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  • Kerala Blasters FC Ready to Face Sporting Delhi in Super Cup 2025

    Kerala Blasters FC Ready to Face Sporting Delhi in Super Cup 2025

    Kerala Blasters FC will continue their Super Cup 2025 campaign with their second Group D clash against Sporting Delhi at the GMC Athletic Stadium in Bambolim. The match is scheduled to kick off at 4:30 PM.

    The Blasters began their campaign with a gritty 1–0 victory over Rajasthan United, showing both resilience and composure after a long break from competitive action. They now turn their focus to Sporting Club Delhi, who will be eager to bounce back following a 4–1 loss to Mumbai City in their opening fixture.

    Head Coach David Català on the team’s preparation: “The win against Rajasthan was important, but it’s just the start. We’ve made a good beginning, and now it’s about keeping that same energy and focus. Our players are motivated and have a strong mindset to win this match. Sporting Club Delhi are a young, energetic side with talented players. They’ll be hungry to respond after their first result, so we must stay concentrated, respect their strengths, and impose our style of play from the beginning.”

    Sporting Club Delhi, formerly Hyderabad FC, are adjusting to their new identity and management under head coach Tomasz Tchórz. Despite their opening-day defeat to Mumbai City, they showed glimpses of attacking potential, highlighted by a penalty goal from Andrei Alba.

    Kerala Blasters’ victory over Rajasthan United came through a well-taken goal by Koldo Obieta, assisted perfectly by Juan Rodríguez. The new striker’s goal in his debut match was an encouraging sign, boosting the team’s attacking confidence.

    With momentum on their side, focus renewed, and ambitions high, Kerala Blasters are determined to deliver another strong performance and make a statement against Sporting Club Delhi at Bambolim.

  • “Beating East Bengal…” Molina’s special message to fans ahead Super Cup Kolkata Derby

    “Beating East Bengal…” Molina’s special message to fans ahead Super Cup Kolkata Derby

    Mohun Bagan SG stand on the brink of a ‘do or die’ clash against East Bengal in the Super Cup — a match that will decide their place in the semifinals. After an unexpected draw against Dempo, the Green and Maroon brigade can afford no more mistakes. On the eve of Friday’s mega derby, coach Jose Molina and captain Subhasish Bose appeared confident at the pre-match press conference.

    Coach Molina said, “We are Mohun Bagan. Our supporters always want us to win. We’ll take the field with a winning mindset, not to settle for a draw. Our main goal is to beat East Bengal and bring smiles to our fans’ faces.”

    Despite criticism regarding the team’s failure in front of goal against Dempo, Molina appeared unfazed. He said,

    “Every season has its tough moments. It’s hard to stay at your best without consistent matches. But the boys are working hard. As the level of competition rises, our performance will improve too.”

    Captain Subhasish Bose acknowledged the significance of the derby, saying, “East Bengal are playing more competitive football now. The more derbies we play, the more opportunities we get to evaluate ourselves. For me, this match feels like the Super Cup final. We’re creating chances; we just need to be sharper with our set-pieces. The aim is to convert our chances into goals.”

    Even under rainy conditions in Fatorda, Molina’s men trained with full focus. The coach emphasized, “No matter the situation, we’ll enter the pitch with the mentality to win. We’re not thinking about group positions — our only goal is to win the derby.”

    However, the Spanish coach did express a hint of regret about the empty stands, saying,“It doesn’t feel right when a big match like this is played without spectators. But I know our Mohun Bagan fans will still be behind us, cheering from their homes.”

  • Super Cup 2025 : Jamshedpur Come From Behind to Share Points with NorthEast United

    Super Cup 2025 : Jamshedpur Come From Behind to Share Points with NorthEast United

    Jamshedpur FC battled back from a two-goal deficit to earn a thrilling 2-2 draw against NorthEast United FC in their second AIFF Super Cup 2025 Group B match at the GMC Stadium on Wednesday, October 29.

    NorthEast United took control early as Chema Núñez scored in the 20th minute, followed by Alaaeddine Ajaraie’s clinical finish in the 29th minute to give the Highlanders a 2-0 lead. Facing the threat of elimination, Jamshedpur responded before halftime through Pronay Halder’s header in the 43rd minute. Their persistence finally paid off late when Raphael Messi Bouli struck in the 89th minute to secure a hard-fought draw.

