Coach Anthony Andrews Proud of East Bengal’s Fighting Spirit After AFC Women’s Champions League Victory
East Bengal FC continued their impressive campaign in the AFC Women’s Champions League with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh City Women’s FC. Fazila Ikwaput emerged as the star of the evening, scoring twice in the first half to secure three valuable points for the Indian side. Following the victory, head coach Anthony Andrews expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance, highlighting the collective effort and determination that went into the result.
Xtratime Webdesk: East Bengal FC continued their impressive campaign in the AFC Women’s Champions League with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh City Women’s FC. Fazila Ikwaput emerged as the star of the evening, scoring twice in the first half to secure three valuable points for the Indian side. Following the victory, head coach Anthony Andrews expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance, highlighting the collective effort and determination that went into the result.
Speaking after the match in the post-match conference, Andrews emphasised the significance of building on the team's progress from the previous season. East Bengal have set their sights on reaching the next stage this time, having missed out on qualification in their previous campaign.
"Our target right now as a team is to qualify for the next stage. Last year, we missed that, but this is what we want to achieve. We want to go forward by working hard," Andrews said.
The coach also credited the people working behind the scenes for the team's development, expressing pride in the collective progress. However, he was quick to acknowledge that there is still room for improvement, particularly in front of goal.
"Finishing is one of the areas where we have to work, but at this moment, I'm happy that we got three points," he remarked.
Andrews was equally pleased with the contribution of the entire squad, including the substitutes, who followed the team's tactical plan and gave their best on the pitch.
Fazila opened the scoring in the 21st minute from the penalty spot before doubling East Bengal’s advantage in the 34th minute. Her brace gave the Red and Gold brigade a crucial cushion, and although Ho Chi Minh City managed to pull one back, East Bengal held on to claim an important victory.
With two more matches remaining, East Bengal will look to carry this momentum forward. Andrews also thanked the supporters who turned up to encourage the players, acknowledging their contribution to the team's journey. For the Red and Gold brigade, the victory is an encouraging step towards their qualification ambitions.
