IWL 2025-26: East Bengal FC secure thumping win over NITA FA, Kickstart Karnataka FC upsets Sribhumi FC in Round 5

East Bengaluru FC have a two-point lead on the top of the IWL standings.

The fifth round of the Indian Women’s League (IWL) 2025-26 season continued with some shock results as goals flew into the net across the games on Friday, with teams like East Bengal FC and Kickstart Karnataka FC claiming important wins.

Following the conclusion of the latest round, East Bengal FC are the new league leaders, as they triumphed over NITA FA following a 0-5 win away from home. Kickstart Karnataka FC scored a massive 2-1 win against Sribhumi FC earning their first win this season in the IWL.

Gokulam and Garhwal play stalemate, Kickstart secures win

Gokulam Kerala FC kicked off the Round 5 gameweek with a 1-1 draw against a spirited Garhwal United FC side. Goals from Shilji Shaji in the first half for the Malabarians was nullified by Deepika Pal’s second half strike in the 52nd minute.

Kickstart Karnataka FC secured an unprecedented 2-1 home win with goals from Thingbaijam Babysana Devi and Loveth Ayila securing their first win this term. In a round, where there was a top of the table clash during the gameweek, Kickstart’s win could be a contender for a shock result of the IWL this season. The victory helps the team now build some momentum and moves them up the IWL table in the coming rounds.

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A decisive win for East Bengal FC to lead IWL table

Reigning IWL champions East Bengal FC secured a huge 0-5 victory away from home over NITA FA on Friday. Goals from Sulanjana Raul, Soumya Guguloth, Resty Nanziri, Fazila Ikwaput and Naorem Priyangka Devi all contributed in front of goal against NITA FA.

A huge win for the champions, who will be keeping a close eye on NITA FA despite the dominant win in Round 5 in the IWL this season. The final game saw Sethu FC thump five goals past SESA FA courtesy of goals from Martina Thokchom, Kaviya Pakkirisamy, Lisham Babina Devi in the first half, before Lynda Kom Serto and Ruchi two more goals in the second half enroute to a 0-5 win.

Round 5 of the campaign has shaken up the IWL standings significantly with some teams moving up and down the table. The 2025-26 season could see a repeat or a new champion being crowned this season if teams continue to progress as things stand.

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