The match at Kishore Bharati saw both teams trade early opportunities in a competitive opening period. Ho Chi Minh City signaled their intent when a volley from Ngo Thi Hong Nhung struck the crossbar, while East Bengal’s Resty Naziri was unable to convert a promising chance from close range. The deadlock was eventually broken in the 20th minute after a review by Football Video Support identified a handball by Rielly Chesna, who had attempted to block a run from
Ikwaput’s Clinical Finishing Secures Points
East Bengal maintained their momentum following the opening goal, coming close to extending their lead in the 28th minute when an ambitious long-range strike from Olivia Anokye rattled the woodwork. The pressure eventually paid off in the 34th minute as Ikwaput struck again to double the advantage. After Tanaka Hitomi delivered a powerful header into the path of the forward, Ikwaput successfully held off a challenge from Chesna before slotting the ball past goalkeeper Tran Thi Kim Thanh.
Trailing by two goals, the visitors from Vietnam emerged from the halftime interval with renewed purpose. Their persistence was rewarded in the 60th minute when they found a breakthrough to narrow the deficit. Despite the late pressure from Ho Chi Minh City, the Indian outfit held firm to secure the three points. East Bengal now look ahead to their next fixture against Korea Republic’s Hwacheon KSPO WFC, scheduled for Wednesday, while Ho Chi Minh City prepare to face DPR Korea’s 4.25 SC. Hwacheon KSPO enters the next round of matches following a 1-2 defeat to the DPR Korea side.
