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Category: Football

  • Lionel Messi: Fans from Different States Frame ‘Messi God,’ A Scene at Gate No. 2?

    Lionel Messi: Fans from Different States Frame ‘Messi God,’ A Scene at Gate No. 2?

    Argentine football legend Lionel Messi is set to set foot in India this time. Over three days, he will visit four cities Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi to meet the country’s football fans in person. From stadium events and celebrity meet-and-greets to fashion shows and exhibition matches, the entire tour promises to be packed with excitement, offering fans a major attraction at every moment.

    ‘মেসি ভগবান’কে ফ্রেম বন্দি করতে ভিন্ন রাজ্যের বাসিন্দারা, ২ নং গেটে একী কান্ড?

    The ticket redemption process began at the end of last week. On the final day, fans coming to redeem their tickets displayed remarkable enthusiasm. Around the Yuva Bharati Stadium in Kolkata, Messi fans from different states were spotted gathering.

    On this day, Argentine jerseys with Messi’s picture and the text “Welcome Messi” were being sold. Additionally, jerseys featuring East Bengal along with Argentina were available for ₹300. One seller stated, “Jersey sales have been quite good over the past few days. With Messi coming, we hope sales will increase even more on the day of the event.”

    lionel-messi-india-goat-tour-2025

    A buyer mentioned, “Messi is our god. To see him in person and wear his jersey—both are a huge privilege for me. We can’t miss this.”

    Among the fans redeeming tickets, there were couples who were not residents of Kolkata. A pair from Odisha said, “We are Messi fans. We came here just to see our god in person.”

    Fans like Sadanon from Manipur and Mounten and Mira from Assam also caught attention. A group of 30 friends came from Shillong. One of them, Danny, said, “Messi is the best among all footballers. If he had stayed a little longer in the stadium, our joy would have been even greater.”

    lionel-messi-goat-tour-2025

    In front of Gate No. 2 at Yuva Bharati, Andruman from Kerala was selling Messi stickers. He said, “I have been collecting these stickers for several years. I even designed some of them myself. Since Messi’s Kerala tour was canceled, I came to Kolkata. Messi has been my favorite footballer since childhood.”

    lionel-messi-goat-tour-2025

    Even before Messi’s arrival, Kolkata was already buzzing with Messi fever. Football fans were seen at every corner, eagerly waiting to see their beloved star, holding jerseys and stickers in hand.

  • Lionel Messi : Packed 12.5-Hour Visit to Tilottoma, What Special Surprises Await?

    Lionel Messi : Packed 12.5-Hour Visit to Tilottoma, What Special Surprises Await?

    Kolkata is once again gearing up for a football extravaganza. Fourteen years have passed since that memorable night in 2011 when a young Lionel Messi took the field for Argentina against Venezuela at the Youth Stadium, but back then, the title of “World Champion” was not yet part of his name. Times have changed. This time, Kolkata will host none other than the World Cup-winning captain, MLS Cup-winning Inter Miami leader – Lionel Messi.

    তিলোত্তমায় মেসির সাড়ে ১২ ঘণ্টার সফরে ঠাসা কর্মসূচি, কি থাকছে বিশেষ চমক?

     
    Messi is set to land in the city at 1:30 a.m. on Friday. From that moment, Kolkata will be swept up in excitement. After a brief rest at his hotel, his tightly scheduled itinerary begins – not a single moment will be wasted, and his fans might not even sleep that day.

    Meet & Greet and Virtual Statue Unveiling

    The day kicks off at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday with a Meet & Greet event. From 10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m., the virtual unveiling of LM10’s statue will take place. Following that, he will head to the Youth Stadium, where stars will be arriving one after another:

    11:30 a.m.: Shah Rukh Khan

    12:00 p.m.: Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee

    Legendary cricketer Sourav Ganguly will also be present

    A special session of football, celebrity interaction, and felicitation will run from 12:00 p.m. to 12:30 p.m. After that, Messi will head to the airport and fly to Hyderabad at 2:00 p.m. In all, it will be just 12.5 hours – but an emotionally charged visit.

