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  • Lionel Messi : Mohun Bagan Foreigners Excited, But Coach Lobera Stays Silent About His Former Student

    Lionel Messi : Mohun Bagan Foreigners Excited, But Coach Lobera Stays Silent About His Former Student

    Kolkata is currently at the heart of football frenzy. The city is buzzing with one name Lionel Messi. Long before the Argentine superstar’s arrival, excitement has been building among fans and ISL footballers alike. That wave of enthusiasm has swept into the Mohun Bagan Super Giant training ground as well.

    মেসির খোঁজে বাগানের এই দুই বিদেশি, প্রাক্তন ছাত্রকে নিয়ে চুপ গুরু লোবেরা

     

    On Thursday, after the training session, Australian World Cupper Jason Cummings jokingly asked the reporters waiting outside, “Has Messi arrived already?” Many of his teammates also echoed the same curiosity. The reason is simple—Messi is expected to stay in the same hotel where the foreign players of Mohun Bagan currently reside. Hearing this, another Australian, Dimitri Petratos, laughed and said, “Wish I could share a room with Messi!”

    On the same day, Mohun Bagan officially began a new chapter under Spanish coach Sergio Lobera. He conducted a rigorous 90-minute training session on his very first day. However, Liston Colaco and Sahal Abdul Samad were absent due to personal reasons, while Apuiya missed training because of fever.

    Interestingly, while the players were buzzing with Messi mania, Lobera remained completely calm. Having been the assistant coach at Barcelona in 2012, he once coached Messi himself. But when asked about his former student’s visit to Kolkata, the new Mohun Bagan head coach chose to remain tight-lipped.

    The long wait is finally coming to an end, as Lionel Messi is set to arrive in Kolkata just after midnight on 11 December. The city is preparing to welcome the World Cup-winning captain with grand celebrations.

    On Saturday, the excitement in Kolkata will reach its peak as the Youth Bharati Stadium prepares to host one of the biggest football events in the city’s recent history. Amid growing speculation about whether Shah Rukh Khan will share the stage with Messi, the Bollywood icon confirmed the news on Thursday.
    On social media, Shah Rukh wrote: “No plans with the Knights this time in Kolkata. The day belongs entirely to Messi. See you on the 13th at Salt Lake Stadium.”

    This means fans will witness both Messi and Shah Rukh on the same stage—an early Christmas gift for the people of Bengal. Also expected to attend the event are Sourav Ganguly, Leander Paes, and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, along with several other dignitaries.

    Messi’s arrival is more than just a football moment—it is an emotion, a celebration deeply intertwined with Kolkata’s culture, passion, and history.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • “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.”

  • 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):