East Bengal FC Crowned Champions of Inaugural SAFF Women’s Club Championship

Kathmandu, Nepal | December 20, 2025

East Bengal FC etched their name into South Asian football history as they were crowned champions of the inaugural SAFF Women’s Club Championship 2025, producing a commanding 3–0 victory over hosts APF FC in the final at the Dasharath Stadium, Kathmandu, on Saturday.

In front of a vocal home crowd backing the Nepali champions, the Indian side delivered a performance marked by tactical discipline, attacking efficiency, and defensive solidity to lift their first international club title.

First Half: East Bengal Take Control

The final began at a high tempo, with APF FC looking to assert themselves early through physical duels and quick transitions. However, East Bengal quickly settled into their rhythm, dominating possession and patiently building attacks from the back.

The breakthrough arrived in the 22nd minute, when Fazila Ikwaput capitalised on a defensive lapse. Timing her run perfectly, the striker controlled a long ball inside the box and calmly slotted home to give East Bengal a deserved lead.

Buoyed by the opener, East Bengal continued to press high and stretch the APF backline. Their persistence paid off again in the 35th minute, as Shilky Devi Hemam rose highest to meet a well-delivered cross, powering a header past the goalkeeper to double the advantage.

APF attempted to respond before the interval, but East Bengal’s defence remained compact and composed, ensuring the teams went into halftime with the visitors firmly in control at 2–0.

Second Half: Ruthless Finish Seals the Title

Any hopes of a home comeback were dashed almost immediately after the restart. Just a minute into the second half, Fazila Ikwaput struck again, finishing clinically after a swift attacking move to make it 3–0 and effectively put the contest beyond doubt.

With a comfortable lead, East Bengal managed the game intelligently, maintaining possession and denying APF space to exploit. The hosts tried to push forward in search of a consolation goal, but were repeatedly thwarted by disciplined defending and timely interceptions.

East Bengal remained dangerous on the counter, creating additional chances, though they showed maturity by prioritising control and game management as the minutes ticked away.

Final Whistle: History Made

When the final whistle sounded, East Bengal’s players and staff celebrated a landmark achievement — becoming the first champions of the SAFF Women’s Club Championship. The victory capped an outstanding tournament run in which they remained unbeaten, showcased attacking flair, and maintained defensive consistency.

Match Details

Final: SAFF Women’s Club Championship 2025Result: East Bengal FC 3–0 APF FCVenue: Dasharath Stadium, KathmanduDate: Saturday, December 20, 2025

Goals:

• Fazila Ikwaput (22’, 46’)

• Shilky Devi Hemam (35’)

This triumph marks a significant milestone for East Bengal FC’s women’s team and stands as a proud moment for Indian club football on the South Asian stage.