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Author: Rana Das

  • Kerala Blasters Midfielder Mohammed Azhar Eyes Super Cup Glory for AFC Champions League Two Spot

    Kerala Blasters Midfielder Mohammed Azhar Eyes Super Cup Glory for AFC Champions League Two Spot

    Mohammed Azhar, the 22-year-old central midfielder for Kerala Blasters FC, has voiced his team’s determination to win the AIFF Super Cup 2025 to secure a coveted playoff berth in the 2025-26 AFC Champions League Two (ACL2). In an exclusive interview with a leading sports outlet on October 28, 2025, Azhar stated: “Our goal is to win the Super Cup and claim that AFC spot. That’s what we want to achieve.” The young star, who has been a squad regular under new coach David Catalán, emphasized the tournament’s importance as a redemption arc following a challenging 2024-25 season.

    Kerala Blasters’ Rocky Road: From Stahre’s Exit to Catalán’s Arrival
    Kerala Blasters handed the reins to Swedish coach Mikael Stahre ahead of the 2024-25 ISL season, signing high-profile players like Noah Sadaoui and Kwame Peprah. However, results were dismal: a group-stage exit in the Durand Cup and a mid-table ISL finish (8th place with 26 points from 22 games). Stahre and his support staff were sacked in December 2024 after just 12 ISL matches (3 wins, 7 losses), with interim coaches Tomasz Tchorz and T.G. Purushothaman stabilizing the ship to end the league on a high note.

    Catalán, appointed in early 2025, inherited a squad blending youth (like Azhar and his twin brother Mohammed Aimen) with veterans (Adrián Luna, Hormipam Ruivah). Despite beating East Bengal 2-1 in the Kaling Super Cup opener, Kerala suffered a humiliating 0-4 loss to Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the quarterfinals, exiting via the reserves’ bench. Azhar, who featured in 16 ISL games last season (2 goals, 1 assist), reflected: “Last season taught us resilience. Now, with Catalán’s tactics, we’re sharper.”

    Super Cup Ambitions: Path to AFC Glory
    The Super Cup, starting October 30, 2025, in Goa, offers Kerala a direct ACL2 playoff ticket to the winners—crucial for continental exposure and potential revenue. Grouped with Rajasthan United (Oct 30), Mumbai City FC (Nov 3), and Punjab FC (Nov 6), Catalán’s side eyes a top-two finish. Azhar, a Kerala Blasters academy product since 2018, debuted in the 2023 Durand Cup and scored his senior goal in a 7-0 rout of CISF Protectors. Part of the 27-man squad announced on October 25, he added: “Winning here isn’t just about silverware—it’s our gateway to Asia. The fans deserve that dream.”

    Kerala’s revamped roster includes:
    Goalkeepers: Sachin Suresh, Kamaljit Singh, Alsabith S.T., Muhammad Jaseen M.
    Defenders: Hormipam Ruivah, Bikash Yumnam, Milos Drinčić, Dušan Lagator, Naocha Singh, Aibanbha Dohling, Muhammed Saheef, Sandeep Singh.

    Midfielders: Vibin Mohanan, Danish Farooq, Freddy Lallawmawma, Adrián Luna, Mohammed Azhar, Yoihenba Meitei, Ebindas Yesudasan, Korou Singh, Mohammed Aimen, Renthlei Lalthanmawia.

    Forwards: Kwame Peprah, Jesús Jiménez, Noah Sadaoui, Sreekuttan M.S., Ishan Pandita.
    With ACL2 playoffs offering group-stage entry against Asian powerhouses, Azhar’s vision aligns with the club’s “Manjappada” ethos. Matches stream live on FanCode and Star Sports. Can Kerala conquer the Super Cup and unlock Asia? Azhar believes so—watch this space.

  • Indian Footballer Kalidas Signs With Bosnian Club NK Međugorje

    Indian Footballer Kalidas Signs With Bosnian Club NK Međugorje

    New Delhi, October 25: Indian football continues to make quiet but significant strides on the global stage. In a big development for the sport, young Indian midfielder Kalidas Naji from Kerala has signed with NK Međugorje, a club competing in the Bosnian third-tier league.

    The teenager, who has already spent time playing for several youth sides in Bosnia, earned his contract after an impressive trial stint with the club. His hard work and adaptability in European football impressed the coaches and management, leading to his official signing.

    This move is seen as a major opportunity for the budding midfielder, as playing in Europe, even at the lower tiers, provides valuable exposure and experience against physically stronger and technically disciplined players.

    Indian football fans and analysts have welcomed the news, calling it a positive sign for the growing presence of Indian youngsters abroad. Kerala, in particular, has produced several promising talents in recent years, and Naji’s progression could inspire more players from the state to pursue opportunities overseas.

    The signing comes at a time when Indian football authorities are emphasizing grassroots development and encouraging players to explore foreign training environments. While NK Međugorje is not among Europe’s elite clubs, the platform it offers could help Naji further sharpen his skills and potentially climb higher up the football ladder in the coming years.

