Igor Stimac Receives USD 400,000 Compensation from AIFF

Igor Stimac Receives USD 400,000 Compensation from AIFF

Igor Stimac, the former head coach of the Indian men’s national football team, has reached an agreement with the All India Football Federation (AIFF) to receive USD 400,000 (approximately ₹3.36 crore) after tax as compensation for his termination.

Stimac was sacked by the AIFF in June, a year before his contract was set to expire, following India’s elimination from the second round of FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. The sacking sparked a public dispute between Stimac and the AIFF, with the Croat threatening legal action if his dues were not settled within 10 days.

However, the two parties have now reached an amicable resolution. “The AIFF top brass has approved payment of USD 400,000 as compensation to settle the issue with AIFF,” a source close to the development told PTI.

The compensation amount is significant for the AIFF, which has faced financial challenges in recent times and has reduced its competitions budget this year. The federation had initially offered Stimac three months’ salary as compensation, but he rejected the offer and filed a claim with FIFA for USD 920,000 (approximately ₹7.72 crore) as two years’ salary.

Stimac, who was appointed as head coach in 2019, was given an extension until 2026 by the AIFF in October 2021. However, the extension was conditional on the team reaching the quarterfinals of the Asian Cup, a feat that India has never achieved. India finished last in their group in the 2011 and 2015 editions of the continental tournament.

Manolo Marquez has replaced Stimac as the new head coach of the Indian men’s team. Stimac had previously rejected offers from the AIFF to settle for five and then 10 months’ salary.

India and Syria Clash in Intercontinental Cup Final

India and Syria Clash in Intercontinental Cup Final

Hosts India and Syria will face off in a thrilling winner-takes-all clash in the final of the Intercontinental Cup on Monday. India, seeking their second consecutive and third overall Intercontinental Cup triumph, will need to overcome a slight disadvantage against Syria, who require only a draw to claim the trophy.

Syria, with a long history of playing tournaments in India, has yet to secure a title on Indian soil. They lost back-to-back Nehru Cup finals to India in 2007 and 2009 and finished fourth in 2012. In their last trip to India for the 2019 Intercontinental Cup, Syria finished third.

India, on the other hand, will need to end a winless streak dating back to November last year to deny Syria their first silverware in India. India head coach Manolo Márquez, who celebrated his 56th birthday on Saturday, expressed confidence in his team’s ability to win the tournament.

“It will be a difficult game for both sides. It’s a friendly game, but the team who wins the game wins the trophy. We expect to play a good game and win the tournament,” said Márquez.

However, Márquez emphasized the importance of playing good football, believing that results will follow. “If you ask me, I prefer to play a good game than to win the tournament. I don’t want to win it 1-0, scoring with the hand. I want that, in this moment, the team understands our ideas and we play better because finally, it’s not about winning or losing.”

Defender Jay Gupta echoed his coach’s sentiments, stating that the team is focused on adapting to Márquez’s style of play. “Obviously, it’s a game where we have to fight for the cup, but we’re just focused on how we adapt to what the coach wants as soon as possible.”

Syria, under new head coach José Lana, is also in a new era. Lana was pleased with their opening-game display against Mauritius, which they won 2-0. He hopes to continue progressing and improve against India.

“I think India are a great team. I like the way they play with this coach. They try to move the ball fast. I think it will be a difficult match for us. And our only objective for tomorrow is to be better than our previous match,” said Lana.

The match promises to be an exciting battle between two teams eager to claim the Intercontinental Cup trophy.

Germany's New Stars Wirtz and Musiala Shine in 5-0 Hungary Rout

Germany’s New Stars Wirtz and Musiala Shine in 5-0 Hungary Rout

Germany’s new generation of stars, Florian Wirtz and Jamal Musiala, showcased their brilliance in a dominant 5-0 victory over Hungary on Saturday. The young forwards orchestrated goals for each other, highlighting the promising future of German football.

