Kickstart FC Secures First Win in Indian Women’s League with Late Comeback
Kickstart FC Triumphs Over Sribhumi FC
Kalyani, Jan 2: Kickstart FC finally marked their first victory in the Indian Women’s League 2025-26, pulling off a thrilling comeback to defeat Sribhumi FC 2-1 at Kalyani Stadium on Friday.
Loveth Njideka Edeh equalized in the 81st minute after Yumnam Kamala Devi had given Sribhumi the lead with a penalty in the 12th minute. Babysana Devi then scored the decisive goal from another penalty in the 85th minute.
This win was crucial for Kickstart, who had struggled in their previous matches, now earning three points from five games. In contrast, Sribhumi remained at six points from four matches, lamenting missed chances.
Sribhumi started strong, controlling the game with effective passing and maintaining possession. They capitalized on Kickstart's lack of confidence, forcing mistakes early on.
The breakthrough came in the 12th minute when a corner led to a foul, resulting in a penalty awarded to Sribhumi. Yumnam Kamala Devi converted it calmly, despite Kickstart goalkeeper Maibam Linthoingambi Devi diving the right way.
With the early lead, Sribhumi continued to press, with Kayenpaibam Anju Chanu testing the goalkeeper and Kamala nearly assisting a goal, but Rimpa Haldar missed a one-on-one opportunity.
Kickstart regrouped during halftime, returning with improved defensive organization. They began to counterattack, looking for opportunities to shift the game's momentum.
The equalizer came in the 81st minute after a defensive lapse from Sribhumi. A miscommunication allowed Rafiyat Titilayo Aweda to intercept a pass, setting up Loveth Njideka Edeh for a clinical finish.
After the equalizer, Sribhumi faced renewed pressure. Just four minutes later, Anju Chanu was penalized for a handball in the box, leading to another penalty. Babysana Devi converted this penalty in the 85th minute, completing the comeback.
Kickstart held on in the final minutes, securing a vital win that could rejuvenate their season, although they still sit in the relegation zone at seventh place.