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Category: Football

  • East Bengal coach Oscar Bruzon Weighs Defensive Options Ahead of Semifinal

    East Bengal coach Oscar Bruzon Weighs Defensive Options Ahead of Semifinal

    East Bengal Football Club did not have a great start to this year’s Super Cup. In their very first group-stage match, they were held to a draw by a comparatively weaker Dempo Sports Club. Sameer Naik’s boys put up an exceptional fight against the Red and Golds, surprising everyone. Because of that early setback, the Kolkata giants fell slightly behind in the group standings. However, after defeating Clifford Miranda’s Chennaiyin FC by a big margin in the second match, the Torch Brigade revived their chances of qualifying for the knockouts. In the final group game, they had to face their arch-rivals, Mohun Bagan Super Giant.

    Although that match ended in a draw after full time, East Bengal advanced to the semifinals thanks to goal difference. Naturally, supporters were quite pleased. After a long break, the semifinals are finally scheduled to be held tomorrow, where Oscar Bruzón’s side will face Panagiotis Dilmpeleris’ Punjab FC. Punjab had already stunned a strong team like Bengaluru FC earlier to secure their semifinal berth, so everyone knows this will be no easy contest.

    That is why players like Miguel Figuera and Anwar Ali had begun intense training weeks in advance. But just a few days before the semifinal, worrying news emerged—reliable defender Joy Gupta picked up an injury during practice. He was seen mostly on the sidelines afterward. Oscar is fully aware of how much Joy’s absence in such a crucial match could benefit the opposition, so he had already begun preparing alternative plans.

    According to various reports, if Joy Gupta is unable to play this match, Oscar Bruzón may turn to another Indian defender, Lalchungnunga, as his replacement. Additionally, Bengali footballer Prabhat Lakra is also being considered as an option. However, in Wednesday’s training session ahead of the semifinal, Joy Gupta looked quite lively. If everything goes well, East Bengal’s head coach might go ahead with his original plan and include him in the starting lineup.

  • Bad news for Argentina fans, but a debut awaits this footballer!

    Bad news for Argentina fans, but a debut awaits this footballer!

    World champions Argentina are set to face Angola in an upcoming international friendly during the next break. Expectations were high after Lionel Scaloni announced his squad, but before the match, bad news arrived for the fans — Enzo Fernández, one of the team’s most reliable midfielders, has been ruled out due to injury.

    Argentina will take on Angola on November 14, but about a week before the game, the Argentine Football Association confirmed Enzo’s injury. The Chelsea star is expected to need some time to recover, meaning Scaloni’s side will have to make do without him for this month’s friendly fixtures.

    In Enzo’s absence, the Argentine management has made a change to the squad, calling up Kevin Mac Allister for the first time in his career. Kevin is the elder brother of Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister. The 28-year-old currently plays as a defender for Union Saint-Gilloise in Belgium.

    After receiving his first national team call-up, Kevin expressed his excitement, saying: “I found out about it two hours before our match yesterday. Tomorrow, I’ll be flying to Alicante to join the national team. This is my first time, and I know I didn’t achieve it alone — it’s thanks to everyone in this dressing room. I want to thank them all.”

    He added: “My family is overjoyed. When I called my wife, she burst into tears. It’s an incredible feeling. Tomorrow, I’ll be taking the first step toward fulfilling a dream.”

    If he gets the chance to wear Argentina’s jersey, Kevin Mac Allister will begin a new chapter in his football journey. While Enzo’s injury is a big setback for the coaching staff, Scaloni sees this as an opportunity to test some fresh faces and explore future prospects for the national team.

    The match will take place in Alicante, Spain, where the world champions will feature a few new names — and among them, the most talked-about is undoubtedly Kevin Mac Allister.