    The match, played under rain-soaked conditions, began cautiously but ended in dramatic fashion, leaving both sides frustrated as the result did little to improve their chances of reaching the semi-finals.

    Both teams entered the match under pressure. NorthEast United, with two points from two games, remained second in the group, while Jamshedpur, now on two points, stayed at the bottom. Their semi-final hopes now depend on FC Goa’s later clash with Inter Kashi. A Goa win would put them on six points, a total neither Jamshedpur nor NorthEast United could reach even if they won their remaining group matches.

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    NorthEast United started the game with urgency. Parthib Gogoi’s early shot in the second minute tested Jamshedpur goalkeeper Albino Gomes, signaling the Highlanders’ intent.

    Their pressure paid off in the 20th minute when a long throw into the box caused confusion, and Núñez reacted fastest to a rebound from Jairo Samperio’s effort off the crossbar to open the scoring. Nine minutes later, a brilliant combination between Núñez and Ajaraie created the second goal. Núñez lifted a precise pass over the Jamshedpur defense for Ajaraie, who volleyed in expertly to give NorthEast a commanding 2-0 lead.

    Jamshedpur finally came to life as the first half progressed. The Red Miners pressed forward, controlled the midfield, and earned a goal just before halftime when Halder rose to meet Rei Tachikawa’s corner and headed home to reduce the deficit.

    The second half was tightly contested in the slippery conditions. NorthEast United continued to create chances, but Núñez, Ajaraie, and Andy Rodríguez all failed to convert. Jamshedpur patiently waited for opportunities and pushed hard in the closing stages. In the 85th minute, Pratik Chowdhury’s curling effort rattled the crossbar.

    Four minutes later, Jamshedpur’s perseverance paid off. A long ball from midfield found Raphael Bouli behind the NorthEast defense, and he calmly headed the ball into the far corner to level the match 2-2, ensuring both teams shared the points.

  • Rajasthan United, Kerala Blasters, Bengaluru, Mohammedan Sporting Begin Super Cup Campaigns

    Rajasthan United, Kerala Blasters, Bengaluru, Mohammedan Sporting Begin Super Cup Campaigns

    The AIFF Super Cup 2025 continues in Goa on Thursday, October 30, with action from Groups D and C. Rajasthan United FC face Kerala Blasters FC, while Bengaluru FC meet Mohammedan Sporting.

    The Rajasthan United vs Kerala Blasters clash kicks off at 16:30 IST at the GMC Stadium in Bambolim and will be streamed live on the Indian Football YouTube channel. Later, Bengaluru FC take on Mohammedan Sporting at 19:30 IST at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda, with live coverage on Star Sports Khel and streaming on JioHotstar.

    Rajasthan United Eye Upset Against Kerala Blasters

    Rajasthan United, led once again by head coach Vikrant Sharma, open their campaign against Indian Super League side Kerala Blasters. Sharma, who guided the club to I-League promotion in 2021–22, is optimistic about causing an upset.

    “Kerala Blasters are an experienced ISL team, but once we step on the pitch, it’s 11 versus 11,” said Sharma. “Upsets have happened before — there’s no reason we can’t make it happen again, maybe even go a step further.”

    Goalkeeper Bhabindra Malla Thakuri echoed his coach’s belief:
    “This is a big opportunity for every player to perform on a big stage. We’re fully motivated, focused, and ready to execute our plan.”

    Meanwhile, Kerala Blasters head coach David Català said his side is ready after a month of preparation.
    “The first matches are never easy, but we’ve been training well and want to start strong,” said Català. “Rajasthan are tough to break down — they press high and defend compactly, so we’ll need to stay sharp and play with the right attitude.”

    Midfielder Adrián Luna stressed the importance of a strong start:
    “It’s a short tournament, so getting three points in the first game is crucial. We’ll try to play attacking, vertical football while adapting to the conditions.”

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    Bengaluru FC Face Mohammedan Sporting Test

    In the evening fixture, former champions Bengaluru FC take on Mohammedan Sporting at Fatorda. The fixture brings back memories of last season, when Mohammedan were one of the few teams to beat Bengaluru at home.

    Head coach Gerard Zaragoza said his side will take a more direct approach this time.
    “We want to play faster football — move the ball forward quickly and attack with fewer passes,” said Zaragoza. “Last season we were solid defensively, but needed more creativity and better finishing. That’s been our main focus in pre-season.”

    Goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu added:
    “It feels great to be back in competitive action. We’ve trained well and are focused on finding our rhythm quickly. The goal is to stay fit and improve with every game.”

    Mohammedan Sporting, coached by Mehrajuddin Wadoo, are relishing the challenge.
    “Bengaluru are a strong and experienced side, but these are the matches you look forward to,” said Wadoo. “We’ll play our football, work hard, and stay disciplined. Results can vary, but performance and effort matter most.”

    Defender Sajad Hussain Parray said the team is ready for the challenge:
    “We’re a young, energetic squad and eager to prove ourselves. Facing a team like Bengaluru is a big test, but also a great opportunity.”

  • During Super Cup How Indian Football Team to Play Exhibition Match Against Nepal?

    During Super Cup How Indian Football Team to Play Exhibition Match Against Nepal?

    Indian Football Team Womens to face Nepal in an exhibition match at Paljor Stadium, Gangtok on October 29, 2025. Free entry for football fans from Sikkim and neighboring regions.

    This fixture comes just two days after the conclusion of the Tri-Nation International Friendlies in Shillong, held during the FIFA Women’s International Match Window, where Nepal defeated India 2–1.

    Organised by the Sikkim Football Association (SFA), the match marks a special occasion — the Blue Tigresses’ first-ever international appearance in Sikkim. On Tuesday, the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Sikkim, Shri Prem Singh Tamang Golay, hosted both the Indian and Nepalese women’s teams for a dinner ahead of the highly anticipated match.

    Mr. Menla Ethenpa, President of the Sikkim Football Association, shared his excitement about hosting this historic event.

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    “Sikkim is thrilled to witness an international football match between India and Nepal right here at Paljor Stadium, Gangtok. We are thankful to Shri Kalyan Chaubey, President of the AIFF, for granting us this opportunity. It is even more special as our Indian women’s team has qualified for the Asian Cup 2026 after a gap of 22 years,” said Mr. Ethenpa.

    He added that preparations for the match have been underway since last week, with particular focus on pitch maintenance. A record crowd of around 25,000 spectators is expected to fill the stadium, with the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Sikkim, Shri Prem Singh Tamang Golay, attending as the Chief Guest.

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    In a heartwarming gesture reflecting the state’s passion for football, the Sikkim Football Association has announced free entry for all fans.

    “The excitement and atmosphere surrounding the match are incredible. Seeing the enthusiasm of football lovers, we decided to make entry free so that fans from all over Sikkim and nearby regions like Kalimpong, Darjeeling, and North Bengal can come and enjoy the game,” Mr. Ethenpa added.

  • Super Cup 2025 : NorthEast United FC Eye Crucial Win Against Jamshedpur FC

    Super Cup 2025 : NorthEast United FC Eye Crucial Win Against Jamshedpur FC

    NorthEast United FC are gearing up for a decisive Group ‘B’ encounter against Jamshedpur FC in the AIFF Super Cup 2025, set to take place at the GMC Athletic Stadium, Bambolim, on Wednesday.

    After a thrilling 2–2 draw in their opener against Inter Kashi FC, the Highlanders are determined to secure their first win of the tournament. Jamshedpur FC, meanwhile, will be eager to bounce back after a disappointing 0–2 loss to FC Goa in their opening fixture.

    Benali Confident, Calls for Focus and Tactical Discipline

    Ahead of the match, NorthEast United’s head coach Juan Pedro Benali emphasized the importance of learning from past performances and maintaining focus.

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    “We hope we’ve learnt from our past matches and are fully focused on the game ahead. We know Jamshedpur FC very well, and they know us too. It’s going to be a tactical battle, and we’re ready to give everything on the pitch,” said Benali.

    Ajaraie in Red-Hot Form

    Moroccan striker Alaaeddine Ajaraie, the star of NorthEast United’s Durand Cup-winning campaign, continued his scoring form with a goal against Inter Kashi. The 32-year-old, who claimed both the Golden Boot and Golden Ball in the Durand Cup with eight goals and four assists, boasts a formidable record versus Jamshedpur FC — four goals and one assist in four appearances — and will be eager to extend that streak.

