East Bengal FC Dominates Rajshahi Stars in AFC Women's Champions League Opener

East Bengal FC launched their AFC Women’s Champions League 2026-27 campaign with a resounding 4-0 victory over Rajshahi Stars FC. Olivia Anokye's two goals, along with contributions from Rimpa Haldar and Soumya Guguloth, highlighted their dominance in the match. The team will continue their journey with upcoming matches against Guam's Rovers FC and Sabah FA. Discover more about their performance and the tournament structure in this detailed report.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 17, 2026, 23:59 IST

East Bengal FC's Strong Start in AFC Women's Champions League

Kota Kinabalu [Malaysia], August 17: East Bengal FC kicked off their AFC Women’s Champions League 2026-27 journey with an impressive 4-0 victory over Bangladesh's Rajshahi Stars FC during their preliminary match at Likas Stadium on Monday.

Leading the charge for the Indian team was Olivia Anokye, who scored two goals, while Rimpa Haldar and Soumya Guguloth also contributed to the scoreline, showcasing East Bengal's dominance from the outset, as reported by a sports news outlet.

It took East Bengal just nine minutes to open the scoring after being awarded a penalty. Anokye confidently converted the penalty kick, despite Rajshahi goalkeeper Rupna Chakma nearly saving it.

Continuing their strong performance, East Bengal doubled their lead in the 26th minute when Haldar found the net.

Before halftime, Anokye secured her second goal. In the 38th minute, Haldar sent a cross to the far post, where Sulanjana Raul quickly reacted to pull the ball back into the danger zone. Anokye was perfectly positioned to finish, extending the lead to 3-0.

After the break, Rajshahi displayed more resilience and created their best chance through Monika Chakma, whose long-range shot forced East Bengal goalkeeper Elangbam Panthoi into action.

However, East Bengal maintained their control and added a fourth goal in the 72nd minute. A defensive error allowed Raul to set up Guguloth, who made no mistake in front of goal.

This victory earns East Bengal three points in their opening Group A preliminary match. They will next face Guam's Rovers FC on Thursday, followed by a match against hosts Sabah FA on Sunday.

All three matches are being held at Likas Stadium in a centralized single-round-robin format.

East Bengal secured their spot in this continental tournament by winning the 2025-26 Indian Women’s League. This marks their second appearance in an AFC competition, having previously made history as the first Indian club to win a match in the AFC Women’s Champions League last season.

The preliminary stage for 2026-27 includes 24 teams divided into six groups, with the six group winners advancing to the league stage alongside six teams that qualified directly.