IWL 2025-26: Garhwal United FC and Sethu FC kick off with wins; Gokulam Kerala play out draw

The IWL Round 1 fixtures of the new season is in the books.

The Indian Women’s League (IWL) 2025-26 began in commanding fashion on Saturday, as Garhwal United FC and Sethu FC registered convincing victories on the opening day of Round 1.

As East Bengal FC enter the new season as defending champions after capturing their maiden IWL crown in 2024-25, some clubs have taken a positive step towards being prospective challengers.

Sethu FC and Garhwal United FC start strong

In the first clash of the season, Sethu FC edged past Kickstart Karnataka FC 2-1 in a closely fought encounter at the National Centre of Excellence in Kolkata. Sethu brought things level with Kaviya Pakkirisamy’s effort despite Kickstart’s spirited early goal. A few minutes later, Malavika P pulled her side ahead with a second goal in the second half to clinch all three points.

Elsewhere on opening day, Garhwal United FC made a memorable top-flight debut with a 3-1 victory over SESA Football Academy. Garhwal United, promoted from IWL 2 where they dominated en route to the title, looked sharp and clinical in their first IWL fixture.

Goals from Lhingdeikim Kipgen opened the scoring early, and captain Sanfida Nongrum added a superb strike before half-time, with Deepika Pal sealed a commanding first-half advantage. SESA’s late consolation coming too late to spark a comeback.

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A title contender drops points in Round 1

In another key fixture, Gokulam Kerala FC secured a 1-1 draw with Nita FA, despite a decisive first-half goal from Neha Sillay, before it was levelled after the break by Daniel Cuta Cidalia. Gokulam Kerala, runners-up in the 2024-25 IWL after a strong campaign in which they narrowly missed out on the title, will be disappointed not to convert their efforts into three points on opening day.

They remain one of the most experienced sides in the league and are expected to rebound as the season unfolds in later rounds. The remaining game of the round between East Bengal Women and Sribhumi was postponed with new dates and timings to be announced in short time.

Opening day was full of surprises

Opening day results suggest a competitive landscape emerging early in the season. Newly promoted sides like Garhwal United have immediately shown they can compete, while established outfits such as Sethu FC and Nita FA have capitalised on their opportunities.

Gokulam Kerala FC will be eager to bounce back after a narrow defeat, and defending champions East Bengal FC await their opening fixture with eyes firmly on retaining the crown this season.

As the teams prepare for their next games in the competition, fans can expect tightly contested matches, tactical adjustments and standout individual performances across the league in the upcoming rounds.

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