IWL 2024-25: Fazila’s Double Leads Gokulam Kerala FC to 3-0 Victory Against HOPS FC

Synopsis
On January 26, former champions Gokulam Kerala FC secured a 3-0 victory over HOPS FC in the Indian Women’s League 2024-25, with Fazila Ikwaput scoring twice. This win places Gokulam in second position on the points table, just one point behind leaders East Bengal.
Key Takeaways
- Gokulam Kerala FC solidified their position in the league.
- Fazila Ikwaput scored a brace, lifting her total to seven goals.
- Catherine Amo Aringo contributed with a stunning third goal.
- HOPS FC struggled to capitalize on their opportunities.
- The match showcased Gokulam's attacking prowess and HOPS FC's defensive vulnerabilities.
Kozhikode, Jan 26 (NationPress) The former champions Gokulam Kerala FC climbed to the second position in the Indian Women’s League 2024-25 standings after securing a convincing 3-0 victory against HOPS FC at the EMS Corporation Stadium on Sunday.
Outstanding Ugandan forward Fazila Ikwaput netted two goals (39’, 81’) for Gokulam, bringing her total to seven in the tournament, while Kenyan Catherine Amo Aringo added the third goal during stoppage time.
With this triumph, Gokulam has accumulated eight points from four matches, just one point shy of the leaders, East Bengal.
In contrast, HOPS FC finds itself in seventh place among the eight teams, having only secured one point after four games. Despite creating several opportunities, they were fortunate not to concede additional goals, particularly in the second half.
The home team dominated from the outset but had to wait until the 40th minute to open the scoring. This came as a result of a defensive lapse when Rinku Devi made a weak clearance that fell to Fazila, who seized the chance to score.
Fazila, who has been instrumental with seven of Gokulam’s ten goals, could have easily completed a hat-trick had she converted two straightforward chances. She finally netted her second in the 82nd minute when Catherine set her up with a precise through ball. Fazila's shot was simply too powerful for goalkeeper Priti Sarkar to intercept.
Catherine capped off the scoring with a spectacular goal, as she picked up the ball around 40 yards from the target and skillfully maneuvered past the defense to find the back of the net. Over four matches, HOPS FC has managed to score only once.
Their record might have been improved had they capitalized on their chances. While Varsha Rani displayed impressive agility on the right flank, Ghanaian forward Gladys Amfobea could have performed better to live up to her reputation.