    Unprecedented Security Arrangements

    With the presence of the Chief Minister, Shah Rukh Khan, and Sourav Ganguly, security measures are being taken to the highest level. Around 2,000 police personnel will be deployed under the leadership of the Bidhannagar Police Commissionerate. Inspectors, SIs, and constables from various parts of the city will be on duty, alongside the RAF. Strict traffic control and special parking guidelines have been prepared.

    The city has seen legends like Pelé, Maradona, and Messi before, yet the excitement of his return is unique. The young talent of 2011 has now become a legend. Once again, Kolkata will witness history, and the city will rediscover itself amid the frenzy of Messi mania.

  • Lionel Messi: How to Watch the ‘Messi Magic’ From Home? Full Streaming Details

    Lionel Messi: How to Watch the ‘Messi Magic’ From Home? Full Streaming Details

    Kolkata is celebrating like a festival. The reason? Only a few hours left before Lionel Messi arrives. When the greatest star in football history is about to set foot in the city, excitement naturally spreads across all of Bengal. After 2011, Messi is coming to India again — but this time it’s even more special, because now he is World Cup winning Messi.

    স্টেডিয়াম নয় ঘরে বসে কী ভাবে দেখবেন ‘মেসি ম্যাজিক’? রইল বিস্তারিত

     
    The football magician will land in Kolkata around 1 AM on 12 December (technically 13 December as per the calendar). After that, his schedule is so packed that the city seems to be waiting breathlessly for every single step he takes.
     

    Messi’s Main Event in Kolkata — 13 December

    9:30 AM — Special programme at his hotel with sponsors

    Around 10 AM — Departs for the Salt Lake Stadium (Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan)

    At the stadium, he will attend the Mohun Bagan ‘Messi’ All-Stars vs Diamond Harbour ‘Messi’ All-Stars match, which he will watch from the ground

    After the match, he will interact with the players of both teams

    Later, from the hotel, he will virtually inaugurate a 70-foot statue of Messi

    By afternoon, he will fly to Hyderabad

    On 14 December, he will take part in various events in Mumbai, and on 15 December, in Delhi. During the tour, he is also expected to meet Shah Rukh Khan and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

    Didn’t get tickets? Don’t worry! Where to watch Messi?

    Even though many people could not get tickets to the stadium, the good news is that Messi’s entire tour can be enjoyed right from home.

    ✔ Messi’s Kolkata tour will be streamed live on the Sony LIV app and website.
    (A Sony LIV subscription is required.)

    ✔ Selected events of the GOAT India Tour 2025 will also be broadcast on—

    Prasar Bharati YouTube channel

    DD Sports TV channel

    Preparations are at full swing everywhere from Kolkata airport to the Salt Lake Stadium. The city’s streets are filled with Messi posters, fans singing, flags and blue-and-white lights reflecting Argentina’s colours. Many say that seeing Messi once in their lifetime is their greatest dream come true. Kolkata, the football-loving city, feels like it has once again transformed into the football capital of the world. Just a few more hours — and India will see its dream man. All of Bengal waits eagerly for the Messi Magic.

  • Lionel Messi : Mohun Bagan Foreigners Excited, But Coach Lobera Stays Silent About His Former Student

    Lionel Messi : Mohun Bagan Foreigners Excited, But Coach Lobera Stays Silent About His Former Student

    Kolkata is currently at the heart of football frenzy. The city is buzzing with one name Lionel Messi. Long before the Argentine superstar’s arrival, excitement has been building among fans and ISL footballers alike. That wave of enthusiasm has swept into the Mohun Bagan Super Giant training ground as well.

    মেসির খোঁজে বাগানের এই দুই বিদেশি, প্রাক্তন ছাত্রকে নিয়ে চুপ গুরু লোবেরা

     

    On Thursday, after the training session, Australian World Cupper Jason Cummings jokingly asked the reporters waiting outside, “Has Messi arrived already?” Many of his teammates also echoed the same curiosity. The reason is simple—Messi is expected to stay in the same hotel where the foreign players of Mohun Bagan currently reside. Hearing this, another Australian, Dimitri Petratos, laughed and said, “Wish I could share a room with Messi!”

