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Category: Football

  • After Ten Years, Bengal Football Adds New Feather to Its Football Crown

    After Ten Years, Bengal Football Adds New Feather to Its Football Crown

    After a decade, Bengal Football has once again achieved top success in the Sub-Junior National Football Championship. Today, at the Shri Guru Har Gobind Sai Stadium in Amritsar, Punjab, Bengal defeated Delhi 3-0 in the final. Throughout the tournament, Sagnik Kundu, who showcased dazzling performances, once again impressed by scoring a hat-trick in the final.

    দশ বছর পর বাংলা ফুটবলের মুকুটে যুক্ত হল নয়া পালক

     

    From the very start of the final match, Bengal’s players displayed an aggressive style of play. In the first half, Sagnik Kundu capitalized on consecutive opportunities. In the second half, he scored two more goals, securing an easy victory for the team. Not only that, the entire team displayed disciplined football in defense, preventing Delhi from making any comeback.

    Bengal’s coach, Gautam Ghosh, said, “This success is the result of our players’ hard work and confidence. Every player gave their best on the field. As a team, we are truly proud today.”

    Anirban Dutta, Secretary of the Indian Football Association (IFA), congratulated the champion team’s players, saying, “This success of Bengal is a matter of immense pride for football in our state. It is very encouraging to witness such high-quality football at the youth level.”

    This year has already been fruitful for Bengal football. The team had a positive start by achieving success in the Santosh Trophy earlier in the year. By winning the Sub-Junior National Football Championship towards the end of the year, Bengal has once again proven its supremacy in football.

    Notably, in this tournament, the Bengal team attracted attention not only for the results but also for the players’ skills and strategic gameplay. Under the guidance of coach Gautam Ghosh, the team showed coordination in physical fitness, mental resilience, and tactical play. This success is expected to inspire young football talents in Bengal in the future.

    This championship adds a new chapter to the history of Bengal football. The hard work of every player, coaching staff, and management team has been the key to this success. Bengal’s youth football is once again shining on the national map.

  • Indian Football Faces Administrative Crisis as Executive Committee Member Steps Down

    Indian Football Faces Administrative Crisis as Executive Committee Member Steps Down

    Indian football administration has been shaken by the resignation of Vijay Bali. He has stepped down from the federation’s executive committee. Not only was he a member of the executive committee, but he also served as the chairman of the federation’s Competitions Committee. Yesterday, he submitted a detailed resignation letter to President Kalyan Chaubey.

    হইচই ভারতীয় ফুটবলে, পদত্যাগ করলেন ফেডারেশনের ১ কর্তা

     

    In his resignation letter, Bali cited that the behavior of Secretary General Satyanarayan was contrary to administrative norms. He alleged that Satyanarayan was making decisions at his own discretion and implementing them without consulting the executive committee.

    According to Bali, recently, players underwent medical (TW) tests through a Bangalore-based agency. However, concerns about this agency had already been raised by some members during last year’s annual general meeting. Despite this, the tests were conducted without any discussion with the executive committee or the Competitions Committee.

    Bali also accused that in an age-based competition, two players were allowed to participate even though they were over the age limit, with approval from Satyanarayan. Such important decisions were taken without coordinating with the Competitions Committee chairman or other executive committee members. Following these incidents, Bali decided to resign.

    Bali’s resignation has already caused a stir in Indian football administration. The sport is currently facing significant internal conflict. The future of the ISL and I-League is also uncertain. While the federation’s committee can continue functioning under the Supreme Court’s directive, whether officials can simultaneously hold positions in both the state associations and the federation remains under judicial review.

    Analysts believe that this resignation will not only create instability within the federation’s internal politics but could also impact Indian football as a whole. Important federation decisions have already been put on hold, creating uncertainty about future plans.

    After resigning, Bali sent a letter to the federation president clearly stating his stance. He mentioned that this step was necessary to uphold his principles and values. In such a situation, the administration now needs to handle matters carefully; otherwise, the future of Indian football could become even more uncertain.

    Vijay Bali’s resignation symbolizes not just the departure of an individual but the broader administrative instability in Indian football. In the coming weeks, the federation’s decisions and responses will be closely watched by football fans across the country.

