AIFF to Host Charity Football Matches for Kerala, Himachal Pradesh Relief

AIFF to Host Charity Football Matches for Kerala, Himachal Pradesh Relief

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has announced plans to organize two charity football matches to raise funds for relief efforts in Kerala and Himachal Pradesh, which have been devastated by natural disasters.

The first match is scheduled for August 30, 2024, in Manjeri, Malappuram district of Kerala. It will feature Kolkata outfit Mohammedan Sporting Club and a Super League Kerala XI. The second match is proposed for September 2, 2024, in Lucknow, with the prospective clubs still being finalized.

AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey expressed his support for the initiative, stating that sports can offer comfort and healing after such tragedies. He urged clubs to come together and raise the “cup of solidarity.”

Kerala has been facing devastating landslides, particularly in Wayanad, leaving behind a trail of death and destruction. Himachal Pradesh has also been hit hard by landslides and flash floods, resulting in over 100 fatalities.

The AIFF’s charity matches aim to provide financial assistance to the affected regions. The funds raised will be used for relief work, including providing food, shelter, and medical aid to those in need.

Mohammedan Sporting Club, one of India’s oldest clubs, has already agreed to participate in the first match. The AIFF is in advanced talks with two clubs for the Lucknow match.

The AIFF’s initiative has been met with praise from the football community. Former India captain Bhaichung Bhutia commended the federation for its efforts, saying that it is a “great way to show solidarity and support to those who have been affected.”

The charity matches are expected to attract a large audience and generate significant funds for relief work. The AIFF hopes that the event will not only raise awareness about the plight of the affected regions but also inspire others to contribute to the cause.

Indian Football Embraces New Era with Manolo Marquez as Coach

Indian Football Embraces New Era with Manolo Marquez as Coach

Indian Football Embarks on New Era with Manolo Marquez at the Helm

Spanish coach Manolo Marquez has taken over as the head coach of the Indian men’s football team, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the nation. Marquez, who will also continue to coach FC Goa, has wasted no time in identifying areas for improvement, emphasizing the need for a shift in mentality among Indian players.

With qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup out of reach, Marquez has set his sights on enhancing the overall level of the players. He believes that Indian players can achieve significant growth by stepping outside their comfort zones and playing abroad.

“The level of Indian players can be better and can improve faster,” Marquez stated. “Everyone knows my feeling – maybe some players don’t like – that they are very comfortable playing in the Indian Super League (ISL). They are very comfortable in India.”

Marquez stressed that playing in a more competitive environment abroad can accelerate player development. “You will grow when you play abroad. I’m not saying the top level, like the Premier League or La Liga. If you play in one division where the opponents are the same or better than you, you will improve 100 per cent,” he added.

While acknowledging the importance of comfort, Marquez pointed to the example of FC Goa defender Sandesh Jhingan, who had an unsuccessful stint at Croatian club HNK Sibenik. “I understand that life is very good for most of them in ISL and it’s difficult for them to go abroad. For example, Sandesh tried to do it in Croatia,” he said.

Marquez also emphasized the crucial role of mental strength in football. “In football, technique, tactics, and physique are very important. But if this doesn’t work (points to head), you cannot do anything, not only in football but also your life,” he stated.

The Indian men’s football team will next play on September 9, 2024, in a friendly against Syria. Marquez’s appointment and his focus on improving mentality and encouraging players to seek opportunities abroad signal a new era for Indian football, with the aim of raising the level of the team and achieving greater success on the international stage.

Manolo Marquez Embarks on India Football Coaching Challenge

Manolo Marquez Embarks on India Football Coaching Challenge

Manolo Marquez, the newly appointed coach of the Indian men’s football team, faces a daunting task. With the departure of Igor Stimac and the retirement of Sunil Chhetri, Marquez inherits a team in transition. However, the Spaniard is undeterred, vowing to improve the team’s mentality and performance.

Marquez, who also coaches ISL club FC Goa, acknowledges the potential conflict of interest but believes in professionalism. He draws inspiration from renowned coaches like Guus Hiddink and Rinus Michels, who successfully managed both club and country.

Marquez’s appointment stems from his impressive work in the ISL. After initially dismissing the possibility of coaching in India, he has come to appreciate the country’s footballing potential. He believes that Indian players have improved but need to develop a stronger mentality.

“They are improving, but it is the Indian mentality,” Marquez observed. “We need to improve in this aspect. They have to be stronger mentally. In football, technique, tactics, physical condition are important, but if the head doesn’t work, you can do nothing.”

Marquez’s immediate goal is to enhance the individual and collective abilities of Indian players. He recognizes the importance of overseas experience and encourages players to seek opportunities abroad.

“The level of Indian players is better than what it was five years ago. But it can be better and improve faster,” said Marquez. “My feeling is that Indian players are very comfortable in ISL. You will grow when you play abroad.”

Marquez understands the challenges ahead but remains optimistic. He believes that with the right attitude and collective effort, the Indian team can achieve positive results.