After the retirements of Manuel Neuer, Toni Kroos, Thomas Mueller, and Ilkay Gundogan, Wirtz and Musiala have emerged as the torchbearers for the national team. Their chemistry was evident from the start, as Wirtz’s incisive pass found Musiala, who set up Niclas Fuellkrug for the opening goal.

In the second half, Wirtz’s long pass released Musiala, who doubled Germany’s lead. Musiala then returned the favor, assisting Wirtz for a clinical finish. Aleks Pavlovic and Kai Havertz added further goals to complete the rout.

The convincing win suggests that Germany has the talent to overcome the departures of their veteran players. Wirtz and Musiala, both 21, and Havertz, 25, form a formidable attacking trio that can lead the team to success in the years to come.

“It’s fun to play with Flo,” Musiala said after the match. “We need to keep building our chemistry and use every game to improve.”

Coach Julian Nagelsmann praised the atmosphere in the camp and the chemistry between the players. “When Wirtz and Musiala are on the pitch and they connect with each other, it’s nice to watch,” he said.

Germany’s new-look team also featured Pascal Gross filling in for Kroos and Marc-Andre ter Stegen making his debut as the number one goalkeeper. Fuellkrug, who had struggled to score for West Ham, showed his class with the opening goal.

The victory sets Germany up for a tough test against the Netherlands in Amsterdam on Tuesday. Hungary, meanwhile, will host Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Liverpool Legend Ron Yeats Passes Away at 86

Liverpool Legend Ron Yeats Passes Away at 86

Former Liverpool captain and Scotland defender Ron Yeats, a legendary figure in the club’s history, has passed away at the age of 86. Yeats joined Liverpool from Scottish side Dundee United in 1961 and went on to become a cornerstone of the Merseyside giants’ defense for eight seasons.

During his tenure as captain, Yeats led Liverpool to two Football League First Division titles and their first FA Cup triumph in 1965. His leadership and unwavering determination on the pitch earned him the respect of both teammates and opponents alike.

Yeats’ impact on Liverpool extended beyond his playing days. He served as the club’s assistant manager from 1971 to 1973 and later became a respected member of the coaching staff. His knowledge and experience proved invaluable in nurturing the next generation of Liverpool stars.

Off the field, Yeats was known for his warm personality and infectious enthusiasm. He was a beloved figure among Liverpool fans, who fondly remembered his contributions to the club’s golden era.

In recent years, Yeats had been battling Alzheimer’s disease. He passed away peacefully on Friday, September 6, 2024, surrounded by his family.

Liverpool Football Club paid tribute to their former captain, stating, “The thoughts of everyone at LFC are with Ron’s wife, Ann, all of his family and his friends at this incredibly sad time.”

Ron Yeats’ legacy as a Liverpool legend will forever be etched in the annals of the club’s history. His unwavering spirit, leadership, and dedication to the game will continue to inspire generations of players and fans alike.

Messi Pays Tribute to Retiring Suarez: 'You Deserve the Tribute'

Messi Pays Tribute to Retiring Suarez: ‘You Deserve the Tribute’

Argentine football legend Lionel Messi has paid a heartfelt tribute to his close friend and Inter Miami teammate Luis Suarez following his retirement from international football. Suarez, who has scored 69 goals for Uruguay, announced his decision to step away from the national team after their final match against Paraguay, which ended in a draw.

In a recorded video message, Messi expressed his admiration for Suarez’s dedication and contributions to the Uruguayan national team. “I was lucky to be by your side, and I know how hard it was to make this decision because I know how much playing for the Uruguay national team means to you,” Messi said.

Messi praised Suarez for his unwavering commitment and passion for his country. “You always gave your all, and until the very last day,” he said. “You’re leaving a great legacy for the people today and for the new generations to come.”

Despite their South American rivalry, Messi and Suarez have shared a strong bond since their days at Barcelona, where they formed one of the most formidable attacking trios in football history alongside Neymar. Messi expressed his joy at the prospect of continuing their partnership at Inter Miami.

“I’m happy that those years will be here, that we get to be together again on the same team and enjoy each day,” Messi said.

