Emami East Bengal FC Strengthens Women’s Squad for 2025–26 Season
- Pixel Sports Football Desk
- Aug 1
- 2 min read
East Bengal have made a massive statement of intent ahead of their AFC Women’s Champions League 2025 debut and domestic title defence, securing the signature of Ugandan goal-machine Fazila Ikwaput alongside Indian internationals Shilky Devi and Payal Basude from rivals Gokulam Kerala FC.
The Red and Gold brigade, who lifted both the Indian Women’s League (IWL) and the Calcutta Women’s Football League (CWFL) in a historic 2024–25 season, have not only gone bold in the transfer market but also ensured continuity by renewing contracts of 14 key players, including stalwarts like Panthoi Chanu, Soumya Guguloth, Sandhiya Ranganathan, and Sangita Basfore.
Fazila Ikwaput’s arrival is a marquee moment for East Bengal’s women’s project. The 27-year-old forward from Uganda has been a proven performer in Indian football, having previously plundered goals with Sethu FC and Gokulam Kerala. Her pace, positioning, and eye for goal make her a nightmare for defenders, and she is expected to be a pivotal force in East Bengal’s AFC campaign.
Former Gokulam Kerala FC captain and centre-back Shilky Devi brings leadership and defensive stability to Anthony Andrews’ backline. Just 22, the Manipur-born player has already represented India at multiple age levels and was part of the senior national team setup.
Payal Basude, a creative presence in midfield, joins Shilky in making the switch from Kozhikode to Kolkata. Known for her composure, vision, and ball control, Payal’s addition will bolster East Bengal’s midfield depth, especially with the increased fixture load this season.
Even as East Bengal are strengthening from outside, the club has retained the core of its successful squad from last season. Goalkeeper Panthoi Chanu, midfield engine Sangita Basfore, attacking duo Sandhiya Ranganathan and Soumya Guguloth, and Ugandan forward Resty Nanziri are among the 14 players who’ve extended their contracts.
This blend of experienced Indian internationals and high-performing foreign talent provides Anthony Andrews with a balanced, battle-tested group ready to challenge both at home and abroad.
Head coach Anthony Andrews, who masterminded the club’s double last season, appears to be assembling a squad with depth, tactical versatility, and international exposure. With the Women’s AFC Champions League debut slated later this year, these early signings indicate that East Bengal are not content with just qualifying—they want to compete.
The AFC draw is awaited, but preparations are already in full swing at the Maidan club. With an increasingly professional structure, fan engagement, and the club’s legacy backing the project, Emami East Bengal FC Women are shaping up to be a powerhouse not just in Indian football, but on the Asian stage.
