Among the eight teams competing in the Indian Women’s League (IWL), Sesa FA is the debutant, the fifth Goan club, and the first after a two-season gap. IWL is starting on 20th December. The team will begin their campaign on Saturday against fellow promoted side Garhwal United at the National Centre of Excellence in Kolkata.

The side has roped in two experienced foreigners, Tanzanian defender Diana Antwi and Kenyan forward Omita Bertha, and they are likely to be the key footballers to bolster the team’s performance in the League. Both have represented the IWL sides Sethu FC and Gokulam Kerala FC, respectively. Along with them, eight Goan talents are also part of the squad, and the rest of the squad is comprised of players from across the country, many of whom have represented national teams at various age groups.

Team’s chief coach, former India international Nicholas Rodrigues, sounded optimistic despite her girls taking part in the League for the first time. Rodrigues disclosed his key purpose is to instill a sense of belief among the girls. The coach believes that if there is steadfast support, then the results will follow.

While Sesa will face tough challenges from the experienced IWL campaigners, Rodrigues promises the players who are already excited to have earned qualification for the elite IWL are ready to deliver their best.