  • Footballer who plays for an Argentine club will now represent Indian Football Team!

    Footballer who plays for an Argentine club will now represent Indian Football Team!

    A new chapter is about to begin in Indian Football Team. Ahead of their AFC Asian Cup Qualifier match against Bangladesh, the Indian national team has called up two overseas-based players of Indian origin to join the training camp. They are Indian passport holder defender Avneet Bharti and Indian-origin forward Ryan Williams. The All India Football Federation (AIFF)’s decision is being described by many as a “historic move.”

    আর্জেন্টিনায় খেলা এই ফুটবলার খেলবেন ভারতের জার্সিতে! সঙ্গে বেঙ্গালুরুর ১

     

    On November 18, India will face Bangladesh in Dhaka. After losing to Singapore at home, India’s hopes of qualifying for the Asian Cup finals are virtually over, especially without Sunil Chhetri. However, for this formality fixture, the federation wants to try out fresh talent and explore new possibilities. The national team camp begins in Bengaluru on Thursday, and both these “foreign” Indians are expected to join.

    AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey said, “Both Avneet and Williams will get a chance to prove themselves in the camp. If they meet the coach’s expectations, they could be included in the squad for the Dhaka match.”

    Avneet Bharti, 26, currently plays for Bolivian top-division club Academia del Balompié Boliviano, on loan from Czech National League club FK Varnsdorf. He has also played for Sol de Mayo in Argentina. A centre-back by position, Avneet was born in Nepal, but because his father was a diplomat, he spent his childhood in several countries. During the 2019–20 season, he featured briefly for Kerala Blasters in the Indian Super League, though most of his career has been abroad.

    On the other hand, Ryan Williams, 31, was born in Perth, Australia, to an Anglo-Indian family — his mother is of Indian descent from Mumbai, and his father is from Kent, England. Recently, Williams obtained an Indian passport and currently plays as a forward for Bengaluru FC. He had earlier expressed his desire to represent India.

    AIFF president Chaubey added, “In Williams’ case, we had to go through a long process. I must thank Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and his ministry — without their help, this wouldn’t have been possible.”

    According to federation sources, Avneet is ready to join the camp immediately, while Williams is awaiting final clearance. The inclusion of these two players could open a new horizon for Indian football. Their overseas experience and exposure could bring the strength and tactical awareness the Indian team needs to succeed on the international stage.

  • No Mohun Bagan Players, Jamil Bets on Indian Football Team Youth for Bangladesh Match

    No Mohun Bagan Players, Jamil Bets on Indian Football Team Youth for Bangladesh Match

    After losing to Singapore at home, Indian Football Team hopes of qualifying for the main stage of the AFC Asian Cup 2027 are virtually over. The Blue Tigers will next face Bangladesh in Dhaka on November 27 in what is now merely a formality. However, head coach Khalid Jamil is treating this “dead rubber” as an opportunity to shape the next generation of Indian footballers. On Wednesday, he announced a 23-member probable squad with a strong emphasis on youth.

    বাংলাদেশের বিপক্ষে সম্ভাব্য দলে নেই এই তারকা, সুযোগ ১ বাংলার ফুটবলারের

     

    The biggest talking point is the absence of legendary striker Sunil Chhetri. For the first time in years, India will take the field without their long-time talisman. Jamil explained that the decision was made to give younger players a chance, keeping the future in mind. Sources suggest that Chhetri himself is no longer interested in representing the national team and believes it’s time to pass the baton to the next generation. It is rumored that he may soon officially announce his second retirement from international football.

    Among the seniors, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu and Sandesh Jhingan have been retained to provide balance and guidance to the youngsters. Interestingly, no Mohun Bagan players have been included — a significant move that has drawn attention, especially since regulars like Subhasish Bose are missing.

    Among the young guns, Rahim Ali stands out as the only player from Bengal. He scored for India in their away match against Singapore and will be key in attack against Bangladesh. Meanwhile, Mohammed Sanan, currently with the U-23 side, is expected to join the senior squad later.

