Mohammedan Sporting Set for ISL Debut Against NorthEast United FC

Mohammedan Sporting Set for ISL Debut Against NorthEast United FC

Mohammedan Sporting Club, the newly promoted I-League champions, will make their Indian Super League (ISL) debut on Monday against Durand Cup winners NorthEast United FC at their home ground, the Kishore Bharati Stadium.

Mohammedan Sporting, which earned promotion to the ISL after winning the I-League last season, faces a tough challenge against NorthEast United, who finished seventh in the previous campaign.

Mohammedan Sporting head coach Andrey Chernyshov expressed his team’s ambition to finish in the top six and qualify for the knockout stage. “We understand the strength of this competition and the need to fight in every match and play good football,” Chernyshov said.

NorthEast United FC, which has won all six of its outings since the start of the season, including the Durand Cup, is brimming with confidence. Head coach Juan Pedro Benali emphasized the importance of consistent performance. “The feeling of winning the Durand Cup was great, but it ends 24 hours later. We are just focusing on the next game now,” Benali said.

Mohammedan Sporting will rely on the experience of former India international goalkeeper Phurba Lachenpa and defender Pritam Kotal, who has played for ATK Mohun Bagan and Delhi FC in the ISL. NorthEast United FC, on the other hand, will look to their foreign contingent, including Ghanaian midfielder Patrick Kpozo and Spanish forward Iker Guarrotxena, to make an impact.

The match promises to be an exciting clash between two teams with contrasting styles. Mohammedan Sporting is known for its attacking flair, while NorthEast United FC is more defensively solid.

The ISL is India’s premier football league, featuring 11 teams from across the country. The league has attracted several high-profile players and coaches in recent years, including former Manchester United and England defender Wes Brown and former India national team coach Stephen Constantine.

Kerala Blasters Aim for Strong Start in ISL Opener Against Punjab FC

Kerala Blasters Aim for Strong Start in ISL Opener Against Punjab FC

Kerala Blasters, despite losing their top scorer from last season, Dimitrios Diamantakos, have been in impressive form in the pre-season and the Durand Cup. Their Moroccan forward, Noah Sadaoui, won the Golden Boot award in the Durand Cup, and the team is hoping that he and Spaniard Jesus Jimenez will continue their fine form in the upcoming ISL season opener against Punjab FC.

“We have been pretty solid so we are absolutely ready but the games in the ISL will tell us where we stand. It will be a hard game but hopefully we can beat them,” said head coach Mikael Stahre.

Punjab FC, who beat Blasters 3-1 in Kochi in their debut ISL year last season, and drew 1-1 in the recent Durand Cup, are also confident of a good performance.

“We have a new coaching staff, new foreign and Indian players and that is the biggest difference from last season,” said Punjab FC head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis. “This season we will try to better the performance from last year and qualify for the playoffs.”

John Abraham's Passion Pays Off as NorthEast United Wins Durand Cup

John Abraham’s Passion Pays Off as NorthEast United Wins Durand Cup

NorthEast United’s historic Durand Cup triumph is a testament to the unwavering passion and dedication of its owner, John Abraham. The actor’s journey with the club has been marked by financial challenges and setbacks, but his unwavering belief in the team has finally borne fruit.

Abraham’s acquisition of NorthEast United in 2013 was a bold move, as he became the sole owner of a franchise in a league dominated by corporate giants. Despite the financial burden, Abraham’s love for football and his desire to represent the Northeast region drove him to invest heavily in the club.

Over the years, NorthEast United has faced its share of struggles, failing to win the Indian Super League despite some promising performances. However, the Durand Cup victory against Mohun Bagan, one of India’s most decorated clubs, is a significant milestone for the club and its owner.

In a recent interview, Abraham spoke candidly about the financial losses he has incurred due to his ownership of NorthEast United. “Every year, I suffer big losses,” he said. “But I want to represent my team with a lot of pride. I cry when they lose, but I love them.”

Abraham’s passion for the club is evident in his unwavering support, even during difficult times. His belief in the team and his commitment to the Northeast region have finally paid off with the Durand Cup triumph.

The victory is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players, coach, and support staff, but it is also a personal triumph for John Abraham. His unwavering passion and belief in the team have inspired NorthEast United to achieve greatness, proving that with determination and perseverance, anything is possible.

