Kalyani, Jan 2 (NationPress) In a thrilling turn of events, Kickstart FC marked their first victory in the Indian Women’s League 2025-26 by staging a late comeback to overcome Sribhumi FC with a score of 2-1 at the Kalyani Stadium on Friday.

Babysana Devi clinched the winning goal with a penalty kick in the 85th minute, following an equalizer from Loveth Njideka Edeh in the 81st minute, after Yumnam Kamala Devi had initially put Sribhumi ahead with a penalty in the 12th minute.

This victory, Kickstart's inaugural win this season, elevates them to three points after five matches, while Sribhumi remains at six points from four games, reflecting on missed chances.

Sribhumi commenced the match strongly, controlling the pace with confident passing and maintaining possession. With Kickstart struggling for confidence after four consecutive losses, they pressured high and capitalized on errors early on.

The breakthrough for Sribhumi came in the 12th minute when a corner kick led to a foul, resulting in a penalty. Yumnam Kamala Devi stepped up and successfully converted, despite Kickstart's goalkeeper, Maibam Linthoingambi Devi, guessing the correct direction.

Feeling buoyed by the early advantage, Sribhumi kept generating scoring opportunities.

Kayenpaibam Anju Chanu tested the goalkeeper with a fierce shot, while Kamala almost assisted Rimpa Haldar with a fine through ball, only for Haldar to miss a one-on-one chance against Linthoingambi. Despite their dominance, Sribhumi entered halftime without increasing their lead.

Kickstart regrouped during the break, returning to the field with improved composure and defensive organization. They began to limit Sribhumi's midfield space and looked to counterattack, knowing a single goal could change the match's dynamics.

The turning point arrived in the 81st minute due to a moment of indecision at the back. A routine pass rolled into the Sribhumi penalty area, with defender Poonam Sharma expecting goalkeeper Moirangthem Monalisha Devi to collect. Rafiyat Titilayo Aweda seized the opportunity, intercepting the pass and setting up Loveth Njideka Edeh for a precise finish, leveling the match.

Reeling from the equalizer, Sribhumi quickly found themselves under pressure again. Just four minutes later, a handball by Anju Chanu in the box led to another penalty being awarded. Babysana Devi demonstrated remarkable poise, converting the penalty in the 85th minute to complete the comeback.

Kickstart secured the win with determination, marking a significant boost in morale and a potential turning point in their campaign, although they remain in the relegation zone in seventh place.