East Bengal FC Dominates Rajshahi Stars in AFC Women's Champions League Opener
East Bengal FC's Impressive Start
East Bengal FC kicked off their AFC Women's Champions League 2026-27 journey with a resounding 4-0 victory over Bangladesh's Rajshahi Stars FC at Likas Stadium on Monday. Olivia Anokye was the standout performer, scoring two goals, while Rimpa Haldar and Soumya Guguloth also contributed to the scoreline, showcasing East Bengal's dominance from the outset.
Match Highlights: A Four-Goal Showcase
1. East Bengal opened the scoring just nine minutes into the match with a penalty, expertly converted by Anokye, despite Rajshahi's goalkeeper Rupna Chakma nearly saving it.
2. The Indian team maintained their control and extended their lead in the 26th minute when Haldar scored.
3. Anokye netted her second goal before halftime. In the 38th minute, Haldar's cross found Sulanjana Raul, who quickly set up Anokye for a close-range finish, making it 3-0.
4. After halftime, Rajshahi attempted to fight back, with Monika Chakma forcing a save from East Bengal's goalkeeper Elangbam Panthoi. However, East Bengal sealed their victory with a fourth goal in the 72nd minute, as Raul assisted Guguloth, who finished confidently.
Looking Ahead: Tournament Format and Upcoming Matches
With this win, East Bengal secured three points in their Group A preliminary-stage match. Their next challenge will be against Guam's Rovers FC on Thursday, followed by a match against hosts Sabah FA on Sunday. All games are being held at Likas Stadium in a centralized single-round-robin format.
East Bengal earned their spot in this continental tournament by clinching the 2025-26 Indian Women's League title. 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 2026-27 preliminary stage features 24 teams divided into six groups, with the six group winners advancing to the league stage alongside six teams that qualified directly.