    On the same day, Mohun Bagan officially began a new chapter under Spanish coach Sergio Lobera. He conducted a rigorous 90-minute training session on his very first day. However, Liston Colaco and Sahal Abdul Samad were absent due to personal reasons, while Apuiya missed training because of fever.

    Interestingly, while the players were buzzing with Messi mania, Lobera remained completely calm. Having been the assistant coach at Barcelona in 2012, he once coached Messi himself. But when asked about his former student’s visit to Kolkata, the new Mohun Bagan head coach chose to remain tight-lipped.

    The long wait is finally coming to an end, as Lionel Messi is set to arrive in Kolkata just after midnight on 11 December. The city is preparing to welcome the World Cup-winning captain with grand celebrations.

    On Saturday, the excitement in Kolkata will reach its peak as the Youth Bharati Stadium prepares to host one of the biggest football events in the city’s recent history. Amid growing speculation about whether Shah Rukh Khan will share the stage with Messi, the Bollywood icon confirmed the news on Thursday.
    On social media, Shah Rukh wrote: “No plans with the Knights this time in Kolkata. The day belongs entirely to Messi. See you on the 13th at Salt Lake Stadium.”

    This means fans will witness both Messi and Shah Rukh on the same stage—an early Christmas gift for the people of Bengal. Also expected to attend the event are Sourav Ganguly, Leander Paes, and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, along with several other dignitaries.

    Messi’s arrival is more than just a football moment—it is an emotion, a celebration deeply intertwined with Kolkata’s culture, passion, and history.

  • Super Cup 2025 Final Preview: Unbeaten East Bengal FC Eye Return to Glory Against Defending Champions FC Goa

    Super Cup 2025 Final Preview: Unbeaten East Bengal FC Eye Return to Glory Against Defending Champions FC Goa

    The stage is set for a thrilling finale to the AIFF Super Cup 2025, as East Bengal FC prepare to face defending champions FC Goa in the title clash at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda (Kickoff: 7:30 PM).

    With a coveted spot in the 2026–27 AFC competitions on the line, the winners of the last two editions—East Bengal FC in 2024 and FC Goa in 2025—are determined to reclaim the Super Cup crown and become the first Indian club this season to secure continental qualification.

    Under Spanish head coach Óscar Bruzón, East Bengal have shown steady improvement as the tournament progressed. After a nervy 2–2 opening draw against Dempo SC, they bounced back emphatically with a commanding 4–0 victory over Chennaiyin FC. A composed 0–0 draw against arch-rivals Mohun Bagan SG, in a match they largely controlled, ensured the Red & Golds topped Group A and advanced to the semifinals.

    In the first semifinal, East Bengal defeated Punjab FC 3–1 with goals from Mohammed Rashid, Kevin Sibille, and captain Saul Crespo, securing their place in the Super Cup final for the third time after appearances in 2018 and 2024.

    Unbeaten so far, the Kolkata giants have scored nine goals—more than any other team in the competition. However, they will be without head coach Bruzón on the touchline for the final after he received two yellow cards and was sent off just before halftime in the semifinal.

    Manolo Márquez’s FC Goa, meanwhile, are striving to become the first club to successfully defend the Super Cup and clinch their third title, having previously won in 2019 and 2025.

    The Gaurs progressed from Group B with wins over Jamshedpur FC (2–0) and Inter Kashi (3–0), despite a setback against NorthEast United FC (1–2). They then edged Mumbai City FC 2–1 in the second semifinal, courtesy of quickfire first-half goals from Brison Fernandes and David Timor.

    At the pre-match press conference, East Bengal assistant coach Bino George stated:
    “East Bengal never enter a tournament just to participate. We always compete to win. FC Goa are the defending champions and we respect them, but we have prepared rigorously for this day and will give everything to bring the trophy back to Kolkata.”

    Captain Saul Crespo added:
    “Our preparations have been excellent and the team bonding is visible to everyone. We have one last hurdle ahead of us, and we will give our all to execute our game plan to perfection.”

    The match will be streamed live on JioHotstar and broadcast on Star Sports Khel.

  • Lionel Messi Might Not Play in FIFA World Cup! What Did Argentine Star Say?