Football Season Kick-Off Amidst Riot Concerns

Football Season Kick-Off Amidst Riot Concerns

As the English football season kicks off this weekend, authorities are on high alert following the recent riots that have plagued the country. The unrest, sparked by a knife attack that claimed the lives of three children, has seen far-right elements, including those with ties to football hooliganism, orchestrating violence against mosques and immigration-related sites.

Tommy Robinson, a notorious anti-Muslim agitator, has been accused of fueling the unrest through social media posts. His name has been chanted at gatherings, raising concerns that the start of the football season could reignite the violence.

Over 80,000 fans are expected at Wembley on Saturday for the FA Community Shield match between Manchester City and Manchester United. The UK Football Policing Unit (UKFPU) is collaborating with forces nationwide to share intelligence and prevent further unrest.

Football Banning Orders, which prohibit individuals from attending matches or nearby areas, have been extended to cover online hate crime and drug offenses. Chief Constable Gavin Stephens, head of the National Police Chiefs’ Council, urged people not to “tarnish football with the violence that we’ve seen.”

Mark Doidge, a Loughborough University academic, downplayed any overlap between the recent disorder and football fans. He noted that while some fans may spontaneously protest or chant about recent events, there is no evidence of coordinated activity or recruitment to the far-right at football matches.

Despite the concerns, some football clubs in affected towns have condemned the violence. Steve Gibson, chairman of Middlesbrough’s club, said, “We utterly condemn the violent and racist scenes we have seen on the streets of Middlesbrough. Our town and our football club have welcomed people from across the world.”

France and Spain to Battle for Olympic Football Gold in Paris

France and Spain to Battle for Olympic Football Gold in Paris

The stage is set for an enthralling clash between France and Spain in the Men’s Football Final of the Paris Olympics 2024. The match, scheduled for Friday, August 9, will witness the crowning of a new Olympic champion.

France, the host nation, will be eager to seize the opportunity to add football gold to their medal tally. Led by Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta, who has netted four goals in the tournament, the French team will be determined to make history on home soil.

Spain, on the other hand, will be aiming to improve upon their silver medal performance in Tokyo 2020. Barcelona’s Fermin Lopez, with four goals to his name, will be a key player for the Spanish side.

The match will take place at the iconic Parc des Princes in Paris, with kickoff scheduled for 9:30 PM IST. The encounter promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with both teams boasting talented players and a rich footballing tradition.

The France vs Spain Olympics 2024 Men’s Football Final will be a must-watch event for football enthusiasts worldwide. The match will be live telecast on the Sports18 network and live streamed on the JioCinema app.

Spain and USA on Course for Olympic Women's Football Final Showdown

Spain and USA on Course for Olympic Women’s Football Final Showdown

The Olympic women’s football tournament is reaching its climax, with reigning World Cup champions Spain and four-time gold medallists the United States emerging as the favorites to face off in the final.

Spain, led by Ballon d’Or winner Aitana Bonmati, will face surprise semi-finalists Brazil in Marseille. The Brazilians, despite missing suspended captain Marta, stunned hosts France in the quarter-finals.

Meanwhile, a rejuvenated USA under new coach Emma Hayes will meet Germany in Lyon. Hayes, who took over in May, has guided the Americans to three group stage wins and an extra-time victory over Japan in the quarter-finals.

The USA, who last won the Olympic title in 2012, are seeking to extend their record of five gold medals. They have already defeated Germany 4-1 in the group stage, giving them confidence heading into the semi-final.

Germany, the 2016 gold medallists, finished second in their group behind the USA and edged out Canada on penalties in the quarter-finals. Goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger was the hero, saving two penalties and converting the winning kick.

Spain, making their Olympic debut in women’s football, are aiming to continue their impressive form after winning the World Cup last year. However, they nearly crashed out in the quarter-finals against Colombia, trailing 2-0 before equalizing late and winning on penalties.

The semi-finals promise to be thrilling encounters, with Spain and Brazil facing off in a battle of contrasting styles, while the USA and Germany will renew their rivalry in a rematch of the 2016 final.

Manolo Marquez Appointed Head Coach of Indian National Football Team

Manolo Marquez Appointed Head Coach of Indian National Football Team

Manolo Marquez, the soft-spoken Spaniard who has become renowned for his ability to maximize limited resources in Indian football, has been appointed as the head coach of the senior national men’s football team. However, he will continue his coaching duties with ISL club FC Goa alongside his national team responsibilities.

In an interview with the All India Football Federation (AIFF), Marquez emphasized the importance of coach education worldwide. “It’s not only in India, but coach education is important in all countries. Licenses are important, but they don’t guarantee you’ll be a better coach. Someone may not have a license but have more knowledge about football,” he said.

Marquez’s tenure with the Blue Tigers will commence at the Intercontinental Cup in Hyderabad, where they will face Syria and Mauritius in September. During his four-year stay in India, he has witnessed a significant improvement in the quality of Indian coaches.

“Over the four seasons that I’ve been here, I’ve seen the level of Indian coaches get better every season. Last season, there were two Indian head coaches – Thangboi Singto (Hyderabad FC) and Khalid Jamil (Jamshedpur FC). Clifford (Miranda) won the Super Cup with Odisha FC before that,” Marquez noted.

