IWL-2: YWC Thambalkhong qualify for final round as Group B toppers
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, November 01 2026: Youth Welfare Club, Thambalkhong (YWC-Th) have marched into the final round of the Indian Women's League 2 (IWL-2) after finishing at the top of Group B .

YWC-Th played out a goalless draw against Madhya Pradesh's Narmada Valley Football Club, Mandala, this morning at the Capital Football Arena in Bhubaneswar.

The draw was more than enough to secure the pole position for the Manipur side, who had already established a commanding lead in the group following three consecutive victories.

IWL-2: YWC Thambalkhong qualify for final round as Group B toppers

With qualification already secured, the team management opted to rest several key players for the final group fixture.

This allowed squad rotation, giving bench players a valuable opportunity to showcase their talent against the MP outfit.

YWC-Th enjoyed a dominant group-stage campaign.

They opened with a thumping 5-0 victory over Pune Krida Prabhodhini Academy, followed by a hard-fought 3-2 win against Sports Odisha.

They then cruised past Telangana's DKR Football Academy with a 5-1 thrashing.

Today's morning draw brings their total to 10 points, cementing their position at the top of the table as they head into the final round.

Notably, 6 teams- four table toppers and two second best teams among 20 teams divided in four groups, will qualify for the final round.

Celebrating the milestone, head coach Wangkheirakpam Tomba called the qualification a divine blessing and a testament to the team's grit.

"It is a reflection of the hard work the girls put in on the field and their relentless urge to succeed," Tomba stated.

Looking forward to the final round, he added, "We will deeply analyse our early-game vulnerabilities and implement new, more effective tactics for the matches ahead" .

YWC-Th president, S Johnson also expressed his immense satisfaction with the team's stellar performance in the group stage.

Johnson noted that he had always been highly optimistic about the team's prospects given the immense potential of the players, adding that the squad have truly lived up to expectations.

Looking ahead, he assured that the club management will extend all possible support to elevate the team's performance in the final round, with the ultimate goal of securing promotion to the top-tier Indian Women's League next season.

Furthermore, he urged the departments concerned to step forward with necessary assistance, while also appealing to the people of Manipur for their continuous support and encouragement as the team chase National glory.

The apex body of football in the State, All Manipur Football Association also congratulated the team on making it to the final round .