East Bengal capped an incredible SAFF Women’s Club Championship campaign by beating Nepal’s APF Club 3-0 in the final in Kathmandu on Saturday. The Red and Gold were above their opponents in every department, combining attacking flair with tactical discipline. This was the inaugural edition of this competition.
Striker Fazila Ikwaput scored two goals, while Shilky Devi added the other. It was a standout performance by East Bengal, who scored 16 goals in five matches and conceded none. They won four and drew one. The other participating clubs were from Nepal, Pakistan, Bhutan and Bangladesh.
Fazila, whose performances lit up the championship, was at the centre of this success. The prolific forward was the Golden Boot and Golden Ball winner, earning $2,000 in prize money. She scored nine goals and provided three assists. The Ugandan set the tone for East Bengal’s offensive play with her movement, poise and finishing, which destroyed the opposition defence.
Elangbam Panthoi Chanu, the India international under the East Bengal bar, had a flawless tournament. She demonstrated outstanding positioning, command and consistency while keeping five clean sheets. She deservedly received the Golden Glove and $1,000 in prize money.
Although Fazila and Panthoi made headlines, East Bengal’s victory was about teamwork. Abena Opoku provided strength and confidence at the back. Shilky impressed with her intelligent and relentless work in midfield. Sulanjana Raul’s versatility and attacking intent was vital. They served as the core of a bunch that was united and mentally tough. The Ugandan trio of Fazila, Abena and midfielder Resty Nanziri served the team well.
East Bengal received $10,000 (Rs 9 lakh approximately) in prize money. On Sunday at 10 pm, the winning team will land at Kolkata airport. A sizable crowd is anticipated to greet the champions.
There isn’t time for celebration. East Bengal begin their Indian Women’s League (IWL) campaign against Sethu FC in Kalyani on December 24. Encouraged by success in an international event, the defending IWL champions will try to maintain this momentum and be prepared to take on new challenges.
For more updates, follow Revsportz
