achieved a narrow victory.
- Soumya Guguloth scored the decisive goal.
- Sribhumi FC struggled with their second consecutive loss.
- Both teams displayed moments of strong defense.
- Missed opportunities proved critical for both sides.
Kolkata, Jan 15 (NationPress) East Bengal achieved their second consecutive victory of the season in the IWL 2024-25 by defeating their city rivals Sribhumi FC 1-0 at the East Bengal ground on Wednesday. Soumya Guguloth netted the sole goal of the match in the 76th minute. This loss marked the second straight defeat for the newly-promoted Sribhumi after their earlier loss to Sethu FC in Chennai.
The East Bengal squad, which had underperformed in their opening match, aimed to rectify their earlier mistakes and began the game energetically, creating numerous chances. The first opportunity arose as early as the fourth minute when Soumya Guguloth volleyed a loose ball inside the box, only for a Sribhumi defender to block it.
Despite multiple attacks from East Bengal, their finishing was hampered by resilient defending from Sribhumi. In the 14th minute, East Bengal had a golden opportunity when a long ball found Resty Nanziri, who was making a brilliant run towards the goal.
In a moment of panic, Monalisha Devi, the Sribhumi goalkeeper, rushed outside the box to intercept, but Nanziri skillfully rounded her and headed towards goal, only to shoot wide.
Four minutes later, Guguloth made a fantastic effort on the right wing, sending a low cross that just eluded Nanziri. Had she made contact, it would have given the hosts an early lead.
However, Devi redeemed herself with a great save against Elshaddai Acheampong, who had picked up a headed pass and aimed for goal. As halftime approached, Sribhumi were relieved to head into the break unscathed. The second half saw East Bengal’s wingers relentlessly delivering dangerous crosses, but finishing remained elusive.
As the game progressed, Sribhumi began to find their footing in the final stages, even crafting a few chances. In the 72nd minute, Rimpa Haldar was played through on goal, cutting into the box but failing to generate enough power to challenge Panthoi Chanu.
The missed opportunity proved costly for Sribhumi just four minutes later, as East Bengal capitalized on their efforts. A corner kick resulted in chaos at the left edge of the box, and Nanziri’s cross was redirected into the path of Sulanjana Raul.
The substitute’s low cross found an unmarked Soumya, who made no mistake and fired it home. East Bengal comfortably managed the last minutes of the game, securing their second consecutive win.
