India’s U20 football team put up a valiant effort but ultimately fell short against four-time champions Iran in their second group match of the AFC U20 Asian Cup Qualifiers. Despite holding their formidable opponents at bay for most of the contest, India conceded a late goal in the 88th minute, handing Iran a 1-0 victory.
The Blue Colts displayed commendable resilience against a team considered among the traditional powers of Asian football. With three points from two matches, India’s hopes of finishing second in the group and advancing to the tournament proper remain alive. The top teams of the 10 groups, along with the five best second-place finishers, will qualify for the AFC U20 Asian Cup 2025 in China.
India, currently second in the group with a 4-2 goal difference, will face hosts Laos in their final match on Sunday. Laos lost 0-8 to Iran in their first match. Iran, with six points, remains at the top of the group.
The first half was a relatively even affair, with India holding their own against their skilled rivals. The Indians created several chances to break into the Iranian territory but were unable to capitalize. Iran, on the other hand, struggled to break through India’s resolute defense, with their first real opportunity coming in the 38th minute. However, striker Kasra Taheri’s header went over the bar.
India remained positive in the second half and continued to probe the Iranian defense. They had a strong penalty appeal turned down in the 54th minute, and Korou Singh Thingujam narrowly missed the target with a shot just before the hour mark.
As Iran grew increasingly frustrated in their search for a goal, they began to exert more pressure. They won a series of corners and forced India’s goalkeeper, Priyansh Dubey, into a diving save. However, the Indian resilience was finally broken in the 88th minute when substitute Yousef Mazraeh found the bottom corner of the net from inside the box.
Despite the defeat, India’s performance was a credit to their determination and tactical discipline. They will now look to secure a positive result against Laos in their final group match and keep their hopes of qualifying for the AFC U20 Asian Cup alive.
Former Real Madrid and Italy forward Antonio Cassano has launched a scathing attack on Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, claiming that despite his prolific goalscoring record, Ronaldo lacks the fundamental skills of the game.
Cassano, who played for Real Madrid from 2006 to 2008, a year before Ronaldo’s arrival, believes that Ronaldo’s obsession with scoring goals has come at the expense of his overall contribution to the team.
“Cristiano Ronaldo doesn’t know how to play football,” Cassano asserted on the Viva El Futbol podcast. “He could score 3000 goals, I don’t give a fk. [Gonzalo] Higuain, [Sergio] Aguero, [Karim] Benzema, [Robert] Lewandowski, [Zlatan] Ibrahimovic, and [Luis] Suarez knew how to link-up with the team. They knew how to do a lot of things, unlike Ronaldo whose only objective has always been to score.”
Cassano’s criticism stems from his belief that Ronaldo’s individualistic style of play hinders his ability to effectively collaborate with his teammates. He argues that players like Aguero, Lewandowski, and Benzema possess a more well-rounded skillset that allows them to contribute to the team’s overall performance.
Despite his criticism, Cassano acknowledges Ronaldo’s remarkable goalscoring prowess. Ronaldo recently scored his 900th goal for club and country, a testament to his exceptional finishing ability. However, Cassano maintains that Ronaldo’s goalscoring exploits do not compensate for his perceived deficiencies in other areas of the game.
Ronaldo’s recent move to Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr has sparked debate about his motivations and the twilight of his career. Cassano’s comments add fuel to the fire, suggesting that Ronaldo’s legacy may be tarnished by his perceived lack of all-around ability.
India’s U20 football team made a triumphant start to their AFC U20 Asian Cup qualifiers campaign, securing a convincing 4-1 victory over Mongolia on Wednesday. The Blue Colts dominated the match from the outset, relentlessly attacking the Mongolian defense.
Kelvin Singh Taorem opened the scoring for India in the 20th minute with a curling corner that eluded the goalkeeper. Despite Mongolia’s captain being sent off in the 28th minute, they managed to equalize just before halftime through Temulen Uuganbat.
Undeterred, India stepped up their assault in the second half. Manglenthang Kipgen scored two quick goals in the 51st and 54th minutes, restoring India’s lead. Korou Singh Thingujam sealed the victory with a goal in the 85th minute.
India’s victory was a testament to their superior skill and determination. They controlled possession throughout the match and created numerous scoring opportunities. Mongolia, despite their numerical disadvantage, showed resilience and managed to score a consolation goal.
The Blue Colts will now face Iran and hosts Laos in their remaining Group G matches. A win against either team will secure their place in the knockout stage.
Raphael Varane, the former French international and Real Madrid defender, has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 31. The announcement comes after a glittering career that saw him win a World Cup title with France in 2018 and numerous club trophies with Real Madrid.