    For Indian football, every such signing matters, as it reflects both the ambition of its young players and the slow but steady recognition of their potential abroad.

  • BCCI Condemns Indore Incident, Vows Stronger Security

    BCCI Condemns Indore Incident, Vows Stronger Security

    New Delhi, October 25: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has issued an official statement condemning the incident that occurred in Indore involving Australian cricketers. BCCI Honorary Secretary Devajit Saikia described the episode as a “deeply regrettable and isolated incident,” stressing that India has always been recognized worldwide for its warmth, hospitality, and care towards guests.

    The Official Statement

    In his statement, Saikia said:

    “This is a deeply regrettable and isolated incident. India has always been known for its warmth, hospitality, and care towards all guests. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards such acts. We appreciate the swift and effective action taken by the Madhya Pradesh Police in apprehending the accused. The law will take its due course to ensure justice is served. We will also review our existing safety protocols and strengthen them further, if necessary, to ensure such incidents are not repeated.”

    The words underline BCCI’s strong stance on player safety and its intent to reinforce India’s reputation as a safe and welcoming sporting destination.

    India’s Reputation at Stake

    India has long been considered one of the world’s most passionate cricketing nations and a leading host of international tournaments. Players from across the globe have often praised the country’s hospitality. This incident, therefore, has raised concerns over the safety of visiting teams and has the potential to affect India’s global sporting image if not addressed effectively.

    Swift Action by Police

    The Madhya Pradesh Police acted promptly in apprehending the accused, a move that has been welcomed by both the BCCI and cricket fans. State authorities have assured that stringent measures will be put in place to ensure the safety of all foreign players and teams touring India.

    Reviewing Safety Protocols

    The BCCI emphasized that player safety is of the highest priority. The board confirmed that it will be reviewing all existing safety protocols, identifying potential loopholes, and reinforcing security arrangements at stadiums, hotels, and public areas frequented by international teams.

    Cricket analysts pointed out that India, as the host of major events like the Indian Premier League (IPL) and international bilateral series, must ensure top-notch security not only for Indian players but also for overseas cricketers who draw millions of fans to the sport.

    Reactions from Fans and Experts

    News of the incident quickly went viral on social media, with fans expressing outrage and disappointment. Many argued that even a single isolated episode could tarnish India’s reputation in the cricketing world. Others appreciated the BCCI’s quick response and the police’s swift action, saying such steps would restore confidence among international players.

    Zero-Tolerance Policy

    The BCCI’s reference to a zero-tolerance policy reflects its determination to prevent similar events. The statement also signals that, if necessary, additional resources will be allocated to boost security systems in coordination with local law enforcement agencies.

    While the Indore incident is being seen as an unfortunate one-off, it has placed the spotlight firmly on the importance of player security during international tours. The BCCI’s strong condemnation, coupled with swift police action and assurances of tighter protocols, is expected to reassure not only the Australian team but also future visiting sides.

    India, often hailed as the heart of world cricket, will be keen to ensure that such incidents remain isolated and do not overshadow the nation’s legacy of hospitality and sporting excellence.

  • East Bengal Exude Confidence Ahead of AIFF Super Cup 2025

    East Bengal Exude Confidence Ahead of AIFF Super Cup 2025

    Goa, October 23: East Bengal FC are heading into the AIFF Super Cup 2025 with renewed confidence and determination, as reflected in the words of their head coach Óscar Bruzón and senior midfielder Souvik Chakrabarti.

    Speaking at the pre-tournament press conference, head coach Bruzón said there was a clear sense of belief within the camp:

    “There is a palpable mood of confidence in the camp. The team is fiercely determined and confident to deliver positive performances in the Super Cup. We showed a good brand of football in the Durand Cup and the IFA Shield, considering we have many new players in the squad and that team cohesion had to be settled. Now we are united in our pursuit of on-field excellence, and eager to prove that we are capable of competing neck and neck with the best Indian clubs again.”

    The Spaniard’s comments reflect East Bengal’s intent to establish themselves as serious contenders after showing signs of promise in recent competitions.

    Souvik Chakrabarti: “Fully focused on Dempo clash”

    Echoing his coach’s words, East Bengal’s experienced midfielder Souvik Chakrabarti underlined the team’s readiness and focus:

    “We are fully prepared for the Super Cup. We have shown gradual progress from the Durand Cup to the IFA Shield. Everyone in the team is fully focused on the first match against Dempo.”

    The emphasis on steady progress suggests the Red and Gold brigade are eyeing consistency, something they have struggled with in previous seasons.

    Aiming for Glory

    The AIFF Super Cup presents East Bengal with a golden opportunity to measure themselves against the top clubs in India. With a blend of new signings and experienced campaigners, the squad appears motivated to rekindle the club’s glorious past and give fans reasons to cheer.

    The Road Ahead

    As the tournament kicks off in Goa, all eyes will be on East Bengal’s opening fixture against Dempo. With confidence soaring in the camp, the Kolkata giants aim to back their words with performances on the pitch.