India's World Cup Qualifier Hopes Hit by Ralte's Exam Conflict

India’s World Cup Qualifier Hopes Hit by Ralte’s Exam Conflict

Lalengmawia Ralte, a key midfielder for the Indian national football team, faces a potential dilemma as his university examination conflicts with India’s crucial World Cup qualifier against Kuwait on June 6. The match holds immense significance as India aims to qualify for the third round of a World Cup qualifying cycle for the first time.

Ralte, who has earned 18 senior team caps, has reportedly requested to be excused from the preparatory camp due to his exam. However, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) has asked him to discuss the matter with head coach Igor Stimac.

In addition to Ralte’s potential absence, India may also miss Akash Mishra, Rahul KP, and Mohammed Yasir due to injuries. Skipper Sunil Chhetri could also join the camp later than May 10 due to a family illness.

Ralte’s absence would be a significant blow to India’s midfield. In the recently concluded Indian Super League (ISL) season, he played a pivotal role for Mumbai City FC, boasting an 85% passing accuracy and creating 17 chances. He was named player of the match in the final against Mohun Bagan Super Giant.

Mumbai City coach Petr Krakty praised Ralte’s performance, saying, “Apuiah (Ralte’s nickname) handled the team fantastically.” He added that Ralte deserves “a bit more recognition” despite other Indian players scoring goals.

India’s chances of qualifying for the third round of the World Cup qualifiers hinge on the results of their matches against Kuwait and Qatar. A victory against Kuwait would boost their hopes, while a defeat could jeopardize their chances.

The AIFF is hopeful that Ralte will be able to resolve the conflict between his exam and the national team’s commitments. However, if he is unable to participate, India will have to find a suitable replacement to fill the void in their midfield.

Sussex Chairman Dismisses Breakaway League Fears Over Hundred Ownership Changes

Sussex Chairman Dismisses Breakaway League Fears Over Hundred Ownership Changes

Sussex chairman Jon Filby has dismissed the notion of a breakaway league by the Hundred-hosting counties as “completely not to be feared.” The ECB and the 18 first-class counties have been engaged in discussions regarding changes to the Hundred’s ownership model, with a proposal to open up the eight teams to private investment.

However, the counties have yet to reach an agreement on revenue sharing. The ECB initially requested a decision by May 10, but the non-host counties are seeking independent advice, potentially delaying the process. Filby emphasized the importance of thorough due diligence before making a decision.

Despite concerns raised by ECB chief executive Richard Gould about losing momentum, Filby expressed confidence in reaching a deal. He acknowledged the need to capitalize on the Hundred’s upcoming season as a showcase for the competition.

The prospect of a breakaway league has been raised, but Filby believes it is unlikely. He questioned the viability of such a league, given the lack of opposition and player availability.

The non-host counties are reportedly seeking a fair distribution of revenues, with Filby stating that they will not be rushed into a decision. He emphasized the need for a clear position before the Hundred’s season concludes.

The discussions over the Hundred’s future have highlighted the growing influence of the top counties in English cricket. Leicestershire chief executive Sean Jarvis has compared the situation to the Premier League in football. However, Filby believes that the non-host counties should remain firm in their negotiations.

Leverkusen Poised to Break 59-Year European Unbeaten Record

Leverkusen Poised to Break 59-Year European Unbeaten Record

Xabi Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen, on the cusp of a historic achievement, will face Roma in the second leg of the Europa League semi-final on Thursday. With a 2-0 advantage from the first leg, Leverkusen is poised to extend their unbeaten streak to 49 games, surpassing Benfica’s 59-year-old European football record.

Leverkusen’s remarkable run has already eclipsed Juventus’ 43-match unbeaten streak from 2011 to 2012. A victory or even a one-goal loss against Roma would secure their place in the Europa League final in Dublin.

The pursuit of an unbeaten season has become a driving force for Leverkusen. Goalkeeper and captain Lukas Hradecky believes it provides “extra motivation” and is a testament to the team’s resilience.

Despite Alonso’s suspension, Leverkusen cruised to a 5-1 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt on Sunday, showcasing their depth and determination. They are also through to the German Cup final and have already secured the Bundesliga title.

Former Leverkusen coach Rudi Voeller praised Alonso’s “brave and adventurous” decision to hire him and highlighted the team’s exceptional squad depth. He believes that Leverkusen’s ability to strengthen not only their starting lineup but also their reserves is the key to their unbeaten run.

