Wishlist0
0
Continue Shopping

 +91 91155 12977

Home / News / Football (Page 60)

Category: Football

Sunil Chhetri Set for 150th International Cap, Joining Elite Group of Players

Sunil Chhetri Set for 150th International Cap, Joining Elite Group of Players

By March 23, 2024 0

Sunil Chhetri, the talismanic captain of the Indian football team, is poised to reach a remarkable milestone in his illustrious career. On Tuesday, in the World Cup qualifier against Afghanistan in Guwahati, Chhetri will make his 150th international appearance, becoming only the 40th player in the world to achieve this feat.

Chhetri’s international journey began on June 12, 2005, in a friendly match against Pakistan in Quetta. He marked his debut with a goal in a 1-1 draw. Since then, he has amassed 149 caps for India, scoring a record 93 goals.

Throughout his career, Chhetri has been a prolific goal-scorer, holding the unique distinction of scoring at least one goal in his first, 25th, 50th, 75th, 100th, and 125th matches for the Blue Tigers. His exceptional goal-scoring prowess has earned him the admiration of fans and respect from opponents alike.

“It’s been an awe-inspiring and staggering cruise that all of us have been fortunate to witness since 2005,” said All India Football Federation (AIFF) president Kalyan Chaubey. “Chhetri playing his 150th international match is an extraordinary accomplishment that will go a long way in keeping the Indian football flag flying high.”

Chhetri’s influence on Indian football extends beyond his on-field achievements. He has been a role model for aspiring footballers, inspiring millions to take up the beautiful game.

“He has been a great influencer who has motivated millions to play this beautiful game,” added Chaubey. “I congratulate Chhetri for reaching this great height in international football.”

The AIFF has announced that it will felicitate Chhetri on the sidelines of the return leg clash against Afghanistan in Guwahati.

“In many football fans’ eyes, Chhetri is almost the synonym of the Indian men’s national team,” said AIFF acting secretary general M Satyanarayan. “He is a fabulous footballer, a cool captain, and a star striker. The All India Football Federation is proud to felicitate him on his 150th international match. We sincerely hope Chhetri will continue to serve Indian football in the same breath in the future.”

Categories: Football
Read more
Brazil Coach Condemns Rape Convictions of Robinho and Alves

Brazil Coach Condemns Rape Convictions of Robinho and Alves

By March 23, 2024 0

Brazil’s national football team and its coach, Dorival Junior, have expressed their dismay and condemnation over the recent rape convictions of former internationals Robinho and Dani Alves.

Robinho, 40, was sentenced to nine years in prison in Brazil for his involvement in a gang rape in Italy in 2013. Alves, also 40, received a four-and-a-half year sentence for raping a young woman in a Barcelona nightclub in 2022.

“As coach of the national team, I have an obligation to speak out,” said Dorival ahead of Brazil’s international friendly against England at Wembley on Saturday. “First, I think it’s a very delicate situation. I think of the families and especially the victims affected by these cases which occur every day in our country and around the world.”

Dorival, who took over the five-time world champions in January, said the situation of Robinho, whom he coached at Brazilian club Santos, was particularly painful for him. “If it has been proven that there was any crime, he must be punished even if it hurts my heart to say this about a person with whom I have always had an exceptional relationship,” added the 61-year-old.

“I didn’t have the opportunity to work with Daniel, but we all know his story within football. It’s a difficult time for all of us to express ourselves in these situations.”

Dorival emphasized his concern for the victims and their families. “I know how painful it must have been for each of them. What I can do is help them with prayers, nothing more.”

In a statement on Friday, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) described the cases as “shameful,” expressing its support for “the victims of the two brutal crimes committed by former players.” CBF president Ednaldo Rodrigues added that in an environment where “machismo reigns,” men must “fight not only sexual violence, but all kinds of violence.”

Brazil full-back Danilo, who will captain the national side against England, called on the football authorities to raise awareness among young players, to put themselves “in women’s shoes in a more empathetic way.”

The convictions of Robinho and Alves have sparked outrage and condemnation in Brazil and around the world, highlighting the ongoing problem of sexual violence and the need for accountability in all walks of life, including the world of sports.

Categories: Football
Read more
England's Kane Out of Brazil Friendly, Doubtful for Belgium

England’s Kane Out of Brazil Friendly, Doubtful for Belgium

By March 23, 2024 0

England’s captain, Harry Kane, will miss the upcoming friendly match against Brazil on Saturday due to an ankle injury sustained during Bayern Munich’s victory over Darmstadt last weekend. Kane’s absence extends to the potential match against Belgium next week, leaving him “extremely doubtful” for participation.