  • Uncertainty Over ISL Worries FC Goa’s Borja Herrera

    Uncertainty Over ISL Worries FC Goa’s Borja Herrera

    Since the start of this season, there has been uncertainty surrounding the Indian Super League (ISL). Although the FSDL has been in charge of the country’s top-division league for the past ten years, they have been largely inactive this season. However, there were hopes that perhaps a new organization might take over the responsibility this time. Accordingly, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) had initially set the deadline for submitting bids as November 5. Later, following multiple requests from different organizations, the federation’s tender committee extended the deadline to November 7.

    আইএসএল নিয়ে ধোঁয়াশা, আশঙ্কায় বোরহা হেরেরা

     

    It was expected that either the FSDL or some other organization might submit a bid, but that did not happen. As a result, the future of India’s top-division league currently remains in deep uncertainty. Notably, since last Friday, Mohun Bagan Super Giant announced that they would suspend team training indefinitely. Additionally, several other top-division clubs have become largely inactive in forming their squads, causing widespread concern.

    Amid this, Spanish star Borja Herrera has publicly expressed his concern on social media. Sharing several photos of himself playing in the FC Goa jersey, he wrote, “In the absence of the ISL (it seems the situation is getting worse every day), we are still enjoying the Champions League even after defeats.” His comments have drawn significant attention from fans.

    Recently, FC Goa played the second leg of the ACL 2 against Al Nassr, where they faced a heavy defeat against João Félix’s side. Despite limited resources, their fighting spirit caught the attention of football enthusiasts. Maintaining continuity in international tournaments, the team also aims to target the Super Cup victory under the guidance of Manolo Márquez.

     

  • In Deep Darkness of ISL, Explosive Statement by Souvik on Social Media!

    In Deep Darkness of ISL, Explosive Statement by Souvik on Social Media!

    The future of India’s top football league, the Indian Super League (ISL), remains uncertain. Although Friday was the last day to submit bids, no organization participated in the tender. As a result, the fate of the ISL now hangs on the federation’s decision.

    গভীর অন্ধকারে ISL, সোশ্যাল মিডিয়ায় ‘বিস্ফোরক’ লাল-হলুদ সৌভিক!

     

    According to an earlier announcement, the deadline for bid submission was set for November 5. However, following requests from multiple organizations, the federation’s tender committee extended the deadline to November 7. Many had hoped that FSDA or another organization might submit a bid, but with no activity on Friday either, widespread concern emerged. Consequently, there is now significant uncertainty about whether the Indian Super League will take place this year.

    In this situation, one of the country’s strongest football clubs, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, has decided to suspend team training indefinitely. Meanwhile, East Bengal’s president Debashish Dutta and secretary Srijanjoy Basu expressed their frustration over the ISL. The pressing question now is: will the ISL happen, and if so, when? Experts believe that if no organization takes responsibility by the end of November, it will be nearly impossible to start the league before late January or February. The federation’s next decision will determine the fate of India’s biggest football league.

    In the midst of this issue, East Bengal player and Bengali footballer Souvik Chakraborty shared his views on social media. He wrote: “The failure of the ISL bid is not just a business failure. For me, it reflects the deep-rooted problems in Indian football administration. This is not just about a league. When the top tier of Indian football is uncertain, it impacts everyone—from grassroots children to the national level. Behind every club and match are players, coaches, support staff, countless fans, and those who work quietly off the field to keep the game alive. Their dedicated efforts deserve clear direction, accountability, and faith in the system that asks them to give their all.

    What we need now is transparency, planning, and unity. Every participant, from players and professionals to fans and those working inside and outside the field, deserves a framework that values their love for the game and helps move football forward. I truly hope this issue is resolved as soon as possible—not just for the top level, but for the future of Indian football. For the love of Indian football.”

  • Mohun Bagan Suspends Senior Team Training Indefinitely Amid ISL Uncertainty

    Mohun Bagan Suspends Senior Team Training Indefinitely Amid ISL Uncertainty

    The future of India’s top football league, the Indian Super League (ISL), now hangs in uncertainty. On Friday, the final day for submitting bids, no organization including Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) participated in the tender. This has left all the league clubs in a state of uncertainty. Meanwhile, according to authorities, Mohun Bagan SG has indefinitely suspended senior team training.