Leverkusen is expected to welcome back Florian Wirtz and Alex Grimaldo for the second leg against Roma. Wirtz, a key attacking midfielder, has been instrumental in Leverkusen’s Europa League campaign with four goals and four assists.

With a near-full-strength squad and the home advantage, Leverkusen is well-positioned to break Benfica’s record and continue their pursuit of an unprecedented treble.

Dortmund Stuns PSG, Mbappé Departs Without Champions League Glory

Dortmund Stuns PSG, Mbappé Departs Without Champions League Glory

Borussia Dortmund’s triumph over Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League semi-finals has sent shockwaves through the football world. The German club’s 2-0 aggregate victory was sealed by Mats Hummels’ header in the second leg at the Parc des Princes, sending Dortmund to the final at Wembley Stadium on June 1.

Kylian Mbappé, PSG’s star forward, was a notable absentee from the celebrations. The French international, who is widely expected to join Real Madrid at the end of the season, cut a dejected figure as he left the field for the final time in a PSG jersey in the Champions League.

Dortmund’s victory was a testament to their defensive resilience and tactical discipline. They contained Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé effectively, limiting their attacking threat. Emre Can’s presence in midfield provided a solid shield for the defense, while Karim Adeyemi’s pace on the counter-attack caused PSG problems.

PSG, despite their star-studded lineup, lacked the efficiency and composure to break down Dortmund’s defense. They hit the woodwork three times, including a glaring miss from Warren Zaïre-Emery from close range. Gianluigi Donnarumma’s failure to claim Hummels’ header from a corner proved costly.

Dortmund’s victory is a major upset, considering PSG’s financial muscle and the presence of Mbappé. It highlights the importance of teamwork, organization, and tactical discipline in football. The German club will now face either Real Madrid or Bayern Munich in the final, where they will aim to lift their second Champions League trophy.

Igor Stimac Announces Second List of Probables for FIFA World Cup Qualifiers

Igor Stimac Announces Second List of Probables for FIFA World Cup Qualifiers

Indian football’s senior men’s team head coach Igor Stimac has unveiled his second list of 15 probables for the Bhubaneswar camp in preparation for the FIFA World Cup 2026 preliminary joint qualification round 2 matches against Kuwait and Qatar. This announcement follows the release of the first list of 26 probables on Saturday.

The 26 players from the first list will commence training in the Odisha capital on May 10. The 15 players from the second list, comprising players from Mumbai City FC and Mohun Bagan SG who contested the ISL Cup final, will join the camp on May 15.

A total of 41 players will participate in the national camp. The Blue Tigers will face Kuwait in Kolkata on June 6 before traveling to Qatar on June 11 for their final two matches of Group A.

India currently stands second in the group with four points from four matches. The top two teams in the group will advance to Round 3 of the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers and secure their place at the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027.

Second List of 15 Probables for Bhubaneswar Camp (Training from May 15):

* Goalkeepers: Phurba Tempa Lachenpa, Vishal Kaith
* Defenders: Akash Mishra, Anwar Ali, Mehtab Singh, Rahul Bheke, Subhasish Bose
* Midfielders: Anirudh Thapa, Deepak Tangri, Lalengmawia Ralte, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Liston Colaco, Sahal Abdul Samad
* Forwards: Manvir Singh, Vikram Partap Singh

First List of 26 Probables for Bhubaneswar Camp (Training from May 10):

* Goalkeepers: Amrinder Singh, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu
* Defenders: Amey Ganesh Ranawade, Jay Gupta, Lalchungnunga, Muhammad Hammad, Narender, Nikhil Poojary, Roshan Singh Naorem
* Midfielders: Brandon Fernandes, Edmund Lalrindika, Imran Khan, Isak Vanlalruatfela, Jeakson Singh Thounaojam, Mahesh Singh Naorem, Mohammad Yasir, Nandhakumar Sekar, Rahul Kannoly Praveen, Suresh Singh Wangjam, Vibin Mohanan
* Forwards: David Lalhlansanga, Jithin Madathil Subran, Lalrinzuala, Parthib Sundar Gogoi, Rahim Ali, Sunil Chhetri

Manchester United Thrashed 4-0 by Crystal Palace, European Hopes Fading

Manchester United Thrashed 4-0 by Crystal Palace, European Hopes Fading

Manchester United’s hopes of European football next season suffered a major blow as they were thrashed 4-0 by Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Monday. The defeat leaves United in eighth place in the Premier League table with just 54 points from 35 games, two points behind Newcastle United in sixth.