The injury setback comes at a crucial time for Kane, as England manager Gareth Southgate prepares to announce his squad for Euro 2024 in June. However, Kane remains confident in his place on the team despite the injury.

Other notable absentees from the England squad include Ajax midfielder Jordan Henderson and Chelsea forward Cole Palmer, who are also sidelined with injuries. Arsenal forward Bukayo Saka withdrew from the squad on Thursday due to an injury.

Southgate expressed concern over Kane’s injury, stating that he would be “extremely doubtful” for the Belgium match. However, he acknowledged the opportunity for Ollie Watkins and Ivan Toney to prove their worth as potential understudies to Kane at the Euros.

Watkins has scored three goals in nine international appearances, while Toney made his England debut as a substitute against Ukraine last year. Southgate emphasized the importance of versatility in his squad, hinting at the possibility of selecting players who can fulfill multiple roles.

Despite the absences, England remain favorites to defeat Brazil in their first match under new head coach Dorival Junior. The Selecao have won 10 of their last 11 friendlies against European opposition but will be eager to avoid a fourth consecutive loss since 2001.

Southgate acknowledged England’s poor record against Brazil but expressed confidence in his team’s ability to create history and test themselves against a formidable opponent.

Categories: Football
Read more
Wales' New Generation Ready to Shine in Post-Bale Era

Wales’ New Generation Ready to Shine in Post-Bale Era

By March 23, 2024 0

The post-Gareth Bale era in Welsh football has been a period of transition and rejuvenation. After the departure of their talismanic forward, Wales has emerged with a new generation of players ready to make their mark on the international stage.

The absence of Bale, who retired after the 2022 World Cup, and Aaron Ramsey, who is in the twilight of his career, has forced Wales to find new sources of inspiration. And they have found it in abundance.

A youthful Wales side will face Poland in a crucial playoff final on Tuesday, with a place at the 2024 European Championship on the line. The team has shown impressive form in recent months, sweeping past Finland 4-1 in the playoff semifinals.

Among the standout performers for Wales has been David Brooks, a midfield playmaker who has recently recovered from cancer treatment. Brennan Johnson, a forward who is making a name for himself at Tottenham Hotspur, and Dan James, a winger who is rebuilding his career at Leeds United, have also made significant contributions.

These players, along with other promising talents such as Jordan James, Harry Wilson, and Lewis Koumas, represent the future of Welsh football. They are a blend of experience and youthful exuberance, and they have the potential to achieve great things.

Wales coach Robert Page has been impressed with the progress of his young squad. “We’ve lost superstars with Gaz (Bale) and Joe (Allen),” he said. “But that doesn’t mean there’s a different feeling within the camp. We are more than confident with the squad we’ve got.”

The key for Wales now is to maintain their momentum and continue to develop their young players. If they can do that, they have the potential to become a force to be reckoned with in international football.

Categories: Football
Read more
Robinho Arrested in Brazil to Serve Rape Sentence

Robinho Arrested in Brazil to Serve Rape Sentence

By March 22, 2024 0

Former Manchester City and Real Madrid star Robinho has been arrested in Brazil to serve a nine-year sentence for raping a woman in 2013. The arrest comes after the Supreme Court rejected his request to delay the sentence.

Robinho was found guilty by an Italian court in 2017 of participating in the gang rape of an Albanian woman in Milan. He lost an appeal in 2020 and had his sentence upheld by Italy’s highest court in 2022.

As Brazil does not extradite its nationals, Italy requested that Robinho serve his sentence in his home country. A court in Brasilia agreed, and on Thursday, court president Maria Thereza de Assis Moura signed a document paving the way for an arrest warrant.

Robinho’s lawyers had filed a request to the Supreme Court to allow him to remain free while challenging the latest court decision, but it was rejected. He was arrested at his luxury condominium in Guaruja, near Santos, and will be taken to a prison in Tremembe.

Robinho has denied the charges and claimed the sex was consensual. However, the complaint alleges that he and his co-accused made the victim drink to the point of unconsciousness and then had sexual relations with her multiple times.

The case has sparked criticism over the failure of football authorities in Brazil to condemn violence against women. Palmeiras president Leila Pereira has lashed out at the football world for its silence on the twin rape convictions of Robinho and former Barcelona defender Dani Alves.

