Fazila Ikwaput hat-trick leads East Bengal to dominant 3-1 win over Sribhumi in Indian Women’s League 2025-26, extending table lead, breaking scoring records, and showcasing title-winning form with clinical attacking football and defensive solidity.
A clinical attacking display underlined another dominant evening at the East Bengal Ground as East Bengal FC powered past Sribhumi FC with a 3-1 victory in the Indian Women’s League 2025–26 season. The result further strengthened East Bengal’s position at the top of the table, showcasing their title credentials with authority and consistency.
The match belonged emphatically to Fazila Ikwaput, whose hat-trick proved decisive in dismantling Sribhumi’s resistance. The Ugandan striker’s performance not only secured three crucial points but also propelled her into the record books, as she surpassed Ngangom Bala Devi to become the second-highest scorer in league history, trailing only Sabitra Bhandari.
East Bengal began on the front foot, pressing aggressively and dictating tempo from the opening whistle. Their intent was clear early on when Ikwaput found the net within minutes, only to see the effort ruled out for offside. Despite the setback, the forward remained a constant menace, using her pace and positioning to stretch Sribhumi’s defensive line.
A promising early move saw Ikwaput latch onto a lofted pass from Ashalata Devi, but her attempted chip drifted wide. Meanwhile, Sribhumi attempted to maintain composure, building from the back and seeking opportunities on the counter. Rimpa Haldar offered glimpses of threat, cutting in from the flank and testing the defensive setup, though without delivering a decisive finish.
As the first half progressed, East Bengal’s sustained pressure began to yield openings. Shots from distance and intricate build-up play kept Sribhumi pinned deep. The breakthrough finally arrived in the 37th minute when a defensive misjudgment allowed Ikwaput to pounce. Showing composure, she slotted the ball past the advancing goalkeeper to give her side a deserved lead.
Sribhumi had a brief moment of hope before halftime when a powerful effort struck the crossbar, but East Bengal entered the break narrowly ahead, having controlled most aspects of the game.
The second half began with immediate impact. Within a minute of the restart, Ikwaput doubled the advantage, cutting inside with precision before curling a well-placed shot into the bottom corner. The goal effectively shifted momentum further in East Bengal’s favor, allowing them to dictate proceedings with greater confidence.
The hosts continued to dominate possession and territory, limiting Sribhumi’s ability to mount meaningful attacks. Despite occasional forward moves, the visitors struggled to maintain rhythm against East Bengal’s organized defensive structure.
Ikwaput completed her hat-trick around the hour mark, demonstrating sharp awareness and clinical finishing under pressure. Turning swiftly inside the penalty area, she unleashed a powerful strike that left the goalkeeper with little chance. The goal not only sealed her individual brilliance but also underlined East Bengal’s superiority on the night.
Sribhumi managed a late consolation in the 80th minute following a midfield lapse. A quick transition allowed Rimpa Haldar to find space and finish clinically, marking only the second goal conceded by East Bengal this season. However, the late strike had minimal impact on the outcome, as the hosts remained firmly in control until the final whistle.
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With this victory, East Bengal extended their tally to 21 points from seven matches, reinforcing their dominance in the league standings. Their blend of attacking efficiency, defensive discipline, and individual brilliance continues to set them apart as strong contenders for another championship title.
The performance also highlighted the growing competitiveness of the league, with players delivering high-quality football and raising the overall standard of the competition. Yet, on this occasion, it was Ikwaput’s night—a display of precision, power, and poise that defined the match and strengthened East Bengal’s march toward continued success.
