Ikwaput nets injury-time winner as East Bengal beat Gokulam Kerala 1-0

East Bengal began its title defence with a 1-0 win over three-time former champion Gokulam Kerala FC at Kalyani Stadium on Friday, November 13, 2026. Ugandan forward Fazila Ikwaput scored in the second minute of stoppage time to secure the victory.

The match was part of the 10th edition of the Indian Women’s League. East Bengal controlled much of the early play but found Gokulam’s defence difficult to breach; goalkeeper Shreya Hooda and defender Arifa Zaheer Sayed were instrumental as Gokulam held firm amid sustained pressure.

After the interval East Bengal increased the tempo and launched a sustained series of attacks in search of a breakthrough. Gokulam’s organised defensive unit continued to limit clear chances and frustrated the Kolkata side.

The decisive moment arrived in added time when a goalmouth scramble presented an opening for Ikwaput. She finished with composure and precision to convert the opportunity in the dying moments and prompt celebrations among the East Bengal camp.

The result: East Bengal FC 1 (Fazila Ikwaput 90+2) bt Gokulam Kerala FC 0.

East Bengal leave Kalyani with three points from their opening IWL match, while Gokulam Kerala finish the game without a return.