    Lionel Messi Might Not Play in FIFA World Cup! What Did Argentine Star Say?

    There’s still uncertainty about whether Lionel Messi will play in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Argentine superstar himself has left things unclear. In an interview with ESPN, “LM10” stated that while he is hopeful about participating, he has not yet made a final decision, and in the worst-case scenario, he might end up watching the matches live from home.

    বিশ্বকাপ খেলবেন না মেসি! একী বললেন আর্জেন্টাইন তারকা?

     

    Messi said, “I’ve said before that I’m hopeful about playing in next year’s World Cup. But if things go really badly, I might just watch the games from home. Even that would be special for me. The World Cup is special for everyone, especially for the participating countries. And we (Argentina) experience it differently when it happens.”

    Having joined Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami after leaving Europe in 2023, experts believe Messi can adapt to the weather conditions in the host countries—USA, Canada, and Mexico. However, even if Messi doesn’t play, his teammates have enough strength to try to retain Argentina’s title.

    He added, “Everyone in the Argentina team is a champion. They all have a strong mentality and a hunger for more victories. It’s contagious. You can see it in their training—they give everything they have.”

    Messi also emphasized the crucial role of coach Lionel Scaloni and his staff in maintaining a healthy and strong team environment. He revealed that he stays in constant communication with Scaloni regarding participation in the World Cup. Messi said, “He is ready to play me in any position I prefer. Our relationship is very trusting. We can openly discuss anything.”

    Overall, Messi’s participation in the 2026 World Cup remains uncertain, leaving fans in suspense. Meanwhile, according to Indian time, the draw for the upcoming World Cup is scheduled to take place Friday night, heightening anticipation for fans worldwide.

  • East Bengal Storm Into Super Cup Final With Commanding 3–1 Win Over Punjab FC

    East Bengal Storm Into Super Cup Final With Commanding 3–1 Win Over Punjab FC

    East Bengal booked their place in the AIFF Super Cup final for the third time with a composed and clinical 3–1 victory over Punjab FC at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda, Goa, on Thursday, December 4, 2025. The triumph also marks the club’s second major final of the season, following their narrow loss to Mohun Bagan SG in the IFA Shield.

    The Kolkata giants started brightly and took the lead in the 12th minute through Mohamad Bashim Rashid. A rehearsed short-corner routine saw Miguel Ferreira’s delivery only partially cleared, and the ball fell invitingly to Rashid at the edge of the area. The Maldivian midfielder controlled superbly before drilling a low shot that slipped under goalkeeper Muheet Shabir’s glove—his first goal for the club.

    Punjab FC responded with urgency and were rewarded in the 34th minute. A mishap in the East Bengal box saw Ricky Shabong’s clearing header rebound off Bipin Singh’s arm, prompting the referee to award a penalty. Daniel Ramirez converted confidently, sending Prabhsukhan Singh Gill the wrong way to level the score.

    But East Bengal regained control at a crucial moment, striking just before the interval. Deep into first-half stoppage time, Miguel Ferreira delivered another pinpoint corner, and defender Kevin Sibille rose highest to nod home a powerful header. The goal sparked jubilant celebrations, which also saw head coach Oscar Bruzon receive a second yellow card for overexuberance.

    After the break, East Bengal tightened their grip on the contest. Bipin Singh and Hiroshi Ibusuki both came close to extending the lead, but it was captain Saul Crespo who delivered the decisive blow in the 71st minute. Once again, Ferreira was the architect—slaloming past multiple defenders before laying the ball off for Crespo, who placed a tidy left-footed finish into the bottom corner.

    Punjab FC struggled to break down East Bengal’s disciplined defensive structure in the closing stages. Their best late opportunity came when Ramirez threaded a pass to Bede Amarachi Osuji, but the Nigerian forward’s effort was comfortably saved by Gill.

    East Bengal nearly added further gloss to the scoreline when Ferreira danced past defenders again, only to fire narrowly wide. Nevertheless, the Red and Gold brigade held firm until the final whistle, celebrating a well-earned spot in yet another major final.

    With momentum and confidence on their side, Oscar Bruzon’s men now turn their focus to lifting the coveted AIFF Super Cup trophy.