    আইএসএলের অনিশ্চয়তার মধ্যে অনির্দিষ্টকালের জন্য ‘বনধ’ বাগানের অনুশীলন

     

    According to the club’s management, training has been put on hold until there is clarity regarding the league’s future. The club has informed its players that no preparatory activities will begin under the current circumstances. Although the players are currently on leave, the uncertainty has caused concern among fans.

    The federation’s tender committee had initially set November 5 as the deadline for bid submission. After several requests from organizations, it was extended to November 7. While there was hope that FSDL or another organization might submit a bid at the last moment, no interest was shown by Friday.

    Sources revealed that FSDL had sent nearly 200 questions to the federation before submitting a bid. However, due to disagreements over financial obligations and relegation procedures, no final resolution was reached. In particular, the annual payment condition of ₹37.5 crore and the mandatory “championship and relegation” clause created complications between the two parties.

    Fans have grown increasingly concerned about Mohun Bagan’s decision. Although the players are on leave, the suspension of training has heightened anxiety among the green-and-maroon supporters. Some players, including Jamie MacLaren and Jason Cummings, have gone on personal trips.

    The uncertainty surrounding the ISL and Mohun Bagan’s suspension of training has cast a shadow over Indian football fans. Football enthusiasts are now waiting for clarity from the federation and hope for a definitive decision on the league’s future.

  • Sports Minister Announces ‘Big’ News About Calcutta League During Visit to Hockey Stadium

    Sports Minister Announces ‘Big’ News About Calcutta League During Visit to Hockey Stadium

    The newly built Vivekananda Hockey Stadium was officially inaugurated on Thursday from the stage of the International Film Festival. On Friday, West Bengal Sports Minister Aroop Biswas visited the state-of-the-art facility. During his visit, he not only inspected the new venue but also took up a hockey stick and hit a few shots himself. Along with reviewing the stadium, he shared some good news for football fans regarding the Calcutta Football League.

    হকি স্টেডিয়াম পরিদর্শনে এসে কলকাতা লিগ নিয়ে ‘বিরাট’ সুখবর দিলেন ক্রীড়ামন্ত্রী

     

    Built under the initiative of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, the stadium features international-standard synthetic turf. It also includes an Australian-style modern Arden gallery, dedicated warm-up zone, two fully equipped dressing rooms, VIP and VVIP boxes, VIP lounge, umpire and video umpire rooms, and several other modern facilities. Additionally, it houses a doping control and medical room, mixed zone, broadcast and video analysis center, venue operations center, and press corner. The stadium was constructed at a cost of around ₹20,000 crore, making it one of the most advanced sports arenas in the state.

    After touring the stadium, Aroop Biswas said, “Under the Chief Minister’s initiative, two hockey grounds have been built in our state — one in Dumurjala and another within the Salt Lake Stadium complex. We also plan to set up a hockey academy in the future. This is one of the best stadiums in the country. I hope that international matches of the Indian team will be held here soon.”

    However, the minister did not shy away from speaking about Bengal’s sports-related discrimination. In a pointed remark, he said, “Matches are not allotted to Bengal due to political reasons. But the more Bengal is deprived, the stronger we will rise.”

    The Beton Cup is set to begin at this very venue on Saturday. This year, hockey tournaments will not use the East Bengal, Mohun Bagan, or Mohammedan grounds. The minister said, “This year, we are organizing hockey tournaments without using the three major clubs’ grounds. Our discussions are ongoing, and our goal is to bring Calcutta football back to the city’s own fields.”

    Aroop Biswas further added, “From the next season, the Calcutta Football League matches will be played in Kolkata grounds itself. The spirit of the game will return from the districts to the heart of the city.”

