East Bengal FC Makes History by Reaching AFC Women's Champions League Quarter-Finals

Historic Qualification for East Bengal FC

In a significant match on Saturday, East Bengal FC faced a 2-0 loss against North Korea's 4.25 SC during their final Group B game of the AFC Women's Champions League 2026-27 held in Kolkata. Despite this setback, the team achieved a remarkable milestone by securing a spot in the quarter-finals, as reported by Olympics.com. The match at Kishore Bharati Krirangan concluded with East Bengal finishing third in Group B, accumulating three points and a goal difference of -4. They advanced to the knockout stage as one of the two best third-placed teams across all groups.

According to the tournament rules, the top two teams from each group, along with the two best third-placed teams, qualify for the quarter-finals. Uzbekistan's Nasaf emerged as the best third-placed team with six points, while East Bengal and Myanmar's Ayeyawady both ended with three points. East Bengal's advancement was secured due to their superior goal difference of -4 compared to Ayeyawady's -6. This achievement marks East Bengal as the first Indian club to reach the quarter-finals of the AFC Women's Champions League, with the last-eight matches scheduled for March 2027 and the draw set for December 2026.

Match Recap: 4.25 SC vs East Bengal FC

The match began with 4.25 SC making an immediate impact, scoring in the second minute. Pak Ok I sent in a cross from the right, which was converted by Han Jin Hong with a powerful header. The North Korean team continued to apply pressure, with Ri Su Yang narrowly missing the target from another Pak Ok I cross in the 22nd minute. Just seven minutes later, Jong Pom Hui nearly doubled the lead, but her shot hit the post.

Before halftime, 4.25 SC extended their advantage. A free-kick from Pom Hui caused chaos in the East Bengal penalty area, allowing Jong Pok Yong to retrieve the ball and assist Oh Sol Song, who calmly finished into the bottom corner. East Bengal's goalkeeper, Elangbam Panthoi, made a crucial save shortly after the break, tipping Jong Ryong Jong's curling free-kick over the bar.

4.25 SC continued to create chances, with Oh Sol Song heading over from Myong Yu Jong's cross in the 68th minute. East Bengal pressed forward in the final moments, seeking a goal but were unable to penetrate the well-organized North Korean defense. Despite the loss, East Bengal's qualification is a significant achievement in their continental journey.