  • Super Cup 2025 : FC Goa vs Mumbai City FC Semi-Final Preview

    Super Cup 2025 : FC Goa vs Mumbai City FC Semi-Final Preview

    The race for a place in the AIFF Super Cup 2025 final reaches boiling point on Thursday, December 4, 2025, with a high-stakes double-header in Fatorda, Goa. East Bengal FC face Punjab FC in the first semi-final at 16:00 IST, followed by defending champions FC Goa taking on Mumbai City FC at 20:00 IST at the PJN Stadium. Both matches will be broadcast on Star Sports Khel and streamed live on JioHotstar.

    FC Goa vs Mumbai City FC (20:00 IST)

    The second semi-final brings together two teams with contrasting momentum but identical ambitions. Mumbai City FC arrive after a long training block without competitive fixtures, while FC Goa come into the game battle-hardened from their AFC Champions League Two campaign. Beyond a spot in the final, both teams are fighting for a route back to continental football.

    East Bengal, Punjab FC Set for Blockbuster Super Cup Semi Final

    Mumbai City FC: “Heart, Character, Commitment”

    Head coach Petr Kratky expressed confidence in his squad’s preparation:

    “I’m very happy with the work we’ve done over the last few weeks. Goa are a very good team and in full rhythm because of the ACL Two, but we’ve prepared as best as possible.”

    This is Mumbai City’s third consecutive Super Cup semi-final, and midfielder Brandon Fernandes is targeting his first-ever final with the club.

    “It’s a massive semi-final for us. We want to reach the final and return to AFC competition — that’s our motivation.”

    Will Joy Gupta Play Super Cup 2025 Semifinal?

    Kratky emphasized Mumbai City’s attacking identity:

    “We want to play aggressive, attacking football — the style Mumbai is known for. We are building an environment where every player is ready and important. What matters is heart, character, and commitment.”

    Facing his former team, Fernandes added:

    “The past is the past. Tomorrow is about the present. Goa is my former club, but my focus is on helping Mumbai win.”

    FC Goa: Battle-Hardened but Weary

    FC Goa head coach Manolo Márquez acknowledged that his squad is navigating a unique situation:

    East Bengal coach Oscar Bruzon Weighs Defensive Options Ahead of Semifinal

    “We are training more and playing more because of the AFC Champions League Two, but the long gaps between matches make it mentally demanding. Still, strong matches are better preparation than training alone.”

    Defender Ronney Wilson Kharbudon, who made his debut against Al Nassr earlier this season, echoed his coach’s sentiments:

    “Playing such matches helps every player improve. Training has been good since we returned from Iraq. We’re focused and want to reach the final.”

    A Fixture Known for Goals

    Whenever FC Goa and Mumbai City FC meet, entertainment is guaranteed — 16 goals in their last five meetings. Mumbai City enjoyed a 10-game unbeaten run against Goa before the Gaurs ended it with a 3–1 win in Mumbai last February.

    Márquez expects another high-quality encounter:

    “Every competition is different. Mumbai City are one of the biggest teams in the ISL, with strong foreigners and national team players. Both teams like attacking, possession football. It should be a good match, but in football, you never know.”

  • East Bengal, Punjab FC Set for Blockbuster Super Cup Semi Final

    East Bengal, Punjab FC Set for Blockbuster Super Cup Semi Final

    The race to reach the AIFF Super Cup 2025 final intensifies on Thursday, December 4, 2025, as four heavyweights East Bengal FC, Punjab FC, FC Goa and Mumbai City FC gear up for a high-stakes double-header semi-final at the PJN Stadium, Fatorda, Goa.

    The action begins at 16:00 IST with a clash between 2024 champions East Bengal FC and first-time semi-finalists Punjab FC. Later, at 20:00 IST, defending champions FC Goa face Mumbai City FC. Both matches will be broadcast on Star Sports Khel and streamed on JioHotstar.

    Will Joy Gupta Play Super Cup 2025 Semifinal?