    With the inauguration of this new hockey stadium, a new chapter has been added to West Bengal’s sports landscape. Through the efforts of the Chief Minister and the Sports Department, this stadium not only represents international sporting infrastructure but also stands as a symbol of Bengal’s sporting renaissance.

  • Indian Football Under Saturn’s Shadow! The Country’s Top League ISL Faces Uncertainty

    Indian Football Under Saturn’s Shadow! The Country’s Top League ISL Faces Uncertainty

    The future of Indian football’s premier competition, the Indian Super League (ISL), now hangs in the balance. On Friday, the final day for bid submissions, not a single organization — including Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) participated in the tender process. As a result, the fate of the ISL now rests with the upcoming decision of the All India Football Federation (AIFF).

    শনির দৃষ্টিতে ভারতীয় ফুটবল! অনিশ্চিয়তার মুখে দেশের শীর্ষ লিগ

     

    Initially, the deadline for bid submission was set for November 5. However, following requests from multiple organizations, the AIFF’s tender committee extended it to November 7. There was hope that FSDL or some other entity might submit a bid at the last moment. But when no bids came in by Friday, the ISL’s future became even more uncertain.

    Sources revealed that before the bid deadline, FSDL had sent nearly 200 questions to the AIFF’s tender committee, which were answered in detail. Still, major disagreements remained between the two sides on key issues.

    The biggest points of contention were financial obligations and the promotion-relegation system. FSDL raised objections to the requirement of paying ₹37.5 crore annually, but the committee made it clear that this payment was mandatory. Additionally, the federation firmly stated that, as per the Supreme Court’s directive, India’s top-tier football league must include both a championship and a relegation system.

    Meanwhile, clubs and vendors — who usually begin preparations well in advance of the ISL season — now find themselves in limbo. Many in the football community believe that FSDL might only be willing to take up responsibility if it can do so on its own terms.

    This uncertainty has raised pressing questions: Will the ISL take place at all? If so, when? Experts feel that if no organization steps forward by late November, it will be nearly impossible to start the league before the end of January or February. The AIFF’s next move will therefore determine the direction — and perhaps the very survival — of India’s biggest football league.

  • Sunil Chhetri Announces End of International Career, Will Continue Playing for Professional Football

    Sunil Chhetri Announces End of International Career, Will Continue Playing for Professional Football

    A remarkable era of Indian football has come to an end. One of the nation’s greatest footballers, Sunil Chhetri, has officially announced his retirement from international football. However, he will continue to play for Bengaluru FC this season and remain active in domestic competitions for a little longer.

    ক্লাব ফুটবল নিয়ে ‘বিরাট’ ঘোষণার পর অবসর নিলেন সুনীল

     

    Chhetri himself stated, “My journey with the national team is over. But my association with Bengaluru FC continues. If I can perform well this season, I may also bring my professional football career to a close.”

    Earlier this year, Chhetri made a surprising return to the Indian national team for the final round of the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers. With India failing to qualify, he has decided that his international career is officially over.

    “I had returned only to help the team qualify. There was no other reason. If qualification hadn’t been possible, I probably wouldn’t have come back. Now that it’s clear, I have informed the coach and he understands,” Chhetri said.

    After Khalid Jamil took over as head coach, Chhetri communicated his decision. His form with Bengaluru FC—14 goals in the Indian Super League (ISL)—was a major factor behind his recall to the national side. However, during his comeback, he managed just one goal in six matches, ending his international career with 95 goals.

    The 42-year-old legend reflected, “I have no regrets. Not qualifying for the Asian Cup is disappointing, but I have always given my best.” He added, “This season, I aim to score 15 goals and then retire. I want my final years in football to be dignified.”

    Sunil Chhetri is not only a national icon but also one of Asia’s brightest football stars. His retirement marks an emotional moment for Indian football fans, who will now cherish the memories of his extraordinary career while enjoying his remaining season with Bengaluru FC.