Varane began his career at Lens in France before moving to Real Madrid in 2011. He quickly established himself as a key player for the Spanish giants, forming a formidable partnership with Sergio Ramos at the heart of the defense. During his time at Real Madrid, Varane won four Champions League titles, three La Liga titles, and numerous other domestic and international trophies.
In 2018, Varane played a pivotal role in France’s World Cup triumph in Russia. He was named the tournament’s best defender after helping France keep clean sheets in four of their seven matches. Varane’s performances at the World Cup further cemented his reputation as one of the best defenders in the world.
After the World Cup, Varane moved to Manchester United in 2021. However, his time in England was hampered by injuries, and he was restricted to just 95 appearances in three seasons. Despite his injury struggles, Varane remained a key figure in the Manchester United dressing room, providing guidance and support to his younger teammates.
Varane’s retirement marks the end of an era for French football. He was part of a golden generation of players that included Kylian Mbappé, Antoine Griezmann, and Paul Pogba. Together, they helped France win the World Cup in 2018 and reach the final of the 2022 World Cup.
Varane’s legacy as a defender is secure. He was a world-class player who combined physical strength with technical ability. He was also a leader on and off the pitch, and his retirement will be a significant loss for the football world.
Virat Kohli, the legendary Indian cricketer, has extended his sporting prowess beyond the cricket field by co-owning FC Goa, a prominent team in the Indian Super League (ISL). Kohli’s passion for football has driven his involvement in the club, reflecting his desire to contribute to the growth of sports in India.
FC Goa was one of the founding franchises of the ISL, established in 2014 to revolutionize Indian football. Kohli, a fervent football enthusiast, recognized the opportunity to support the development of the sport and became a co-owner of the Goa-based club. His involvement was not merely financial but stemmed from a genuine love for the game.
Kohli has often shared his childhood memories of playing football, emphasizing its role in his fitness regimen. He has expressed that if not for cricket, he might have pursued football professionally. His association with FC Goa provided a platform to channel this passion into action, supporting a team in a region with a rich footballing heritage.
Kohli’s presence has significantly boosted the visibility of the ISL and FC Goa. His immense fan following in India and abroad has drawn attention to the league, contributing to its growth and popularity. As one of the most recognizable names in Indian sports, Kohli’s involvement has added credibility and legitimacy to the ISL, which was still in its early stages when FC Goa was launched.
While Kohli acknowledges that he is still learning the intricacies of football ownership, his influence extends beyond the financial aspect. He actively supports youth development programs, grassroots initiatives, and advocates for creating a sports culture in India. FC Goa, under Kohli and the other owners, has become one of the most competitive teams in the league, known for its attacking style and nurturing local talent.
For Kohli, owning a football team aligns with his broader vision of promoting sports in India. He believes that football has immense potential for growth, and his involvement with FC Goa is a step towards building a culture where football is as popular as cricket. His journey with FC Goa highlights his commitment to contributing to the rise of football in India while balancing his own legendary cricket career.
Cristiano Ronaldo, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, is currently plying his trade in Saudi Arabia. Despite his advanced age of 39, Ronaldo remains determined to maintain peak fitness in preparation for the 2022 World Cup.
In a recent interview, French legend Emmanuel Petit heaped praise on Ronaldo, labeling him the “greatest role model” in football history. Petit highlighted Ronaldo’s humble beginnings at Sporting Lisbon and his unwavering ambition to reach the pinnacle of the sport.
“He has a big ego, but that ego drove him on every single day to be the very best he could,” Petit said. “He has set the example for 15 years and I have huge respect for him.”
Throughout his illustrious career, Ronaldo has amassed an astonishing collection of accolades. He has won five Ballon d’Or awards, a record three UEFA Men’s Player of the Year awards, and four European Golden Shoes.
His trophy cabinet boasts 33 major titles, including seven league championships, five Champions Leagues, Euro 2016, and the Nations League.
Ronaldo also holds numerous individual records, including most appearances (183), goals (140), and assists (42) in the Champions League. He has also made the most appearances (30), provided the most assists (8), and scored the most goals (14) in the Euros.
With 132 international goals and 214 international appearances, Ronaldo is Portugal’s all-time leading scorer and most capped player.
As he approaches the twilight of his career, Ronaldo remains an inspiration to aspiring footballers worldwide. His unwavering determination, relentless pursuit of excellence, and exceptional longevity serve as a testament to his greatness.
Football is more than just a sport—it’s a religion, a culture, and for many, a lifelong passion. From the streets of Buenos Aires to the bustling stadiums of London, football has the power to unite and divide people like few things in the world can.