    Semi-final 1: East Bengal FC vs Punjab FC (16:00 IST)

    Both teams arrive with momentum after navigating two of the competition’s toughest groups.
    East Bengal sealed their spot with a gritty 0–0 draw against rivals Mohun Bagan SG, while Punjab FC advanced after a dramatic penalty shoot-out win over Bengaluru FC, having produced an identical defensive record with no goals conceded in the group stage.

    Bruzon: “We trust our identity and game model.”

    East Bengal head coach Óscar Bruzón highlighted the long-term preparation behind his team’s campaign:

    “Our preparation has been ongoing for months. We started training in July, played pre-season tournaments, and integrated new players. This helped us build automatisms and collective understanding. We feel mature in what we do, and tomorrow we must bring that onto the pitch.”

    Full-back Jay Gupta also emphasised the team’s motivation:

    “This tournament offers a spot in Asia, something our fans truly deserve. We’re fully prepared and excited to get on the pitch.”

    East Bengal coach Oscar Bruzon Weighs Defensive Options Ahead of Semifinal

    Respect for Punjab’s defence

    Punjab FC’s defensive solidity has been one of the stories of the tournament. When asked about possible weaknesses, Bruzón maintained a respectful but cautious tone:

    “We have huge respect for Punjab. They haven’t conceded once. They’re aggressive, compact, and strong in transitions. We expect changes from them — new players, substitutions, maybe even a different system.”

    On handling pressure and expectations from East Bengal’s massive fan base, Bruzón added:

    “At East Bengal, if you don’t understand what it means to be part of this club, the job becomes difficult. We play with hunger and commitment. Thinking about the final or Asia now would distract us.”

    Punjab FC: Calm, confident, and ready

    Punjab FC head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis expressed confidence in his squad’s preparation:

    “After qualifying, the players got a deserved break. Then we had three and a half weeks of full training and friendlies to fine-tune the team.”

    Midfielder Leon Augustine echoed the positive mood:

    “We’ve worked hard and had a good run in the group stage. The long training period helped. There’s no pressure on us — East Bengal are a good team, but we’re ready.”

    Dilmperis on East Bengal and knockout football

    Despite East Bengal defeating Punjab twice last ISL season — including a 4–2 comeback victory in Kolkata — Dilmperis remained measured:

    “East Bengal are strong in every department. We respect them.”

    On Punjab’s defensive focus, he added:

    “A clean sheet is crucial in knockout football — it helps in extra time or penalties. We’d love to have possession, but we’re ready for any scenario.”

  • Will Joy Gupta Play Super Cup 2025 Semifinal?

    Will Joy Gupta Play Super Cup 2025 Semifinal?

    Super Cup 2025 semifinal is just a night away. In Goa, East Bengal is set to face Panagiotis Dilmpers’ strong Punjab FC. Notably, last month Punjab secured their semifinal spot by defeating the mighty Bengaluru FC in their final group-stage match. In the tie-breaker, this ISL side got the better of Sunil Chhetri’s team. So Oscar Bruzón knew well in advance that this clash would be anything but easy. That is why, right after a short break, the East Bengal coach resumed training in full swing.

    Initially, Bino George supervised the training sessions, but soon after arriving in the city, the Spanish coach took full charge. After weeks of preparation in Kolkata, the Red and Gold brigade finally arrived in Goa. However, in the midst of all this, one of the team’s most reliable defenders, Joy Gupta, suffered an injury. This undoubtedly sparked concern within the camp. As a result, over the past few days, the Indian defender has mainly been working on his fitness from the sidelines. If he is unavailable for the upcoming semifinal, it could significantly impact the team’s performance.

    There is no need to state that again. Still, the management’s top priority was to get him fully fit before the match. According to the latest update, during the final training session on the eve of the semifinal, the national team defender was seen practicing with the main squad in high spirits. This clearly indicates that he is much fitter than before. However, whether Oscar will include him in the starting XI remains the big question, and everyone’s attention will be on that decision.

    On the other hand, Dilmpers’ Punjab FC is determined to beat East Bengal and secure their place in the final. After completing preparations in their home city, the opposition camp arrived in Goa a few days ago. The Greek coach has prepared the team keeping East Bengal’s strengths and weaknesses in mind.