A makeshift United defense, which included Casemiro at center-back, was easily exploited by Palace on several occasions. Jean-Philippe Mateta and Tyrick Mitchell were also on the scoresheet for the impressive win, while Michael Olise scored a brace.

United had several injury absentees and were without Bruno Fernandes, but the ease with which they were beaten will be a huge concern for everyone at the club.

“A big disappointment. We just had an off-day and we weren’t in it,” midfielder Christian Eriksen told BBC. “It is what it is. We can’t really change the injury things. We have to do what we can on the pitch to change it.”

“Today it didn’t matter who we played. Everyone could have done better. We tried to do what we could but we were not good enough. We’ll take the blame as players.”

It is the first time in the Premier League era that United have lost 13 games in a season, and the scoreline could have been worse.

The home side took the lead inside 12 minutes as Olise collected a throw and evaded a limp challenge from Casemiro. With no United player attempting to close him down, he was able to unleash a low shot from just inside the box.

It was 2-0 five minutes before the break as Mateta breezed past United defender Jonny Evans and thrashed the ball into the net for a ninth goal in 11 games since the arrival of Glasner in February.

The striker had scored 11 goals in his previous 80 games for Palace before that.

United’s makeshift defense was struggling to contain the movement of their hosts, and when Diogo Dalot failed to deal with a ball to the back post, Mitchell had a tap-in.

Olise’s second goal added more salt to the wound, and it could have been worse for the visitors as Odsonne Edouard saw his shot come back off the woodwork late on.

“I think we could have got a few more. That shows the potential we have to play against any team in the league,” Palace defender Chris Richards said.

Indian Relay Teams Qualify for Paris Olympics, Achieving Dreams and Justifying Choices

Indian Relay Teams Qualify for Paris Olympics, Achieving Dreams and Justifying Choices

Indian Relay Teams Secure Olympic Berths, Fulfilling Dreams and Justifying Choices

The Indian men’s and women’s 4x400m relay teams have achieved a significant milestone by qualifying for the Paris Olympics. This accomplishment holds profound meaning for each member, representing redemption, fulfillment, and the validation of early life decisions.

Women’s Team:

* MR Poovamma: After enduring a two-year doping ban, Poovamma’s Olympic qualification marks a triumphant return. The decorated athlete has won multiple medals in the 400m and 4x400m relay at the Asian Games.
* Rupal Chaudhary: The 19-year-old made history as the first Indian to win two medals at the World U20 Athletics Championship. Despite humble beginnings, she has overcome challenges to achieve success.
* Jyothika Dandi Sri: Driven by her father’s Olympic aspirations, Jyothika has dedicated herself to the sport. She has been part of the Indian team that won bronze at the Asian Championships.
* Subha Venkatesan: The daughter of a construction worker, Subha’s journey began at the insistence of her grandfather. She has won medals in national meets and was part of the silver-winning team at the 2018 Asian Junior Championships.

Men’s Team:

* Muhammed Anas: The national record holder and two-time Olympian, Anas has won medals at the Asian Games and Asian Championships. He was part of the Indian relay teams at the Tokyo Olympics.
* Muhammed Ajmal Variyathodi: A former football player, Ajmal switched to running and has been part of the gold-winning 4x400m relay team at the 2017 Asian Championships.
* Amoj Jacob: Born in Kerala but raised in Delhi, Jacob began his sporting journey in football before transitioning to sprinting. He was part of the gold-winning 4x400m relay team at the 2017 Asian Championships.
* Arokia Rajiv: The son of a state-level sprinter, Rajiv is an Armyman who has won medals in the 4x400m relay at the Asian Games. He was part of the Tokyo Olympics relay team that broke the Asian record.

For these athletes, Olympic qualification represents a culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and unwavering determination. It is a testament to their resilience, talent, and the support of their families and coaches.

Celta Vigo Boost Survival Hopes, Granada Relegation Looms

Celta Vigo Boost Survival Hopes, Granada Relegation Looms

Celta Vigo’s dramatic 3-2 victory over Villarreal on Sunday has boosted their chances of La Liga survival, while Granada’s 3-0 defeat at Sevilla has all but sealed their relegation.

Anastasios Douvikas’ late goal secured Celta’s triumph at Balaidos against a depleted Villarreal side, who had Santi Comesana dismissed after just 17 minutes for a reckless tackle. The Galicians now hold an eight-point advantage over the relegation zone with four matches remaining.