The passion and unity that this global sport generates are evident in the sport’s most legendary rivalries. These matches are more than just games; they’re showdowns filled with history, emotion, and drama.
Football rivalries are about more than just winning. They’re about identity, history, and the never-ending desire to prove who is the best.
Whether it’s the political overtones of El Clásico, the social divisions of the Superclásico, or the sheer passion of the Old Firm, these rivalries bring out the best—and sometimes the worst—in the sport.
As fans, we live for these matchups, knowing that for 90 minutes, football becomes more than just a game—it becomes a battle of wills, pride, and passion.
Let’s take a global tour of some of the fiercest football rivalries that have shaped the sport.
Top 10 fiercest rivalries in the Football World
1. El Clásico: Real Madrid vs. Barcelona (Spain)
Arguably the most famous football rivalry in the world, El Clásico is a clash between two football giants—Real Madrid and FC Barcelona. This rivalry goes beyond football; it has deep political, cultural, and regional significance. Real Madrid is seen as a symbol of Spanish nationalism and establishment, while Barcelona is often associated with Catalan pride and independence.
On the pitch, El Clásico has produced some of the most memorable moments in football history. Legends like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Zinedine Zidane, and Ronaldinho have all left their mark on this fixture. With titles, pride, and bragging rights on the line, the intensity of El Clásico never fades. It’s a fixture that the world stops to watch.
2. Superclásico: Boca Juniors vs. River Plate (Argentina)
Few rivalries match the sheer passion and chaos of the Superclásico between Boca Juniors and River Plate in Argentina. These two Buenos Aires-based clubs have been at war since 1913. While River Plate is traditionally associated with the wealthier northern parts of the city, Boca Juniors represents the working-class neighbourhoods of the south.
The match isn’t just about football—it’s about social identity. Boca’s fans, known as “La Doce” (The Twelfth Man), and River’s “Los Borrachos del Tablón” (The Drunks of the Stand) create an electric atmosphere. Flares, banners, chants, and the occasional riot make this rivalry one of the most volatile and thrilling in football. Superclásico isn’t for the faint-hearted, but it’s a spectacle of passion and dedication that few sports rivalries can match.
3. Derby della Madonnina: AC Milan vs. Inter Milan (Italy)
The Derby della Madonnina is one of the biggest fixtures in Italian football, pitting AC Milan against their city rivals, Inter Milan. Both clubs share the iconic San Siro Stadium, and the rivalry is a mix of historic competition for titles and local bragging rights.
This Milanese derby has been the stage for great players like Paolo Maldini, Javier Zanetti, Ronaldo Nazário, and Zlatan Ibrahimović. Unlike some rivalries, there is no clear class or political division here—it’s a pure, football-driven rivalry. The winner earns the right to rule Milan, but the outcome of this match often shapes Serie A title races as well.
4. The Old Firm: Celtic vs. Rangers (Scotland)
One of the oldest and most politically charged rivalries in football is the Old Firm Derby between Celtic and Rangers. These Glasgow-based clubs have been fierce competitors for over a century, but their rivalry goes beyond football. Celtic, founded by Irish immigrants, is historically associated with the Catholic community, while Rangers is linked to the Protestant population.
Matches between these two are fiercely contested, with tensions running high both on and off the pitch. The Old Firm Derby is often a fiery encounter, with passionate fan bases clashing not only over football but over religion, politics, and national identity. It’s a rivalry that divides Scotland and captivates the world.
5. North West Derby: Manchester United vs. Liverpool (England)
In England, no rivalry stirs the emotions quite like the North West Derby between Manchester United and Liverpool. This rivalry is fueled by more than just football—it’s a clash of two of England’s most successful clubs, representing two of the country’s most storied cities.
While Manchester United has enjoyed more success in the Premier League era, Liverpool dominated the 1970s and 1980s. The fierce competition for domestic and European glory has kept the rivalry alive for decades. Matches between these two clubs are always heated, with fans across the world glued to their screens. It’s not just about points; it’s about history, pride, and legacy.
6. Arsenal vs. Tottenham Hotspur (England)
Known as the North London Derby, the rivalry between Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur is one of England’s most fiercely contested fixtures. Arsenal’s move from south to north London in 1913 sparked tensions with Tottenham, and the rivalry has only grown since.
The games between these two clubs are about local pride as much as they are about league positions. Arsenal has historically been the more successful club, but Tottenham’s resurgence in recent years has intensified the rivalry. Fans on both sides consider this fixture the most important of the season, making it a must-watch for any football fan.