  • Kerala Blasters Crash Out as Mumbai City Reach Super Cup 2025 Semifinals

    Kerala Blasters Crash Out as Mumbai City Reach Super Cup 2025 Semifinals

    Kerala Blasters FC Super Cup 2025 journey came to an unfortunate end following a narrow 0–1 defeat to Mumbai City FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda on Thursday. A late own goal in the 88th minute proved costly as the Blasters, who played a large part of the match with ten men, fell just short of reaching the semifinals.

    Head coach David Català made one change to the starting lineup, bringing in Tiago Alves for Nihal Sudeesh. For the first time in the tournament, Kerala fielded all six of their foreign players. The match began at a lively pace, with both sides creating early chances. Jorge Ortiz fired over for Mumbai in the opening minutes, while Adrián Luna’s clever through ball nearly set up Tiago Alves for the Blasters.

    Kerala looked threatening down the flanks through Noah Sadaoui and Thingujam Korou Singh, with Koldo Obieta also testing Mumbai goalkeeper Phurba Lachenpa from a tight angle. However, momentum began to shift toward Mumbai as the first half progressed. Just before halftime, Kerala suffered a major blow when Sandeep Singh was sent off after receiving a second yellow card.

    Down to ten men, the Blasters reorganized defensively after the break, with Aibanbha Dohling replacing Noah Sadaoui to strengthen the backline. Goalkeeper Nora Fernandes produced a brilliant save to deny Lallianzuala Chhangte in the 54th minute. Kerala remained dangerous from set pieces, as Juan Rodríguez’s header from Aiban’s long throw forced another fine stop from Lachenpa.

    Català introduced Freddy Lallawmawma, Huidrom Naorem Naorem, and later Nihal Sudeesh to maintain intensity as Kerala focused on protecting the draw that would have seen them through. But heartbreak struck in the 88th minute when a deflected clearance from Muhammed Saheef found its way into his own net, giving Mumbai City the decisive lead.

    Despite a late surge, Kerala Blasters couldn’t find an equalizer. The result left them with six points from their group matches, narrowly missing out on a semifinal spot. Mumbai City FC, meanwhile, advanced to the last four of the AIFF Super Cup 2025–26.

  • Super Cup 2025 : Punjab FC Thrilling Victory Over Bengaluru FC Makes Fan Meet in Delhi

    Super Cup 2025 : Punjab FC Thrilling Victory Over Bengaluru FC Makes Fan Meet in Delhi

    Punjab FC gave its supporters the perfect gift on Wednesday night, a thrilling victory that secured a spot in the AIFF Super Cup 2025 semifinals on Wednesday. The win came on the same evening as the club’s first-ever fan meet in Delhi.

    সুপার কাপের সেমিফাইনাল নিশ্চিতের পর সেলিব্রেশনে এই দলের সমর্থকরা

     

    Held at Social Saket, the event attracted over 100 passionate fans, along with journalists and social media influencers, who came together to watch the live screening of the crucial group stage clash against Bengaluru FC.

    The atmosphere was electric, featuring live hip hop performances, football freestyle acts, interactive games, and a football quiz, creating a carnival-like vibe. The celebration reached its peak when Punjab FC edged past Bengaluru FC in a dramatic penalty shootout. Fans erupted in jubilation, turning the event into a night of pure joy, unity, and pride.

    Following the match, coach Panagiotis Dilmperis highlighted the club’s growth:
    “I’m super excited. Day by day, week by week, month by month, year by year, the club is developing and achieving higher goals. And we are doing it while nurturing young Indian players. I believe we are a team that deserves to show the way Indian football should progress.”

    The successful fan meet marked a milestone for Punjab FC, strengthening its bond with supporters beyond the pitch. The evening not only showcased the growing passion for football in the region but also reflected the strong sense of community building around the club’s inspiring journey.

    With a semifinal spot secured and an unforgettable night shared with fans, Punjab FC’s debut fan meet was nothing short of a super success, both on and off the field.

     

     
     
     
     
     
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