    The team also includes promising talents such as Akash Mishra, Anwar Ali, Ashique Kuruniyan, Suresh Singh Wangjam, Lallianzuala Chhangte, and Vikram Partap Singh — all viewed as the future of Indian football.

    Though India’s Asian Cup dream is over, Jamil sees this match as a “new beginning.” The game in Dhaka will be a valuable test for India’s young stars to adapt to the demands of international football. How well the Chhetri-less side performs will be closely watched.

    India’s Probable Squad:

  • East Bengal Official Speaks Out Kolkata Football Match-Fixing Scandal

    East Bengal Official Speaks Out Kolkata Football Match-Fixing Scandal

    Once again, Kolkata football circle has been shaken by controversy. To combat match-fixing in the Maidan, Kolkata Police have been taking a series of strong actions. This time, police have arrested Sujay Bhowmik, a close associate of Khidderpore Club official Akash Das. He was taken into custody by Bowbazar Police on Wednesday.

    গড়াপেটার অভিযোগে গ্রেফতার আরও ১, মুখ খুললেন লাল-হলুদ শীর্ষ কর্তা

     

    Sources reveal that last Sunday, police arrested Akash Das in connection with a match-fixing case. During the investigation, Sujay Bhowmik’s name came up. Their close relationship and financial transactions drew the attention of the police. It is alleged that Sujay was involved in fixing several local football matches in Kolkata.

    According to police sources, the accused not only fixed matches in exchange for money but also misused technology in the process. Cases have been filed under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Information Technology Act, and both men were arrested by Belgharia Police. Investigators believe more names could surface as the inquiry continues.

    Officials of the “Big Three” Kolkata clubs have expressed satisfaction over the police action. Mohun Bagan secretary Srinjoy Bose said, “I think these arrests are completely justified. We had also heard about their involvement. The police acted at the right time—this is a good sign for football. The IFA should have increased monitoring earlier.”

    East Bengal official Debabrata Sarkar said, “The first credit goes to the IFA, then to the Sports Minister. He wanted the matter to come to light. The Police Commissioner also deserves thanks. When match-fixing is destroying the integrity of football worldwide, Bengal has shown how to take a stand against it.”

    Police claim the investigation is still in its early stages. In the coming days, several other individuals associated with football organizations may be questioned. The police are determined to uncover the masterminds behind this “invisible game” that threatens the spirit of the sport.

  • Kerala Blasters Strengthen Semifinal Hopes with 3–0 Win Over Sporting Delhi

    Kerala Blasters Strengthen Semifinal Hopes with 3–0 Win Over Sporting Delhi

    Kerala Blasters FC delivered a commanding performance to defeat Sporting Delhi 3–0 in their second Group D match of the AIFF Super Cup 2025 at the GMC Stadium in Bambolim on Monday, November 3, 2025. All three goals came in the first half.

    A brace from Koldo Obieta (17’, 23’) and a superb acrobatic strike from Korou Singh Thingujam (34’) sealed a comfortable win for the Blasters. With this result, Kerala Blasters moved to the top of Group D with six points from two matches, while SC Delhi were knocked out of the tournament.

    The Blasters, coached by David Català, were disciplined in defense, creative in midfield, and ruthless in attack. From the opening whistle, they dominated possession, pressed high up the pitch, and stretched SC Delhi’s five-man defense.

    The tone was set early when Adrián Luna’s corner found Juan Rodríguez, whose header struck the crossbar. Noah Sadaoui looked sharp in attack, while Nihal Sudheesh’s pace constantly troubled the Delhi backline.

    Kerala Blasters took the lead in the 17th minute after a costly mistake from Delhi. A misplaced back pass by Ayush Adhikari was intercepted by Obieta, who slotted the ball past goalkeeper Vishal Yadav despite his attempt to save.

    Just six minutes later, Obieta struck again. A slick passing move involving Korou, Nihal, and Obieta ended with the Spanish forward weaving through the defense and calmly finishing into the bottom corner to make it 2–0.

    The third goal arrived in the 34th minute and was arguably the best of the night. Captain Luna floated a delightful scooped pass into the box, which Korou Singh met with an acrobatic right-footed volley that flew into the far corner — a goal that perfectly captured the Blasters’ flair and confidence.