7. Paris Saint-Germain vs. Olympique de Marseille (France)
In France, the biggest rivalry is between Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Olympique de Marseille, known as Le Classique. This fixture is more than just a clash between two teams; it’s a reflection of the divide between Paris and the south of France. Marseille is seen as the rebellious underdog, representing working-class grit, while PSG embodies the wealth and glamour of the French capital.
The rivalry intensified in the 1990s when both teams were at the top of French football. With PSG’s recent financial dominance, the matches have become even more heated, with Marseille looking to spoil the Parisian party. The animosity between the fan bases and the significance of the match make it a fierce contest every time they meet.
8. Mohun Bagan vs. East Bengal (India)
In the football-crazy city of Kolkata, India, the Kolkata Derby between Mohun Bagan and East Bengal is an iconic fixture. The rivalry started in 1925 and has since become a cultural phenomenon, dividing families, friends, and neighbourhoods.
East Bengal is historically associated with refugees from East Bengal (now Bangladesh), while Mohun Bagan represents the local populace. The matches are attended by tens of thousands of passionate fans, and the atmosphere is as intense as any of the world’s major derbies. With the rise of the Indian Super League, the rivalry continues to capture the imagination of football lovers in India.
9. Fenerbahçe vs. Galatasaray (Turkey)
The rivalry between Fenerbahçe and Galatasaray is the biggest in Turkish football and one of the most intense in the world. Known as the Intercontinental Derby, it reflects not just the footballing competition but also a divide between the European and Asian sides of Istanbul, where the two clubs are based. Fenerbahçe represents the Asian side, while Galatasaray is based on the European side of the Bosphorus.
The matches are fiercely competitive, with an intense atmosphere created by both sets of fans. The Turkish passion for football is unmatched, and this derby is often marred by pitch invasions, clashes, and flares. The Intercontinental Derby isn’t just about football—it’s a war for Istanbul.
10. Der Klassiker: Bayern Munich vs. Borussia Dortmund (Germany)
In Germany, Der Klassiker between Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund is the country’s premier football rivalry. Bayern Munich, the most successful club in German history, often finds itself in competition with Dortmund, whose passionate fans and competitive spirit make them one of Europe’s top clubs.
Der Klassiker usually has title implications, as both teams are consistently fighting for Bundesliga supremacy. The rivalry has become more heated in recent years as Dortmund has mounted serious challenges to Bayern’s dominance. Matches between these two are a spectacle of attacking football, incredible atmospheres, and drama.
So, these are the few fiercest rivalries witnessed by the football world over the years. Comment down below your favourite ones and why.
Galaxy Racer (GXR), a leading transmedia powerhouse based in Dubai, has emerged as the Home for European Football fans across the Indian subcontinent. The Galaxy Racer app has commenced LIVE streams of the Spanish LALIGA, the Italian Serie A – as well as the Coppa Italia and Supercoppa Italiana – and the French Ligue 1 McDonald’s and Ligue 2 BKT starting from the 2024/25 season kick-off.
GXR has bagged the official media rights partnership for these 3 premier European Leagues featuring legendary football clubs like FC Barcelona, Real Madrid CF and Atletico de Madrid in the Spanish LALIGA for the next six years, AC Milan, Juventus and Inter Milan of the Serie A for the next four years and not to forget PSG, Olympique de Marseille and Olympique Lyonnais from the French Ligue 1 McDonald’s for four seasons as a minimum.
Importantly, GXR is airing the matches of these three leagues LIVE on a FREE TO AIR basis for fans in the Indian Subcontinent. With this move, GXR is poised to establish itself as the premier football platform in India, transforming the way fans interact with the sport and creating deeper connections through a fan-first approach.
As part of this ground-breaking partnership, GXR will not only provide high-quality streaming of top European football leagues, but also offer an immersive fan experience through its innovative Super App. The App promises to evolve beyond traditional streaming by integrating fan engagement tools, news, chat features and real-money gaming in the future updates, creating a comprehensive football ecosystem tailored to the Indian market.
Paul Roy, CEO, Galaxy Racer (GXR), said: “Football is more than a sport; it’s a passion that millions of fans across India consume with great enthusiasm. The appetite for high-quality football content in India is immense, and with GXR’s Super App, we aim to cater to this demand in a way that has never been done before. By streaming LALIGA, Serie A, Ligue 1 McDonald’s and Ligue 2 BKT matches live and free to air, we’re providing millions of fans with unparalleled access to world-class football. Through our expertise in key areas like licensing, content creation, esports, influencer and talent management, merchandising, and music, we’re offering a truly unique and immersive football experience to the Indian audience.”