Suarez was visibly moved by Messi’s words. “I hope you enjoy this night with your loved ones and all the people you’ve always had by your side and wanted close,” Messi concluded.

Messi, who has been out of action since the 2024 Copa America final due to a knee injury, recently returned to Inter Miami’s training. The decision on his return to the field has not yet been made.

MSLK Kicks Off with Star-Studded Roster and Young Talent

MSLK Kicks Off with Star-Studded Roster and Young Talent

The Mahindra Super League Kerala (MSLK), India’s only domestic league allowing foreign players, kicks off on Saturday night at the Nehru Stadium in Kochi. The league has attracted a mix of experienced and talented young players, including former Indian Super League (ISL) champions and top scorers.

Forca Kochi FC coach Mario Lemos emphasized the importance of experienced players mentoring young talents, who aspire to reach higher leagues like the ISL. The league aims to provide a platform for these young players to showcase their skills and bridge the gap to bigger opportunities.

One notable signing is Alex Sanchez, last season’s I-League top scorer, who turned down an ISL offer to remain with Malappuram FC in the MSLK. Malappuram, known for its football enthusiasm, has offered attractive packages to fans, including transportation and refreshments, to encourage attendance at the opening match against Forca Kochi.

Despite the excitement, the league faces challenges. The Kerala Police is yet to release its players, including Santosh Trophy stars, due to pending government clearance. Additionally, some foreign players have not yet joined their teams.

Despite the short pre-season, Lemos remains optimistic and sees Malappuram as a formidable opponent. The opening ceremony will feature performances by Jacqueline Fernandez, Stephen Devassy, and ‘Drums’ Sivamani, followed by the opening match at 8 p.m.

The MSLK aims to fill the void for football fans in Kerala after the ISL season. However, it remains to be seen whether the league can overcome its initial hurdles and establish itself as a viable platform for young players and a source of entertainment for football enthusiasts.

Ronaldo Reaches 900 Goals, Declares Euros Equivalent to World Cup

Ronaldo Reaches 900 Goals, Declares Euros Equivalent to World Cup

Cristiano Ronaldo, the legendary Portuguese forward, has reached the remarkable milestone of 900 career goals. After scoring the winning goal in Portugal’s 2-1 victory over Croatia in the UEFA Nations League, Ronaldo expressed his unwavering belief in his own superiority.

Despite not having won the FIFA World Cup, Ronaldo maintains that Portugal’s triumph in the UEFA Euro is on par with the global quadrennial event. “Portugal winning the Euros is the equivalent of winning the World Cup,” he declared. “I’ve already won two trophies for Portugal that I really wanted, so I’m not motivated by that [World Cup].”

Ronaldo’s sentiments echo those of Kylian Mbappe, who recently joined Real Madrid from Paris Saint-Germain. “For me, [the Euros are] more complicated than a World Cup,” Mbappe said. “Even though there’s more pressure at the World Cup, we know all the teams in the Euros, and it’s tactically similar.”

Ronaldo’s comments have sparked a debate among football fans, with some arguing that the World Cup is the ultimate test of a player’s ability. Lionel Messi, who led Argentina to victory in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, has stated that “the Euros are important, but he [Mbappe] leaves out Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay — all World Cup winners. In the World Cup, you have the best teams in the world. That’s why everyone dreams of being world champion.”

Ronaldo’s goal-scoring prowess is undeniable. He has scored 137 goals for Portugal and has represented Sporting Lisbon, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and Al-Nassr, scoring a total of 900 goals in his illustrious career.

Ronaldo’s achievements have cemented his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time. His unwavering belief in his own abilities and his relentless pursuit of excellence continue to inspire fans around the world.

Chelsea Excludes Palmer from Conference League Squad to Manage Player Overload

Chelsea Excludes Palmer from Conference League Squad to Manage Player Overload

Chelsea’s Palmer Omitted from Conference League Squad Amidst Player Overload Concerns

Chelsea has excluded Cole Palmer from its UEFA Conference League squad to manage his workload in a season that could extend into mid-July. The decision aligns with concerns raised by the global footballers’ union FIFPro about the excessive demands placed on players due to expanding tournaments.