He also highlighted the talent of Indian assistant coaches, including Gouramangi Singh, a former India international, who currently assists him at FC Goa. “In the national team, I will also be working with Mahesh Gawali, another good coach who was an excellent player for the national team a few years ago,” he added.

Marquez believes that the long-term goal should be to have an Indian head coach for the national team. “It’s not just for the national team, but for the clubs too. Every Indian assistant coach at the clubs should aim to become a head coach in the next few years. Maybe they can also start with being the head coach of the U-17 or U-19 teams before moving on to take charge of the senior teams,” he said.

Canada's Olympic Women's Football Team Triumphs Amidst Adversity

Canada’s Olympic Women’s Football Team Triumphs Amidst Adversity

Canada’s Olympic women’s football team has overcome adversity to keep their gold medal hopes alive after a 1-0 victory against Colombia. Despite a six-point penalty imposed by FIFA for spying on opponents, the team has rallied together and secured a crucial win.

The penalty, which stemmed from allegations of using a drone to spy on New Zealand’s training session, had left Canada with zero points after wins against New Zealand and France. However, defender Vanessa Giles’ goal in the 62nd minute, assisted by skipper Jessie Fleming, proved to be the game-winner against Colombia.

The team’s resilience has been a testament to their strong bond, which has helped them navigate the challenges they have faced. “We haven’t eaten, we’ve been crying,” Giles said after the win against France. “But we’ve held each other through this and we have nothing to lose.”

The spying scandal has cast a shadow over Canada’s Olympic campaign, with former goalkeeper Stephanie Labbe accusing the team of being let down by their own people. Coach Bev Priestman and two assistants were banned for a year by FIFA, and interim head coach Andy Spence was put in charge.

Despite the setbacks, Canada Soccer appealed the penalty to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), arguing that it was disproportionate and penalized players who had no involvement in the incident. However, CAS rejected the appeal eight hours before the Colombia match.

“Going into the match we wanted to win regardless of what that ruling was,” said Fleming. “It did not change our game plan or what we wanted to do.”

Canada’s victory against Colombia has put them in second place in their group behind France. The top two teams from each of the three groups and the two best third-placed teams will qualify for the quarter-finals. Canada’s next challenge will be against Germany, the 2016 gold medallists.

Mbappé Becomes Majority Owner of Caen Football Club

Mbappé Becomes Majority Owner of Caen Football Club

Kylian Mbappé Acquires Majority Ownership of Caen Football Club

French football superstar Kylian Mbappé has made a significant investment in the world of sports by acquiring an 80% stake in Caen Football Club, a second-division team in France. The 25-year-old forward, who recently joined Real Madrid from Paris Saint-Germain, is set to spend 20 million euros ($21.6 million) on the deal, according to French newspaper Le Parisien.

Mbappé’s connection to Caen runs deep, as he nearly joined the club as a teenager before ultimately signing for Monaco. The Normandy-based outfit finished sixth in Ligue 2 last season and boasts a rich history, having won the league title twice and produced notable players such as N’Golo Kanté and William Gallas.

The acquisition marks a new chapter for Caen, which was previously owned by American investors Oaktree. Mbappé’s involvement is expected to bring financial stability and increased visibility to the club. The two-time Ligue 2 champions will kick off their new campaign on August 17 by hosting Paris FC.

Mbappé’s investment in Caen is a testament to his commitment to the sport and his desire to make a lasting impact on French football. The move also aligns with his entrepreneurial spirit, as he has previously launched his own clothing line and invested in a gaming company.

Argentina Rebounds, Spain and Japan Advance in Olympic Football

Argentina Rebounds, Spain and Japan Advance in Olympic Football

Argentina’s Olympic football campaign got back on track with a 3-1 victory over Iraq on Saturday, while Spain and Japan became the first teams to secure quarter-final berths.

After a chaotic opening defeat to Morocco, Argentina bounced back in Lyon with goals from Thiago Almada, Luciano Gondou, and Ezequiel Fernandez. Iraq’s Aymen Hussein had equalized in the first half, but Argentina’s second-half dominance proved too much.

In the same group, Ukraine snatched a dramatic 2-1 win over Morocco in the dying seconds, leaving all four teams level on three points.

Spain, the Tokyo silver medallists, also made it two wins from two in Group C with a 3-1 victory over the Dominican Republic. Fermin Lopez, Alex Baena, and Miguel Gutierrez scored for Spain, who are now through to the last eight.

Egypt’s 1-0 win over Uzbekistan in Nantes also helped Spain’s cause, as it eliminated the Central Asian nation.

Thierry Henry’s France team edged Guinea 1-0 in Nice, with Kiliann Sildillia’s late header proving decisive. France are not yet through from Group A, but they need only a point against New Zealand on Tuesday to guarantee progress.

Japan, the Asian Under-23 champions, secured their quarter-final berth with a 1-0 victory against Mali in Bordeaux. Rihito Yamamoto scored the only goal in the 82nd minute, despite Mali having a late penalty chance.

In Group D, Paraguay scored twice in stoppage time to beat Israel 4-2 in an entertaining game in Paris. Marcelo Fernandez scored twice for Paraguay, who are now level on points with Japan.

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