Robinho’s arrest marks a dramatic fall from grace for the former star, who was once touted as the successor to the golden generation of Brazilian players. He has 100 Brazil caps and 28 goals for his country.

Categories: Football
Read more
North Korea's World Cup Qualifier Moved to Neutral Venue

North Korea’s World Cup Qualifier Moved to Neutral Venue

By March 22, 2024 0

North Korea’s home World Cup qualifier against Japan on Tuesday will be held at a neutral venue, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) announced. The decision comes just four days before the scheduled match, leaving little time to find an alternative location.

The AFC confirmed that the game will still take place as planned on Tuesday, but did not disclose the reason for the change in venue. However, Japanese news agency Kyodo reported that North Korea expressed concerns over bacterial infections in Japan.

North Korean officials had initially requested that the match be held in Japan, but the Japanese Football Association (JFA) declined due to the short notice. The JFA also cited security concerns, as Japan’s foreign ministry had warned football fans against traveling to North Korea.

The match in Pyongyang would have been the first game in North Korea for Japan’s men’s team since 2011. It would have also been a rare international football match in North Korea, which has been isolated from the international community due to its nuclear and missile programs.

Despite its isolation, North Korea has qualified for the World Cup twice before. In 1966, they famously beat Italy 1-0 and made it to the quarter-finals. They also qualified in 2010, but were knocked out at the group stage after three defeats.

The change in venue for the World Cup qualifier is the latest setback in relations between Japan and North Korea. The two countries have long been at odds over issues such as Japan’s occupation of the Korean peninsula during World War II and North Korea’s missile tests.

Categories: Football
Read more
Mohammedan Sporting on Verge of Historic I-League Triumph

Mohammedan Sporting on Verge of Historic I-League Triumph

By March 22, 2024 0

Mohammedan Sporting, a historic football club from Kolkata, is on the cusp of winning its first I-League title. With seven points needed from the remaining 12, the club is well-positioned to secure promotion to the Indian Super League (ISL) in 2024-25.

The club’s success can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the early arrival in Srinagar for matches has allowed players to acclimatize to the cold conditions. Secondly, the return of Russian coach Andrey Chernyshov has brought stability and tactical acumen to the team.

Chernyshov, a former defender with Dynamo Moscow and Sturm Graz, has implemented a disciplined and attacking style of play. He has also placed trust in young players, many of whom were signed by his predecessor, Mehrajuddin Wadoo.

Among the standout performers for Mohammedan Sporting is 22-year-old David Lalhlansanga, who has scored five goals and provided two assists in the I-League. Honduran striker Eddie Hernandez has also been a key contributor with 13 goals, placing him third in the race for the golden boot.

The club’s focus on young talent has been aided by the All India Football Federation’s (AIFF) rule barring foreign players in state/city leagues. This has allowed Mohammedan Sporting to identify and develop promising Indian players.

Consistency has been another hallmark of Mohammedan Sporting’s season. The team has recorded 14 wins, five draws, and just one loss, including impressive victories over former champions Gokulam Kerala and Churchill Brothers.

Chernyshov’s influence has been evident in the team’s ability to overcome challenges such as fixture congestion and long-haul travel. His tactical nous and motivational skills have kept the players focused and determined.

If Mohammedan Sporting secures promotion to the ISL, it will become the third club over 100 years old to join the league. This would add historical depth and prestige to the competition.

Categories: Football
Read more
Phil Foden: England's Enigma Amidst a Wealth of Talent

Phil Foden: England’s Enigma Amidst a Wealth of Talent

By March 22, 2024 0

Phil Foden, the 23-year-old Manchester City prodigy, has emerged as a formidable force in the Premier League, earning accolades as the league’s best player from his manager, Pep Guardiola. However, his role in Gareth Southgate’s England setup remains uncertain as Euro 2024 approaches.

Foden’s exceptional talent has been evident since his youth, and he has amassed an impressive collection of 14 major trophies with Manchester City. This season, he has been instrumental in the team’s success, contributing 18 goals and 10 assists in 41 appearances. Guardiola has hailed Foden as “the best player in the Premier League right now,” citing his versatility and ability to win games with his goals.

Despite his club form, Foden has yet to make a similar impact for England. He has been part of Southgate’s squad for the past two major tournaments but has struggled to secure a regular starting role. His versatility has proven to be both a blessing and a curse, as he faces competition from a plethora of talented English players.

In the England midfield, Foden has been overshadowed by Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham, who has established himself as one of the world’s best at just 20 years old. On the right wing, he faces competition from Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka, who impressed at the World Cup and has earned Southgate’s trust.

