The match was a closely contested affair, with both sides creating early opportunities. Ho Chi Minh City nearly drew first blood when a volley from Ngo Thi Hong Nhung rattled the crossbar, while East Bengal’s Resty Naziri narrowly missed an opening at the opposite end of the pitch.
Ikwaput's Clinical Performance Secures Points
The breakthrough arrived in the 20th minute after a handball by Rielly Chesna, identified via Football Video Support, halted an attacking run by
East Bengal eventually doubled their lead in the 34th minute. Following a powerful header from Tanaka Hitomi, Ikwaput showed composure to hold off Chesna before slotting the ball past goalkeeper Tran Thi Kim Thanh. This goal completed her brace and provided the Kolkata-based side with a comfortable cushion heading into the interval.
Resolute Defense Holds Off Vietnamese Rally
Ho Chi Minh City responded with increased intensity in the second half, finding a way back into the game in the 60th minute. A free-kick from Tran Thi Thu Xuan caused disarray in the East Bengal penalty area, allowing substitute Dau Nguyen Quynh Anh to capitalize with a diving header.
Despite the mounting pressure from the Vietnamese side, East Bengal’s defense remained disciplined. The Indian team nearly restored their two-goal lead in the 74th minute when Anokye teed up Ikwaput for a tap-in, but a timely sliding block from Cu Thi Huynh Nhu kept the scoreline tight. Ho Chi Minh City continued to search for an equalizer in the closing stages, but East Bengal successfully held their ground to claim all three points.
Looking ahead, East Bengal are scheduled to face Korea Republic's Hwacheon KSPO WFC on Wednesday. In the other Group B fixture, Hwacheon KSPO previously suffered a 1-2 defeat to DPR Korea's 4.25 SC, who are set to play Ho Chi Minh City next.