NorthEast United FC Triumphs in Durand Cup, Defeats Mohun Bagan in Penalty Shootout

NorthEast United FC Triumphs in Durand Cup, Defeats Mohun Bagan in Penalty Shootout

NorthEast United FC etched its name in the annals of Indian football history by capturing the coveted Durand Cup trophy for the first time in its decade-long existence. The Highlanders overcame the formidable challenge of Mohun Bagan Super Giant, the tournament’s defending champions and Asia’s oldest club, in a thrilling penalty shootout.

The match, played at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata, witnessed a dramatic turnaround in the second half. Mohun Bagan dominated the opening period, establishing a two-goal lead through Jason Cummings’ penalty and Sahal Abdul Samad’s strike. However, NorthEast United, inspired by coach Juan Pedro Benali’s tactical adjustments, fought back valiantly after the break.

Moroccan forward Alaaeddine Ajaraie ignited the Highlanders’ comeback with a stunning right-footed shot in the 55th minute, catching Mohun Bagan goalkeeper Vishal Kaith off guard. Three minutes later, substitute Guillermo Fernandez volleyed home a pinpoint cross from Ajaraie to level the scores.

With no extra time allotted, the match went straight to a penalty shootout. NorthEast United goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh Chahal emerged as the hero, making two crucial saves to deny Mohun Bagan. The Highlanders converted all four of their spot-kicks, securing a 4-3 victory and the coveted trophy.

The win marked a significant milestone for NorthEast United, which had never won a major trophy before. It was a testament to the team’s resilience, determination, and the tactical acumen of coach Benali. For Mohun Bagan, it was a heartbreaking defeat, but they can take solace in their impressive run to the final.

Individual awards were also presented at the ceremony. Gurmeet Singh Chahal was named the Golden Glove winner for his outstanding performance in the shootout. Kerala Blasters’ Noah Sadaoui claimed the Golden Boot with six goals, while NorthEast United’s Jithin M.S. received the Golden Ball for his exceptional assists.

Durand Cup Final: Defending Champion Mohun Bagan Faces First-Time Finalist NorthEast United

Durand Cup Final: Defending Champion Mohun Bagan Faces First-Time Finalist NorthEast United

Defending champion Mohun Bagan Super Giant will face first-time finalist NorthEast United FC in the 133rd Durand Cup final at the Salt Lake Stadium on Saturday. The match promises to be a historic occasion for both teams, with NorthEast United aiming for its maiden title and Mohun Bagan seeking to extend its record-breaking tally to 18.

The road to the final has been contrasting for the two teams. NorthEast United has been in impressive form, winning all five of its group stage matches in regulation time. Mohun Bagan, on the other hand, has relied on late equalizers to avoid defeat and has won both its quarterfinal and semifinal via penalty shootouts.

In terms of form, NorthEast United has been more efficient, scoring 16 goals while conceding just one. Mohun Bagan, despite investing heavily in new signings, has appeared to be a team still in the building process. Its new head coach, Jose Molina, has admitted that the team is still in the pre-season build-up phase and needs time to gel.

NorthEast United head coach Juan Pedro Benali is confident that his team can pull off an upset. “We have nothing to lose and we will try to bring out our best and win our first major trophy since our inception,” he said.

Mohun Bagan will be hoping to see its attack improve and cut down on the defensive errors that have cost it in recent matches. The team boasts a star-studded lineup that includes Greg Stuart, Dimitri Petratos, Jason Cummings, Manvir Singh, Anirudh Thapa, Liston Colaco, and Apuia.

The Durand Cup final is expected to be a closely contested affair between two teams with contrasting styles. NorthEast United will look to exploit Mohun Bagan’s defensive weaknesses, while Mohun Bagan will rely on its attacking prowess to overcome its opponent’s resilience.

Mohun Bagan Reach Durand Cup Final After Shootout Heroics

Mohun Bagan Reach Durand Cup Final After Shootout Heroics

In a thrilling semi-final clash at the 133rd Durand Cup, defending champions Mohun Bagan emerged victorious over Bengaluru FC, thanks to a heroic performance from goalkeeper Vishal Kaith and a late equalizer from Anirudh Thapa.

Kaith, who was surprisingly omitted from the India probables list, proved his worth once again by saving two penalties in the shootout. His heroics sent Mohun Bagan to the final, where they will face Northeast United on Saturday.

Thapa, who had a disappointing season last year, played a pivotal role in the semi-final. With Mohun Bagan trailing 1-2 in the dying minutes, he produced a stunning shot from outside the box to level the score and force the match into a shootout.

