GFA says AIFF committee push ensured spot for team
PANAJI
The Goa Football Association (GFA) on Sunday announced that Sesa Football Academy has been confirmed as Goa’s representative in the upcoming Indian Women’s League (IWL).
GFA President Caitano Fernandes, who is also a member of the AIFF League Committee, played a key role in securing Goa’s slot in the national women’s competition, the football body said. "His (Caitano's) push at the committee level ensured that Goan football continues to have a seat at every major national platform," the GFA posted on its website.
With Sesa FA joining the IWL lineup, Goa now has teams competing in the ISL, I-League and IWL. Sesa FA had fallen short of a direct promotion to the Indian women's top-flight after they missed a top-two finish in the 2024-25 Indian Women's League 2. They finished third in the final round with one win and four losses, earning 3 points, while the top two teams, Garhwal United and Indian Arrows, secured direct promotion to the IWL.
Fernandes said the inclusion was important for maintaining Goa’s presence across national competitions.
“I’m proud to see Goa take its rightful place across every top league in the country. Sesa FA’s inclusion in the IWL isn’t just a win for the club — it’s a win for women’s football in our State," the GFA boss said.
"We’ve worked hard to make sure Goan teams are visible, competitive, and part of India’s football structure at the highest levels. This is the direction we intend to keep pushing.”
The GFA congratulated Sesa FA on their inclusion and said it looks forward to supporting the team as they take their place on the national stage.