AFC Women's Champions League 2025-26: East Bengal FC's Historic Journey
Kolkata's football legends, East Bengal FC, are set to embark on an extraordinary journey in the AFC Women's Champions League 2025, starting from Monday. Their first match against Bam Khatoon FC from Iran promises an exciting start to the group stage.
But here's where it gets intriguing: despite the challenge, East Bengal FC, led by coach Anthony Andrews, has defied all odds to reach this prestigious competition. Their journey began in the preliminary stage, where they topped Group E, outshining Hong Kong's Kitchee SC and Cambodia's Phnom Penh Crown FC. This remarkable feat earned them a spot in the main draw, making their participation in the AFC Women's Champions League all the more special.
Group B, a formidable ensemble, includes Wuhan Jiangda WFC from China, the five-time Chinese Women's Super League champions and the reigning continental champions. The group also features PFC Nasaf, a 16-time champion of the Uzbekistan Women's League, marking their debut on the continental stage. The stage is set for an intense battle.
The group phase will be a centralized affair, with all matches in Group B taking place at the Hankou Cultural Sports Centre from November 17 to 23. Wuhan Jiangda WFC will be the hosts, setting the stage for some thrilling encounters.
After the group stage, the top two teams from each group and the two best third-placed sides will advance to the knockout stage. The quarter-finals are scheduled for March, followed by the semi-finals and the final from May 20 to 23. This tournament promises to be a showcase of talent and determination, with East Bengal FC ready to make their mark on the continental stage.
Stay tuned as East Bengal FC takes on the challenge, defying expectations and inspiring football enthusiasts across the continent.
