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Time of India

Debutants Sesa FA make final push for IWL berth

The IWL 2 final round kicks off for Sesa FA at the Duler Football Stadium in Mapusa on Friday with a clash against Garhwal United FC at 8.30am Panaji: They were not even supposed to be there in the first place but Sesa FA senior women's team is now full of belief that they can make it to the top from the second-tier of the Indian Women's League (IWL). The IWL 2 final round kicks off at the Duler Football Stadium in Mapusa on Friday with a clash against Garhwal United FC at 8.30am. Roots FC face Indian Arrows Juniors later in the day. 'This team is the result of belief and hard work,' said coach Severino Fernandes. 'I am glad that the team is carrying forward their rich vein of form from the state league. They have demonstrated a level of commitment and maturity that belies their (IWL2) debut status. As we prepare to host the playoffs, we are taking care of every detail. Operation Sindoor Operation Sindoor: Several airports in India closed - check full list Did Pak shoot down Indian jets? What MEA said India foils Pakistan's attack on Jammu airport: What we know so far Our preparations include high-intensity drills, match simulations, detailed opposition analysis and focused recovery sessions. ' Sesa entered the competition only due to a last-minute withdrawal and are now out to prove that they belong to the upper echelons of women's football in India. The first-time winners of the Women's League in Goa are brimming with confidence and self-belief. In the qualifiers, Sesa topped group C with an unbeaten record, which included two wins and two draws. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Her body cannot endure this level of pain; please help her. Donate For Health Learn More Undo The opponents though will be far stronger in the final round as they aim to finish among the top two with Garhwal United FC (Delhi), Roots FC (Bengaluru), Krida Prabhodini Pune (Maharashtra) and Indian Arrows Women Juniors (AIFF developmental side) providing stiff opposition. 'The performance of our women's team is not an outlier, it's the result of ground work laid through the Women's League (in Goa), our investment in scouting and development, and a progressive footballing ecosystem that encourages young women to dream big,' said technical director Gavin Araujo. 'This group of players has shown what's possible when talent meets opportunity. They've put in the hours, they've faced tough battles on the field, and now they're poised to compete at the highest level. Hosting the playoffs is a proud moment for all of us, and we're confident the girls will rise to the occasion,' he added. Though football remains a team sport, individual efforts at Sesa cannot be discounted. There's Pushpa Parab, who is leading from the front, while Sushmita is a fine midfielder. Goalkeeper Ria Rajesh has also provided a good account of herself.