East Bengal Women Eye Historic AWCL Knockout Berth as Anthony Andrews Calls for Fan Support

Xtratime Webdesk: East Bengal FC Women are determined to make a stronger impression in the 2026–27 AFC Women's Champions League (AWCL) Group Stage after narrowly missing out on a quarter-final berth last season. With back-to-back Indian Women's League titles behind them, the Moshal Girls are now looking to translate their domestic success into a significant achievement on the continental stage.

Head coach Anthony Andrews believes last season's experience has helped the squad understand the demands of international football and identify areas that needed improvement.

“There were a lot of mistakes last season, but it was a learning curve for the girls. We have a good number of young girls and good local talents coming up now. Playing at the bigger level helps them understand that the pace is much faster,” Andrews said in the pre-match press conference.

The coach also highlighted the work done behind the scenes to strengthen the squad, particularly with the addition of foreign players and tactical preparation.

“We have strengthened the team with a good number of foreigners. We have worked really hard with them, and I hope they put everything on the pitch tomorrow. We have also played good tactical games this season to understand whether we can solve the problems we faced last season,” he added.

Despite the absence of competitive domestic fixtures since the preliminary stage in August, Andrews is confident about his team's physical preparation. The coaching staff have maintained an intensive training schedule over the past two months to ensure the players remain match-fit.

East Bengal will also face opponents who have enjoyed recent competitive action in their respective domestic leagues. However, the coach insisted that his team has made the best possible use of the resources and preparation time available.

Reflecting on last season's narrow failure to reach the quarter-finals, Andrews said: “We missed out on the quarter-final spot by a whisker due to some momentary lapses. This time, we are trying to rectify those mistakes, go a level up and reach the knockouts.”

Player Sathi Debnath echoed the determination within the dressing room, stressing that the players and coaching staff have worked tirelessly towards the continental challenge.

Andrews also appealed to Kolkata's football supporters to turn up in large numbers, believing their presence could provide the team with an important home advantage.

“If you all come in huge numbers, it will be an extra boost for the girls to push till the 90th minute,” he said.