Garhwal United Crowned IWL 2 Champions with Dominant Win Over Roots FC

MAPUSA: Garhwal United FC, Delhi, wrapped up their Indian Women’s League 2 (IWL 2) campaign in style with a commanding 3-0 victory over Roots Football Club, Karnataka, under the floodlights at Duler Stadium, emerging as unbeaten champions.

Leading the charge was team captain Lhingdeikin, who netted twice, while striker Shruthi Kumari added the third goal to seal a flawless finish to the league stage for Garhwal United.

Roots FC held firm defensively for much of the first half, with goalkeeper Dhanushree pulling off three spectacular saves—two denying Shruthi and one from Lhingdeikin. However, the deadlock was broken in the 42nd minute when Sunalinda Lawren fouled Shruthi inside the box, allowing Lhingdeikin to convert from the spot and give her team a 1-0 lead.

In stoppage time of the first half, Lhingdeikin displayed individual brilliance to score her second goal, doubling Garhwal United’s advantage.

After the break, Shruthi, who had missed several earlier chances, finally found the back of the net in the 56th minute, sealing a dominant 3-0 win.

The post-match ceremony saw AIFF Women’s Committee Chairperson Valanka Alemao, AIFF Co-opted Member Climax Lawrence, and Walter Pereira presenting trophies and medals to the champions, runners-up, and match officials.

Meanwhile, Indian Arrows Women Juniors have also earned promotion to the Indian Women’s League 1 for the 2025-26 season, continuing their rise in the national circuit.

In the third-place playoff earlier, Sesa Football Academy bounced back from three straight defeats to thrash Krida Prabodhini Pune 4-0. Pushpa Parab led the charge with a brace, while Sushmita Jadav and Flani Costa added one goal each. Haston Lourenco officiated the final match of the league.

With talent, teamwork, and tactical brilliance on display, IWL 2 concluded on a high note, promising an even more competitive top-tier league next season.