Shillong, Oct 29: Jakrem SC concluded their Group C campaign in the Indian Women’s League 2 (IWL 2) 2026-27 with a commanding 3-0 victory over Mumbai Knights FC at the SSA Stadium here today.
With three wins from three matches, Jakrem SC finished on top of Group C with 9 points, securing qualification for the final round in their debut participation in the competition.
The matchsaw Jakrem gradually take control after a closely contested opening period, with Bahunlang Synrem (40′), Iaphisha Marbaniang (60′) and Marbarin Nongrum (67′) finding the net.
Mumbai Knights had an early opportunity in the 10th minute when a clearance attempt by Jakrem goalkeeper Banrisha Wahlang fell to Geetika Negi but the Mumbai midfielder was unable to capitalise.
Two minutes later, Radhika Rohit Vyas played a promising pass to captain Mahi Virdi, only for Jakrem defender Darishisha Kharlyngdoh to intervene in time and clear the danger for a corner.
Jakrem responded with attacking intent. In the 15th minute, Bahunlang linked up with Marbarin, whose effort went wide. Rimika Khongkai also tested Mumbai goalkeeper Anitha S with a long-range attempt in the 24th minute, while Judith Kharmuti, making her first start in the starting XI, came agonisingly close to scoring in the 27th minute. Her shot, following a superb cross from Marbarin, struck the crossbar before being gathered by the goalkeeper.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 40th minute. Marbarin delivered a dangerous corner that travelled beyond the defenders. Although Anitha got a touch to the delivery, she could not hold it, allowing Bahunlang to head home and register her second goal of the league campaign.
Jakrem made two changes at half time, bringing on Iaphisha and Baiahunshihsa Lyngdoh Nongbri in place of Naphishisha Kharkongor and Judith. The substitutes immediately added energy to the attack, combining in quick counterattacks down the left flank.
The second goal came in the 60th minute. Darishisha unleashed a free-kick from distance that forced Anitha into a save. The goalkeeper could not hold the ball, however, and substitute Iaphisha reacted quickest to score with her first touch, marking her maiden goal in the league and doubling Jakrem’s advantage.
Seven minutes later, Jakrem struck again. Another long-range free-kick from Darishisha, taken from almost the halfway line, caused problems inside the Mumbai penalty area. Iaphisha attempted to connect with the delivery but could not make clean contact, and the ball fell perfectly for Marbarin, who calmly tapped it home to make it 3-0.
The goal completed a brace for Marbarin, who had also provided the assist for Jakrem’s opening goal. Her influential performance earned her the Player of the Match award.
Jakrem SC’s victory confirmed a perfect Group C campaign, with three wins from three matches and 9 points at the top of the standings.
The four group winners and the two best second-placed teams across the groups will advance to the six-team final round, which will be played in a single leg round robin format, with the dates and venue to be announced by the officials after the conclusion of all group-stage matches.
(Jakrem SC photo)