As a result, Foden has been relegated to competing with Marcus Rashford and Jack Grealish for a place on the left side of the England attack. While he is capable in that position, there is a sense that he has been sacrificed to accommodate others. His international goal tally of four from 31 appearances pales in comparison to his prolificacy for Manchester City.

Former England captain Alan Shearer believes Foden should be an automatic starter for England, praising his ability to receive the ball in tight situations and make it look easy. Gary Neville, another former England international, has criticized Southgate for not finding a suitable role for Foden, calling him “a sensation” and “something really, really special.”

With Euro 2024 on the horizon, the pressure is on Southgate to find a solution that allows Foden to showcase his full potential for England. The possibility of playing both Foden and Bellingham centrally, with Declan Rice behind them, has been suggested by many fans and pundits. However, Southgate has favored a more defensive-minded approach in the past.

Foden’s form has made him impossible to ignore, and Southgate must now find a way to accommodate his array of attacking talent while ensuring balance in the team. The upcoming international fixtures will provide an opportunity for Foden to prove his worth and stake his claim for a starting role at Euro 2024.

Categories: Football
Read more
India Held to Draw by Afghanistan in World Cup Qualifier

India Held to Draw by Afghanistan in World Cup Qualifier

By March 22, 2024 0

Afghanistan’s resilience and India’s attacking deficiencies played out in a stalemate as the two teams drew 0-0 in their 2026 World Cup qualifier on Friday. Despite a significant gap in FIFA rankings, Afghanistan held their ground against India, who remain winless in 2023.

India, ranked 106th, controlled possession but struggled to penetrate Afghanistan’s defense. Their crosses were ineffective, and their midfield lacked control. Afghanistan, ranked 158th, defended resolutely and created a few half-chances of their own.

The first half was a scrappy affair, with both teams feeling aggrieved by penalty decisions that went against them. India’s best chance came from Manvir Singh, who flicked a shot wide after being found by Lallianzuala Chhangte.

After the break, India continued to press but lacked the finesse to break down Afghanistan’s defense. Brandon Fernandes and Subhasish Bose were introduced as substitutes, but their impact was minimal.

India’s best opportunity came in the 80th minute from a corner-kick, but Bose headed wide. The result leaves India in second place in Group A with four points, behind leaders Qatar. Afghanistan remain bottom of the group with one point.

The return fixture in Guwahati on Tuesday will be crucial for both teams. India need a win to keep their hopes of reaching the third round of World Cup qualifying alive. Afghanistan, meanwhile, will be aiming to upset the odds and secure their first victory of the campaign.

Categories: Football
Read more
FC Goa Triumphs Over Bengaluru FC, Ascends to Third Place in ISL

FC Goa Triumphs Over Bengaluru FC, Ascends to Third Place in ISL

By March 15, 2024 0

FC Goa emerged victorious in their Indian Super League encounter against Bengaluru FC, securing a 2-1 win that propelled them to third place in the standings. The Gaurs now boast 36 points from 19 games, while the Blues remain in the lower half of the table.

Bengaluru FC drew first blood within two minutes of kickoff, with Suresh Singh Wangjam delivering a sharp through ball to Chingangbam Shivaldo Singh. Shivaldo received the ball with a deft touch and slotted it past Dheeraj Singh to give the Blues an early advantage.

FC Goa gradually gained control of the game, with Noah Sadaoui testing the Bengaluru FC defense in the 18th minute. The equalizer came four minutes later, as Brandon Fernandes’ corner found Boris Singh at the edge of the box. Singh’s shot took a deflection off Odei Onaindia and landed in the back of the net, leaving Gurpreet Singh Sandhu helpless.

The second half saw FC Goa gain a numerical advantage when Suresh was sent off for a challenge on Boris in the 47th minute. The Gaurs capitalized on their man advantage, dominating possession and creating numerous scoring opportunities.

Their efforts paid off in the 81st minute when Borja Herrera curled in a cross to Boris on the left side of Gurpreet. The former Jamshedpur FC winger made no mistake, netting the winner and securing the crucial three points for his team.

FC Goa’s victory was a testament to their resilience and determination, while Bengaluru FC will be disappointed with their inability to hold on to their early lead. The result leaves the Blues with work to do if they want to climb the standings in the remaining games of the season.

Categories: Football
Read more
Main Menu
Home
Shop
Wishlist0
Back to Top

Search For Products

Product has been added to your cart