    SC Delhi failed to register a single shot on target in the first half and struggled to cope with Kerala Blasters’ tempo and movement. Though they improved slightly after the break, the damage was already done.

    Their best chance came in the 88th minute, when Augustine Lalrochana forced a fine save from Nora Fernandes, who preserved the Blasters’ clean sheet.

    With this emphatic victory, Kerala Blasters reinforced their credentials as serious contenders for a Super Cup semifinal spot, while SC Delhi bowed out after another disappointing result.

  • Two Official’s Kolkata Football Club Arrested Over Match-Fixing Allegations

    Two Official’s Kolkata Football Club Arrested Over Match-Fixing Allegations

    Kolkata’s Maidan is in the headlines again, but this time not for Kolkata football. On Sunday evening, Kolkata police arrested two officials of a century-old football club over allegations of match-fixing. The arrested individuals are Akash Das and Rahul Saha. According to reports, they were allegedly involved in manipulating several matches in Kolkata in exchange for money.

    গড়াপেটার অভিযোগে গ্রেফতার শতাব্দীপ্রাচীন ক্লাবের দুই কর্তা

     

    Police sources said that the match-fixing ring was also being run through the misuse of information technology. As a result, a case has been filed at Belgharia police station under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Information Technology Act. The two were called in for questioning on Sunday afternoon and were arrested after lengthy interrogations in the evening.

    Match-Fixing Shadows Club’s Internal Conflicts

    Football circles claim that Akash Das was responsible for team formation at one of Kolkata’s historic clubs. He had been assembling teams for the club for the past three years. Club sources said that due to financial difficulties, the club’s officials had given him this responsibility. However, the other officials claimed that they had had no contact with Rahul Saha over the past three months. There is little detailed information available about Rahul Saha.

    Match-Fixing Allegations Have Surfaced Before

    Earlier this year, during the Kolkata League, match-fixing allegations had surfaced against Khidderpore and Messers Clubs. Complaints had been filed against Khidderpore’s Abhik Guha and Messers’ two players, Muslim Molla and Sannik Murmu. The police investigation began based on reports from organizations working against match-fixing in coordination with the IFA.

    A few days ago, during a meeting with IFA officials, Kolkata police stated that they had obtained some important information regarding match-fixing. This was followed by the double arrest on Sunday night.

    Police claim that the mobile phones and financial transaction records of the two arrested officials are being examined. Investigators are also looking into whether there is any connection with international betting syndicates. The incident has caused a major stir in Kolkata’s football circles. Some in the football community say, “Such incidents are tarnishing the image of Kolkata football. The IFA needs to take stricter action.”

  • AIFF Announces Two-Phase Format and Dates for IWL 2025–26 Season

    AIFF Announces Two-Phase Format and Dates for IWL 2025–26 Season

    A new chapter is set to open in Indian women’s football with the upcoming Indian Women’s League (IWL) 2025–26 season, which will, for the first time, be played in two phases. The decision was taken during a virtual meeting held on Thursday, October 30, 2025, between the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and representatives from the eight participating clubs.

    মরশুম শুরুর তারিখ ঘোষণা ফেডারেশনের, দুই পর্বে হবে IWL

     

    Two-Phase Schedule:

    Phase 1: December 20, 2025 – January 6, 2026

    Phase 2: April 20 – May 10, 2026

    Both phases will be held at two separate centralized venues, with each phase assigned a different location.

    According to the federation, this two-phase format was introduced at the request of the clubs to ensure that players can fulfill their international and national team commitments without scheduling conflicts. Several Indian women’s national team players are currently engaged in international tournaments and national camps.

    National Team Preparations:

    Senior Women’s National Team: 13-day camp, 3 friendly matches

    U-20 Women’s Team: 12-day camp, 2 friendly matches

    AIFF officials stated, “The main goal behind this schedule is to strike a balance between club competitions and national team preparations. The new format aims to help players maintain match fitness and competitive rhythm throughout the season.”

    The two-phase structure will allow clubs more time for preparation while keeping fans and supporters engaged through an extended and exciting season. The final fixture list and venue details will be announced soon by the AIFF.

