Sethu FC showcased their dominance with a commanding 4-1 victory against Garhwal United FC in a 2025-26 Indian Women’s League (IWL) clash at the National Centre of Excellence in Kolkata.
Game Overview
After a goalless first half, Sethu turned the tide dramatically in the second period within a span of just 10 minutes. Dhurga P. opened the scoring in the 52nd minute, followed by Malavika P. in the 60th minute, and Lynda Kom Serto netted her eighth goal of the season in the 62nd minute. Nirmala Devi Phanjoubam added a spectacular fourth goal in the 74th minute. Garhwal United managed to score in the 82nd minute through Esther Tingjoukim.
This win marked Sethu’s fourth consecutive victory, extending their unbeaten streak to five matches. They sit firmly in second place with 16 points from seven games, trailing only East Bengal. In contrast, Garhwal United faced their fourth loss of the tournament, placing them eighth in the standings as the first phase of the league concluded.
First Half Dynamics
The first half was tightly contested, with both teams cautiously probing for openings. Sethu came closest to scoring with attempts from Lynda Kom and Abigail Antwi, both hitting the woodwork. Garhwal United maintained a disciplined defense, absorbing pressure and ensuring a scoreless halftime.
Turning Point in the Second Half
The mood shifted dramatically after the halftime break. Sethu emerged with renewed vigor, breaking the deadlock in the 52nd minute in a somewhat fortunate manner. Dhurga P. sent a hopeful ball into the penalty area, catching Garhwal goalkeeper Ribansi Jamu off-guard as the ball sailed over her into the net.
This goal opened the floodgates for Sethu. Just eight minutes later, Malavika P. doubled the lead with a remarkable individual effort, winning the ball inside the box, bypassing two defenders, and unleashing a powerful right-footed shot into the net.
Sethu struck again barely two minutes later. A defensive error by Ernestina Tetteh allowed Lynda Kom to seize a loose pass, and the in-form forward calmly curled the ball past Ribansi for her eighth goal this season.
Crowning Achievement and Late Consolation
Sethu remained in full control and delivered a stunning blow in the 74th minute when Nirmala Devi Phanjoubam executed a breathtaking free-kick from over 30 yards that flew past the helpless goalkeeper, making it 4-0.
Garhwal United did manage a consolation goal in the 84th minute when Esther Tingjoukim headed home from a corner delivered by Lhingdeikim, but it was too late to change the outcome of the match.