With media rights for three of Europe’s biggest football leagues, GXR is now positioned to become the largest European football rights holder in India. The content will soon be available in multiple regional languages, including Bengali, Malayalam and Hindi enabling GXR to penetrate key football markets. This multilingual offering is expected to drive deeper interaction and loyalty among football fans across the country.
Javier Tebas, President, LALIGA said: “We are thrilled to partner with GXR to bring LALIGA closer to the passionate football fans of India. This innovative platform will connect young fans directly with their idols, creating a more immersive and personal football experience.”
Luigi De Siervo, Lega Serie A CEO said: “An exciting and innovative journey begins together with two other great European Leagues, in a country that has already hosted some legends of Italian football such as Del Piero and Materazzi, football stars in the recent past in India. Teaming up with GXR we will bring the excitement of Serie A straight to the hearts of the millions of fans living in this new frontier of football.”
Benjamin Morel, LFP Media CEO said: “Our partnership with GXR offers a fresh, dynamic way for young fans in India to experience Ligue 1 McDonald’s and Ligue 2 BKT. Through this innovative platform, we’re bridging the gap between fans and their favorite footballers, creating unforgettable moments and fan interactions.”
What sets GXR apart from other platforms is its mission to provide an all-encompassing digital experience. As a Super App, fans will not only watch their favourite teams play but also engage in discussions, participate in real-money gaming, and enjoy exclusive content from influencers and talent across the football world.
GXR’s partnership with LALIGA, Serie A, and Ligue 1 McDonald’s and Ligue 2 BKT signifies a new era for football fans in India, where cutting-edge technology and a fan-centric approach will deliver unparalleled access to global football content. The platform’s direct-to-consumer strategy aims to revolutionize how Indian football fans interact with the sport, placing them at the heart of the action like never before.
To catch all the live action and experience this revolutionary football experience first-hand, download the GXR app or visit www.gxr.world. Join the football revolution with GXR!
Age fraud, the practice of fielding overage players in youth competitions, has been a persistent issue in football, damaging the confidence and development of young players. FC Goa defender Sandesh Jhingan, a victim of this practice, has spoken out against its detrimental effects.
Jhingan recalled his experiences playing against older opponents during his youth, highlighting the significant physical and mental advantages they possessed. “I have many times felt that I was not good enough, because that boy was stronger, faster, and more mature than me,” he said. “At that age, even a difference of two years makes a massive difference.”
The negative impact of age fraud extends beyond individual players. It creates an unfair playing field, discouraging talented youth from pursuing the sport. Jhingan emphasized the need to eradicate this practice, stating, “It needs to stop big time. I am really happy that all the clubs and the Reliance Foundation are coming together to solve this problem.”
The Stay Your Age U-15 football tournament, held in Navi Mumbai, aimed to address the issue of age fraud. Players from six teams underwent rigorous document verification to ensure fair competition. The tournament provided a platform for young players to showcase their skills without the burden of competing against overage opponents.
Jhingan’s advocacy against age fraud highlights the importance of protecting the integrity of youth football. By ensuring that players compete in their appropriate age groups, we can foster a fair and equitable environment that nurtures the development of young talent.
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has appointed Santosh Kashyap as the new head coach of the national senior women’s team, replacing former international player Chaoba Devi. Kashyap’s first assignment will be the SAFF Women’s Championships to be held in Kathmandu, Nepal, from October 17 to 30.
Kashyap, a former India international, brings almost a decade of coaching experience in the I-League, having managed clubs like Mohun Bagan, Aizawl FC, and Mumbai FC. The 58-year-old has also served as assistant coach of NorthEast United FC and Odisha FC in the Indian Super League.
Kashyap will be assisted by Priya PV and Raghuvir Pravin Khanolkar as goalkeeper coach. “Coaching the National Team is always an honor,” said Kashyap. “I am grateful to the AIFF President, Shri Kalyan Chaubey, the technical committee, the technical department, and other senior members of the federation for providing me the opportunity to coach the senior national women’s team.”
Kashyap expressed confidence in the current squad, stating, “I have full faith in the current set of players in the team. They are all bright players. But what we require to improve is technically. I am confident that I can give the needed input to the team members during the national camp.”
Regarding the SAFF Women’s Championships, Kashyap said, “I am aware that our result in the previous SAFF Championship didn’t meet the expectations. But this time, with the right tactics, approach, and decision-making ability, we can regain the title.”
“Football has become an extremely competitive sport, especially at the international level. So, we shouldn’t take any team lightly. SAFF is only the first step. Thereafter, I have a bigger plan in mind. I am sure, this team is capable of delivering the goods.”