  • Steven Dias Reflects on Jamshedpur FC Super Cup Campaign Finale

    Steven Dias Reflects on Jamshedpur FC Super Cup Campaign Finale

    Jamshedpur FC concluded their Super Cup campaign on a high note with a convincing victory over Inter Kashi, showcasing the team’s growth and resilience throughout the tournament.

    In a post-match interview, Head Coach Steven Dias shared his thoughts on his first win at the helm of Jamshedpur FC, reflecting on the team’s journey and the lessons learned. According to Dias, the win highlighted the team’s progress, with players delivering increasingly strong performances in each match.

    “We’ve been improving game by game, and that showed in our final match,” Dias said. “The boys played high-intensity football, and I’m very pleased with their efforts.”

    Dias also praised the squad’s unity and cohesion, which he said were key to their success. “I saw excellent teamwork in both defense and attack. Our plan worked, and the boys gave everything on the pitch,” he added.

    The Super Cup provided valuable learning experiences for the team. Dias noted, “I’ve personally learned a lot from this tournament. Now we have a clear understanding of our strengths and areas we need to improve, and we can work on them.”

    Looking ahead, Dias emphasized the importance of maintaining consistency and building on this performance. “We need to keep performing at this level in every match,” he said, underlining the value of team unity.

    He concluded with a message to the fans: “We’re all working extremely hard and giving our all. Keep faith in us and continue supporting the team, as you always have.”

  • Punjab FC cruise past Mohammedan SC with 3–0 win in Super Cup 2025

    Punjab FC cruise past Mohammedan SC with 3–0 win in Super Cup 2025

    Score: Mohammedan SC – 0 | Punjab FC – 3 (Ninthoi 27’, Zeljkovic 43’, M. Kipgen 73’)

    Punjab FC registered a commanding 3–0 victory over Mohammedan SC in their Group C encounter of the AIFF Indian Super Cup 2025 at the GMC Athletic Stadium. This was Punjab’s second consecutive win, taking them to six points from two matches and moving them a step closer to the semifinals. The goals came from Ninthoinganba Meetei, Samir Zeljkovic, and Manglenthang Kipgen.

    Head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis made just one change to Punjab’s starting lineup, bringing in Spanish midfielder Dani Ramirez in place of Princeton Rebello, who had scored in the previous game. Mohammedan SC’s coach Mehrajuddin Wadoo fielded an unchanged eleven from their last outing, where they lost to Bengaluru FC.

    The first major chance fell to Mohammedan’s Bijoy Varghese, whose header from a corner went narrowly wide. Soon after, goalkeeper Subhajit Bhattacharjee produced a fine save to deny Ninthoi.

    Sudip–Shakir’s brilliance takes Bengal to 336, yet worries remain!

    Punjab’s attacking quartet of Dani Ramirez, Kipgen, Ninthoi, and Muhammad Suhail constantly troubled the Mohammedan defence. Their fluid combination play led to the opener in the 27th minute — Kipgen’s precise through ball found Ninthoi making a clever run, and the winger calmly slotted past the advancing goalkeeper.

    The pressure continued, and Punjab doubled their lead just before halftime. Right-back Khaiminthang Lhungdim delivered a deep cross that Ninthoi headed back across goal, where new signing Samir Zeljkovic was waiting unmarked. His left-footed shot may not have been perfectly struck, but it had enough power to find the bottom corner.

    Punjab controlled the tempo after the break, dominating possession and creating chances. Mohammedan, meanwhile, struggled to threaten, with Yash Chickro’s long-range effort being their closest attempt.

    In the 72nd minute, substitute Leon Augustine set up Kipgen inside the box, and the forward calmly finished to make it 3–0. Punjab continued to press for more, with new signing Nsungusi Effiong creating opportunities but failing to convert. Mohammedan managed their first shot on target only in stoppage time, which goalkeeper Muheet Shabir dealt with comfortably.

    With this convincing win, Punjab FC recorded their second straight victory. They will face Bengaluru FC in their final group game on November 5 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Fatorda — a match likely to decide the Group C winners.