Palmer, who scored in England’s Euro 2024 final defeat, has withdrawn from the England squad for upcoming Nations League matches. FIFPro has urged football governing bodies to prioritize player welfare by implementing minimum rest periods and potentially limiting the number of games played.

Chelsea’s decision also considers the upcoming Club World Cup in the United States, which will run from June 15 to July 13. The Blues will face Gent, Panathinaikos, FC Noah, Heidenheim, Astana, and Shamrock Rovers in the group stage of the Conference League.

Palmer’s exclusion highlights the growing recognition of the need for player rest. The Professional Footballers’ Association has pointed to the impressive form of Manchester City’s Erling Haaland and Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, who both benefited from summer breaks from international duty.

Chelsea’s decision to manage Palmer’s minutes is a proactive measure to prevent burnout and ensure his availability for the crucial latter stages of the season. Should Enzo Maresca’s side progress in the Conference League, Palmer could be added to the squad.

San Marino Ends 20-Year Winless Streak with Historic Victory

San Marino Ends 20-Year Winless Streak with Historic Victory

San Marino, the perennial underdogs of international football, etched their name in history on Thursday by securing their first-ever competitive victory. The tiny nation, nestled within the heart of Italy, stunned Liechtenstein 1-0 in the UEFA Nations League, ending a remarkable 140-game winless streak that had spanned over two decades.

The match at San Marino’s Stadio Olimpico was a tale of resilience and determination for the home side. Liechtenstein, ranked 195th in the FIFA rankings, had the better of the chances in the first half, but a disallowed goal for offside kept the scores level.

The breakthrough came in the 53rd minute when San Marino capitalized on a defensive lapse by Liechtenstein. Nicko Sensoli, a 19-year-old forward, pounced on a loose ball and fired home the historic goal. The stadium erupted in jubilation as the team celebrated their long-awaited triumph.

San Marino’s victory is a testament to the unwavering spirit of the players and the unwavering support of their fans. Despite being the lowest-ranked team in the world, they refused to be defined by their past failures. Their recent string of draws in friendly matches against Seychelles, Saint Lucia, and Saint Kitts and Nevis had hinted at a growing confidence within the squad.

The win against Liechtenstein is a watershed moment for San Marino. It marks the end of a painful chapter in their footballing history and signals a new era of hope and optimism. The team’s performance in the UEFA Nations League, where they are grouped with Liechtenstein and Gibraltar, will be closely watched as they aim to build on their historic victory.

Ronaldo's 900th Goal Powers Portugal to Nations League Victory

Ronaldo’s 900th Goal Powers Portugal to Nations League Victory

Cristiano Ronaldo etched his name into footballing history on Thursday, scoring his 900th career goal to lead Portugal to a 2-1 victory over Croatia in their Nations League opener.

The 39-year-old superstar reached the milestone in the 34th minute, tapping in from close range after a perfect cross from Nuno Mendes. The goal was a testament to Ronaldo’s enduring brilliance and his ability to find the back of the net even at the twilight of his career.

Portugal had taken an early lead through Diogo Dalot, who fired home in the seventh minute after a clever pass from Bruno Fernandes. However, Dalot’s night took a turn for the worse when he deflected a sliding effort from Borna Sosa into his own net four minutes from the break, giving Croatia a lifeline.

Despite Croatia’s late surge, Portugal held on for a hard-fought victory. The win gives them a strong start to their Nations League campaign, as they look to defend their title.

In the other League A Group 1 game, Poland edged out Scotland 3-2 in a thrilling encounter. The Poles took the lead through Robert Lewandowski, but Scotland fought back to level the scores. However, Poland ultimately prevailed, with goals from Arkadiusz Milik and Krzysztof Piatek securing the victory.

Portugal will host Scotland on Sunday, while Croatia will entertain Poland. Both matches promise to be exciting affairs, as the teams look to make their mark in the Nations League.

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