    Strong Supporting Cast and Defensive Backbone

    Ajaraie will once again be supported by the club’s talented foreign contingent — Jairo Samperio (2 goals, 1 assist), Andy Rodriguez (2 goals, 2 assists), and Chema Núñez (1 assist) — alongside a promising Indian lineup featuring Jithin MS, Parthib Gogoi, Thoi Singh, Lalrinzuala, and Lalbiakdika.

    Captain Michel Zabaco, who netted a towering header in the previous match, will lead the defensive line alongside Asheer Akhtar, Tondonba Singh, Redeem Tlang, Buanthanglun Samte, and Dinesh Singh, with Gurmeet Singh in goal. In midfield, Rodriguez remains the creative hub, supported by Mayakkannan and India international Macarton Nickson.

    Highlanders Aim for Semifinal Push

    With the group stage heating up, NorthEast United FC will be determined to collect all three points and strengthen their semifinal qualification hopes in the AIFF Super Cup 2025.

  • Super Cup 2025 : FC Goa Eye Successive Wins Against Inter Kashi

    Super Cup 2025 : FC Goa Eye Successive Wins Against Inter Kashi

    Reigning Super Cup champions FC Goa will look to build on their impressive start to the tournament when they face Inter Kashi at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda on Wednesday, October 29, 2025. The match kicks off at 7:30 PM IST.

    The Gaurs opened their title defence with a confident win over Jamshedpur FC, the very team they defeated in last season’s final, setting the tone for another strong campaign. Head coach Manolo Marquez will now aim to guide his side to back-to-back victories and move a step closer to the knockout stages.

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    Newly promoted ISL side Inter Kashi, the I-League 2024–25 champions, showed their mettle in their opening fixture, holding NorthEast United FC to a spirited draw. Despite being newcomers to the top tier, the Kashi-based outfit demonstrated organization, energy, and resilience — qualities that could trouble any opponent, including the defending champions.

    For FC Goa, this fixture is another opportunity to make home advantage count. With Fatorda once again hosting the action, the Gaurs are expected to rely on their trademark possession-based football, high pressing, and attacking creativity to break down a confident Inter Kashi side.

    With the group stage schedule packed and qualification spots at a premium, a second straight win would not only cement FC Goa’s control over Group B but also ease their path toward another deep run in the competition.

  • Dempo Stuns Again, Adds Pressure on Mohun Bagan Ahead of Derby!

    Dempo Stuns Again, Adds Pressure on Mohun Bagan Ahead of Derby!

    After East Bengal, Dempo has now held Mohun Bagan to a draw. In Tuesday’s Super Cup match between Mohun Bagan and Dempo, the game ended 0-0. From the start to the final whistle, Dempo maintained an unbreakable defensive line, effectively neutralizing Mohun Bagan’s attacks.

    Mohun Bagan coach José Molina fielded a full arsenal of attacking players. Cummings, McLaren, Robson, and Petratos were all deployed to use their team’s full strength, yet they could not breach the resilient Indian side’s defense. Although Mohun Bagan controlled possession for most of the match, their players failed to create clear chances in the final third. After repeated crosses from the wings, Dempo’s defenders consistently blocked attempts inside the box.

    Dempo’s goalkeeper and defenders fought with determination. Even when Mohun Bagan managed to create opportunities, players like Ashish Rai and Cummings failed to beat the goalkeeper. Had Monvir not missed a key chance, the result might have gone in Mohun Bagan’s favor. Robson and Dimirao also squandered some opportunities, which proved crucial in keeping the score level.

    Dempo’s draw is not only surprising for Mohun Bagan but also for football fans in Kolkata. Nine years ago, Dempo had stepped away from the mainstream of Indian football. As a five-time champion of India’s top clubs, their comeback journey has been long and challenging. Since returning to the I-League, they have gradually strengthened their position. In this Super Cup match, by holding both Kolkata giants—Mohun Bagan and East Bengal—Dempo has reasserted their presence in Indian football.

    On paper, Mohun Bagan dominated. In the game, they had the majority of possession, but dominance remained largely superficial. On the field, it was evident that a well-thought-out defense can be far more effective than mere dominance. Dempo’s steadfast defense, timely blocks, and quick countermeasures thwarted the green-and-maroon’s attacks.

    This result adds more pressure on Mohun Bagan ahead of the derby. Critics believe that if this attacking team continues to fail to capitalize on chances in the final third, they could face a major challenge in the upcoming derby.

