Kalinga Warriors Salvage dramatic Point Against Kickstart FC


Odisha FC Women fought back from a goal down to secure a dramatic 1-1 draw against Kickstart FC in the Indian Women’s League 2024-25 clash at the Bangalore Football Stadium on Friday, February 7, 2025. Despite a 70th-minute lead for the home side, a late equalizer from Lynda Kom denied Kickstart FC their first victory of the season.

The match began with both teams adopting a cautious approach, focusing on possession and avoiding early mistakes. Kickstart FC, desperate for a win, gradually gained control, dominating possession and creating several chances. However, they failed to capitalize on the opportunities in the first half, with Odisha goalkeeper Shreya Hooda making crucial saves, particularly denying Ainembazi.

The breakthrough came early in the second half when Ainembazi redeemed herself for her earlier misses. In the 70th minute, she latched onto a perfectly placed low cross from the left, slotting the ball past Shreya Hooda to give Kickstart FC the lead.

Odisha FC increased the pressure in the final stages of the match. Their persistence paid off in the 82nd minute when Lynda Kom received a cross in the box. The forward showed great composure, controlling the ball before unleashing a powerful shot into the net to equalize for the visitors.

In the dying moments, both Neha and Eliane struck the woodwork in quick succession, forcing Kickstart FC to survive a nervy finish.

The draw earns Odisha FC a valuable point, keeping them in third place with 11 points from six games.