The Unmatched Success of Gokulam Kerala in Indian Women's Football
As the Indian Super League (ISL) faces uncertainty, the Indian Women's League (IWL) promises excitement for football fans in India. The 2025-26 IWL season, set to begin on December 20, will see eight top women's football clubs compete for the championship. Among them, defending champions East Bengal and the dominant Gokulam Kerala, who have a history of success in the IWL.
The Powerhouse of the IWL: Gokulam Kerala
Gokulam Kerala has been a force to reckon with in the IWL, having won the tournament three times since its inception in 2016. Their most recent victory came in the 2022-23 season, making them the only team to win the IWL three times in a row.
Their Journey to Success
Gokulam Kerala's journey to dominance began in the 2019-20 IWL season, where they finished the group stages with an impressive record of five wins and no losses. In the knockout stages, they defeated Sethu FC, KRYPHSA, and eventual top scorer Sabitra Bhandari to claim their first title.
The Covid-19 pandemic forced a hiatus in the IWL from 2020-21, but Gokulam Kerala returned with a vengeance in the 2021-22 season. They won all 11 matches in the league-based format, with Elshaddai Acheampong scoring a record 20 goals to win the Golden Boot.
The 2022-23 season brought a challenge with the expansion of the IWL to 16 teams, but Gokulam Kerala overcame it by winning six of their seven group stage matches and advancing to the final, where they defeated Kickstart by a 5-0 margin.
Relevance to North East India and Beyond
The success of Gokulam Kerala in the IWL has significant implications for women's football in India, particularly in the North East region. The club's dominance serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring female footballers in the region, inspiring them to pursue their dreams in the sport.
Moreover, Gokulam Kerala's achievements in the IWL reflect positively on the broader Indian football scene, demonstrating the potential for growth and success in women's football.
Looking Ahead: The 2025-26 IWL Season
As the 2025-26 IWL season approaches, Gokulam Kerala will aim to add another title to their impressive collection. Their rivals, East Bengal, will also strive to reclaim the championship, making for an exciting battle between the two powerhouses of Indian women's football.
Regardless of the outcome, the IWL promises to deliver thrilling football action and serve as a platform for the continued growth and development of women's football in India.