PANAJI
The Sesa Football Academy (SFA) Senior Women’s Team has qualified for the national playoffs of the Indian Women’s League-2 (IWL-2) after a strong showing in their debut season. The team will host the playoff matches at Duler Stadium, starting May 9.
Making their first appearance in the competition, the SFA women’s side remained unbeaten in the group stage and topped the table, scoring 13 goals in four matches. Their performance stood out for its attacking approach and consistent defensive organization. The team entered the league following a last-minute slot that opened up due to a withdrawal and made full use of the opportunity.
Key contributions came from forward Pushpa Parab, who led the attack effectively, and captain Sushmita, who controlled the midfield. Goalkeeper Ria Rajesh also played a pivotal role, making crucial saves that helped the team maintain clean sheets and a strong goal difference.
Head Coach Severino Fernandes attributed the success to the team’s discipline and preparation. “They have demonstrated a level of commitment and maturity that belies their IWL2 debut status,” he said, adding that preparations for the playoffs include match simulations and detailed opposition analysis.
The team’s rise follows their victory in the Vedanta Women’s League, Goa’s local women’s football competition. The current squad represents a structured development effort at SFA, which has expanded into women’s football in recent years.
The upcoming playoff stage will see SFA face opponents such as Garhwal United FC (Delhi), Roots FC (Bengaluru), Krida Prabhodini Pune (Maharashtra), and Indian Arrows Women Juniors (AIFF’s developmental side). Matches are expected to be closely contested, with each team bringing distinct styles and experience.
The SFA squad now prepares to test itself against some of the strongest sides in the second division of Indian women’s football, with a chance to secure promotion and further recognition at the national level.
