sports24x7.in

Tag: AIFF

  • 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.”

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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:

  • 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.

  • 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.

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

    “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.

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

    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.