Granada’s hopes of avoiding the drop took a significant blow with their heavy defeat at Sevilla. The Andalucians appear destined to join Almeria in the second division next season, while Cadiz, currently 18th, still harbor hopes of salvation.

Despite losing to Real Madrid on Saturday, Villarreal’s chances of survival were boosted by Rayo Vallecano’s 1-0 defeat at Almeria on Sunday. Cadiz trail Mallorca by six points and Rayo and Celta by eight.

Alaves dealt a blow to Valencia’s European aspirations with a 1-0 victory at Mestalla, leaving Ruben Baraja’s team eighth in the standings. Real Betis, seventh, secured a 2-0 win at Osasuna to move five points clear of Valencia in the race for European football. With Copa del Rey champions Athletic Bilbao already guaranteed a Europa League spot, a top-seven finish will secure continental qualification.

Sporting Lisbon Crowned Champions of Portugal After Benfica's Defeat

Sporting Lisbon Crowned Champions of Portugal After Benfica’s Defeat

Sporting Lisbon has emerged victorious as the champions of Portugal for the second time in 21 years, following Benfica’s defeat on Sunday. The triumph marks a remarkable achievement for Sporting, who have dominated the league with an impressive 92 goals in 32 matches.

Ruben Amorim’s side secured the title after a convincing 3-0 victory over Portimonense on Saturday, while their rivals Benfica stumbled to a 2-0 loss at Famalicao. With just two games remaining in the season, Sporting holds an unassailable eight-point lead over Benfica.

Amorim’s team has been a force to be reckoned with throughout the campaign, losing only twice. Their success is largely attributed to the prolific goalscoring of Swedish forward Viktor Gyokeres, who has netted 27 times this season. Gyokeres’s contribution has been instrumental in Sporting’s title triumph.

The club’s resurgence under Amorim is a testament to his tactical acumen and leadership. The former Benfica player has now guided Sporting to two league titles in his tenure, including the 2020/21 season.

Sporting’s triumph is a significant milestone for the club, which has a rich history in Portuguese football. The victory marks their 20th league title, trailing only Porto (30) and Benfica (38).

The club’s success is not limited to the league. Sporting will face Porto in the Portuguese Cup final on May 26, aiming to secure a double. A victory in the cup final would cap off a remarkable season for Sporting and further cement their status as one of Portugal’s top clubs.

Legendary Argentine Coach Cesar Luis Menotti Passes Away at 85

Legendary Argentine Coach Cesar Luis Menotti Passes Away at 85

Cesar Luis Menotti, the legendary Argentine coach who guided his nation to their maiden World Cup triumph in 1978, has passed away at the age of 85. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) announced the sad news on Sunday, expressing their profound sorrow at the loss of a true football icon.

Menotti’s coaching career spanned 37 years, during which he managed 11 clubs and two national teams, Argentina and Mexico. However, his legacy will forever be intertwined with the 1978 World Cup, held on home soil during a tumultuous period in Argentina’s history.

Despite the political turmoil, Menotti’s Argentina team emerged victorious, defeating the Netherlands 3-1 in extra time in the final. The tournament was marked by the brilliance of Mario Kempes, who scored twice in the final, and the absence of Johan Cruyff, who had boycotted the World Cup.

Menotti’s decision not to select the teenage prodigy Diego Maradona, who had made his international debut the previous year, remains a topic of debate. However, his tactical acumen and ability to inspire his players were undeniable.

After his World Cup triumph, Menotti continued to coach at the highest level, including a stint with Spanish giants Barcelona. He also had a successful spell with the Mexican national team, where he is fondly remembered for his contributions to the development of Mexican football.

Menotti’s passing has been met with an outpouring of grief and tributes from the football world. Argentine President Javier Milei expressed his “deep pain” at the loss of a leader who had brought immense joy to the nation. Former Mexican international Carlos Hermosillo hailed Menotti as a “teacher of teachers” and credited him with his success as a goal scorer.

Spanish journalist Jose Ramon Fernandez, who worked alongside Menotti as a broadcast analyst, praised his intelligence, erudition, and pleasant demeanor. Barcelona also extended their condolences, acknowledging Menotti’s contributions as their former coach.

Cesar Luis Menotti’s legacy as a football visionary and a master tactician will endure for generations to come. His impact on the game, both in Argentina and beyond, is immeasurable.

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