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  • 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.

  • 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:

  • 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.

  • India Young Tigresses Stay Unbeaten in Kazakhstan

    India Young Tigresses Stay Unbeaten in Kazakhstan

    India U20 Womens Team concluded their two-match friendly series against Kazakhstan U19 with a 1-1 draw at the BIIK Sports Complex in Shymkent on Tuesday. The result followed India’s 3-2 win in the first match on Saturday, ensuring the Young Tigresses remained unbeaten in their overseas assignment.

    Both teams produced an entertaining contest that saw all the action unfold in the second half. After a goalless opening 45 minutes, Kazakhstan’s Adeliya Bekkozhina broke the deadlock in the 47th minute, giving the home side the lead with a neat finish past Indian goalkeeper Monalisha Devi Moirangthem.

    India responded quickly, with forward Pooja continuing her fine run of form. The striker, who had scored in the first friendly as well, equalised in the 55th minute to bring India level. The visitors pushed hard for a winner in the closing stages but were denied by a resolute Kazakh defence.

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    Head coach Maymol Rocky’s side showed promising signs throughout the match, combining defensive discipline with quick attacking transitions. Captain Shubhangi Singh marshalled the midfield effectively, while defenders Remi Thokchom and Thoibisana Chanu Toijam stood firm against Kazakhstan’s physical frontline.

    Speaking after the match, coach Maymol expressed satisfaction with her team’s performance and progress during the tour. “The two matches here have been valuable for our preparation. The players showed great determination and adaptability against a strong Kazakhstan side. We’ll take the positives forward as we prepare for the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup,” she said.

    The friendly series forms part of India’s preparation for the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup 2026, where the Young Tigresses aim to make a strong impact. The exposure in Kazakhstan has provided the squad with crucial international experience against competitive opposition in challenging conditions.

    Indian Football Team Falls to 136th in FIFA Standings After Defeat to Singapore

    India’s starting lineup featured Monalisha Devi Moirangthem (GK), Remi Thokchom, Thoibisana Chanu Toijam, Neha, Pooja, Sibani Devi Nongmaikapam, Lhingdeikim, Shubhangi Singh (C), Anju Chanu Kayenpaibam, Cindy Remruatpuii Colney, and Kajol Dsouza.

    With the draw, India wrapped up their Kazakhstan tour on a positive note, showing steady improvement and team cohesion — encouraging signs as they continue their journey toward next year’s continental championship.

  • Indian Football Team Falls to 136th in FIFA Standings After Defeat to Singapore

    Indian Football Team Falls to 136th in FIFA Standings After Defeat to Singapore

    The Indian Football Team has suffered yet another setback, dropping three places in the latest FIFA World Rankings to 136th — its lowest position in nearly a decade. The latest update from FIFA reflects India’s continued struggles on the international stage, with inconsistent performances and disappointing results overshadowing brief flashes of promise.

    The fall in rankings comes on the back of a poor run of form, particularly in recent fixtures against Singapore, where India failed to deliver despite glimpses of progress seen earlier in the year during the CAFA Nations Cup. The drop not only affects India’s global standing but also pushes them further down the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) rankings, where they now sit 25th among Asian nations — below regional rivals like Malaysia, North Korea, and Indonesia.

    This decline comes at a critical juncture for Indian football as the Blue Tigers prepare for the next phase of AFC qualification matches. The latest ranking dip has sparked concern among fans and pundits alike about the team’s long-term direction, as well as the impact of recent managerial changes.

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    Khalid Jamil’s Mixed Start as Head Coach

    Appointed in August 2025, Khalid Jamil made history as the first Indian head coach of the national team in 13 years. His arrival was heralded as a potential turning point following the inconsistent tenures of Igor Stimac and Manolo Marquez, both of whom failed to take the team to the next level despite promising starts.

    Under Jamil, India initially showed signs of revival. The Blue Tigers performed commendably at the CAFA Nations Cup, finishing third in a competitive field and displaying a newfound tactical organization. However, that momentum has since waned. The recent defeat to Singapore — a side ranked lower than India — was particularly damaging, both in terms of morale and ranking points.

    The loss also eliminated India from contention for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup, extending their wait for meaningful competitive football. With the next round of qualifiers scheduled for November 2025, the team now faces months of reflection and rebuilding under Jamil’s guidance.

    Concerns Over Consistency and Creativity

    While Jamil’s appointment brought optimism, early challenges have exposed familiar issues. India’s attack has struggled for creativity and cutting edge, often failing to convert possession into goals. Defensively, the team has shown resilience but remains prone to lapses in concentration. Critics have also pointed to a lack of depth in key positions and the need for a more cohesive long-term strategy that prioritizes player development and youth integration.

    For Jamil, the immediate task will be to restore confidence within the squad and rediscover the intensity that characterized their CAFA Nations Cup performances. The next set of fixtures against Bangladesh in November could prove crucial in determining both his tenure and India’s trajectory in the AFC rankings.

    The Road Ahead

    As India look to bounce back, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) faces increasing pressure to provide structural stability and support for the national setup. The ranking drop serves as a stark reminder that progress in international football requires sustained investment, strategic planning, and patience.

    With fans eager to see the Blue Tigers regain their competitive edge, November’s fixtures could mark the beginning of another rebuilding phase — one that India can ill afford to get wrong.