  • Mohun Bagan Stuck by Dempo’s Solid Defense! First Half Ends Goalless

    Mohun Bagan Stuck by Dempo’s Solid Defense! First Half Ends Goalless

    In the second match of the Super Cup group stage, Mohun Bagan started strongly but ultimately failed to score against the resilient Dempo Sports Club. Tuesday afternoon’s first half ended with a goalless 0-0 scoreline.

    As the home team, the Bagan brigade had already defeated Chennaiyin FC, led by Clifford Miranda, in their first group match. That win gave them three points and the top spot in the group. However, in the second match against Dempo SC, the team was not in an entirely comfortable position. In particular, coach Jose Molina’s tactical changes did not have the desired impact in the first half.

    In the opening minutes, it was Dempo who showed attacking intent. Within 5 minutes, Vinay’s long-range shot indicated the team’s clear offensive plan. At the 8th minute, Mohun Bagan enjoyed their first set-piece, but Dempo’s defense coordinated well to deny them.

    Although Mohun Bagan dominated possession for most of the half, Dempo’s compact defense prevented any clear chances. At the 16th minute, the team tried to attack in a 4-4-2 formation, yet Dempo remained solid and did not allow any clear opportunities.

    By the 22nd minute, Dempo’s tactical awareness was evident. They were extremely cautious in handling Mohun Bagan’s pressure. In the 24th minute, Petratos’ long-range shot was blocked, and Cummings’ rebound attempt was also stopped by defenders.

    At the 27th minute, Dipendu’s tough challenge created a controversial moment, but he was only cautioned. By the 30th minute, the situation became more complicated as East Bengal, in the same group, reached four points at the top. Mohun Bagan needed a win to reclaim the top spot.

    At the 34th minute, Dimitri Petratos’ long-range shot missed the target, and at the 36th minute, Ashish Rai’s header went straight into the goalkeeper’s hands. This was the best chance of the first half. At the 40th minute, a cross from the flank was easily cleared by Dempo’s defense. Towards the end of the half, Robson and Cummings earned a corner, but no goal came from it.

    The first half showcased Dempo’s strategic solidity and attacking awareness, successfully frustrating Mohun Bagan’s aggression.

    In the second half, Mohun Bagan players will need to employ new tactics and fast-paced attacks if they want to realize their dream of reaching the semifinals. Whether Dempo can maintain their confidence and defensive strength remains the big question now.

  • Several Star Players Missing Against Dempo! Who Makes the Starting XI?

    Several Star Players Missing Against Dempo! Who Makes the Starting XI?

    Despite a shaky start to the season, Mohun Bagan Super Giant have gradually found their rhythm. After a disappointing Durand Cup campaign, the Green-and-Maroon brigade bounced back strongly to achieve glory in the historic IFA Shield.

    In the group stage, Mohun Bagan defeated strong teams like Gokulam Kerala FC and United Sports Club to reach the final, where they faced arch-rivals East Bengal. After a goalless draw in regulation time, the match was decided by a thrilling penalty shoot-out — and it was Mohun Bagan who had the last laugh. That victory brought the IFA Shield back to the club after nearly 22 long years, sparking joy among fans.

    Now, the Mariners are determined to carry that winning momentum into the Super Cup, with eyes firmly set on the trophy. In their first match, Jason Cummings and his teammates registered a crucial victory over Clifford Miranda’s Chennaiyin FC, earning three valuable points and taking the top spot in their group.

    On Tuesday evening, they face Dempo SC in their second group-stage encounter. During their recent training session in Goa, the mood in the Bagan camp appeared upbeat and confident.

    However, head coach Jose Molina wasn’t entirely pleased with the training facilities. Speaking to the media, he said:

    “The weather is not in our control, but the condition of the training ground is terrible. It’s hard to practice here. Still, I don’t want to make excuses — the boys will give their best.”

    Indeed, concerns over the condition of the grounds and surrounding infrastructure have been a recurring issue since the start of the Super Cup. Any moment of negligence could lead to serious injuries, which has naturally frustrated players and coaches alike.

    Despite the challenges and the absence of a few key stars due to injuries and rotation, the Mariners are ready for the battle against Dempo.

    Mohun Bagan Super Giant’s Playing XI (Super Cup 2025):