Bengaluru FC had taken an early lead through Sunil Chhetri’s penalty in the first half. Venkatesh doubled their advantage in the second half, but Mohun Bagan fought back with goals from Dimitrios Petratos and Thapa.

Despite a late surge from Bengaluru FC, Mohun Bagan held on to secure the victory. Kaith’s saves in the shootout proved to be the difference, as Mohun Bagan advanced to the final.

The match also highlighted the attacking prowess of Mohun Bagan, who have a formidable lineup featuring Lalengmawia Ralte, Jason Cummings, and Colaco. However, coach Jose Molina will have some concerns about the team’s defense, which conceded two goals and allowed several chances to Bengaluru FC.

Durand Cup Semi-Final: Mohun Bagan Super Giant Host Former Champions Bengaluru FC

Durand Cup Semi-Final: Mohun Bagan Super Giant Host Former Champions Bengaluru FC

Defending champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant return to their home ground, the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata, for a highly anticipated semi-final clash against former champions Bengaluru FC in the 2024 Durand Cup on Tuesday.

Mohun Bagan, who edged past Punjab FC 6-5 in a thrilling penalty shootout after a 3-3 draw in regulation time in the quarter-finals, will be eager to make the most of their home advantage. Bengaluru FC, on the other hand, secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Kerala Blasters thanks to a 95th-minute strike from Jorge Pereyra Diaz.

Mohun Bagan head coach Jose Molina expressed his respect for Bengaluru FC but emphasized his team’s focus on their own strengths. “Bengaluru FC are a good team with some really good players, but I am thinking about the whole team, not any individual players,” said Molina. “We are going to miss Jamie Maclaren and Ashique Kuruniyan tomorrow, but the rest of the team is ready to give their best.”

Bengaluru FC head coach Gerard Zaragoza acknowledged the quality of Mohun Bagan’s squad but remained confident in his team’s abilities. “Mohun Bagan Super Giant is a team that has really talented players across the pitch, and we are sure that this will be a fixture that demands us to be focused,” said Zaragoza. “I was happy with the way we defended together as a unit and stayed compact against the Blasters.”

Both teams have been in impressive form throughout the tournament. Mohun Bagan topped their group with three wins and a draw, while Bengaluru FC won all three of their group matches, scoring ten goals and conceding just twice.

The semi-final clash promises to be a thrilling encounter between two of Indian football’s most decorated clubs. The winner will advance to the final on Saturday, where they will face NorthEast United.

Durand Cup Semifinal: Tifo, Drums Banned Amid Security Concerns

Durand Cup Semifinal: Tifo, Drums Banned Amid Security Concerns

Durand Cup Semifinal: Kolkata Police Bans Tifo, Drums, and Inflammable Materials

Amidst heightened security concerns following the RG Kar Medical College protests, the Kolkata Police has issued a notice prohibiting spectators from bringing tifo, drums, smoke candles, or other inflammable materials into the stadium for the Durand Cup semifinal between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Bengaluru FC on Tuesday.

The notice, signed by the joint commissioner of police, Bidhannagar, states that these restrictions are necessary to ensure the safety and security of the event. The authorities have requested both teams and their fans to cooperate with the security agencies and adhere to the guidelines.

The decision to ban these items comes after the city police and tournament organizers canceled the derby between Mohun Bagan and East Bengal due to security concerns. In a show of solidarity, supporters of both teams gathered near the Salt Lake Stadium to protest the alleged rape and murder of a doctor at RG Kar Medical College.

As the Durand Cup enters its final stages, Bengaluru FC faces a formidable challenge against defending champions Mohun Bagan. The Kolkata giants have scored 10 goals and conceded only three, showcasing their attacking prowess and defensive resilience.

Bengaluru FC, on the other hand, will be looking to upset the odds and secure a place in the final. The Blues have been in impressive form this season, winning the Indian Super League and reaching the AFC Cup semifinals.

The semifinal clash promises to be an exciting encounter between two of India’s top football clubs. However, the absence of tifo, drums, and other fan paraphernalia may dampen the atmosphere at the stadium. The Kolkata Police’s decision is aimed at prioritizing safety and preventing any potential security breaches.

Bengaluru FC, Mohun Bagan Advance to Durand Cup Semifinals

Bengaluru FC, Mohun Bagan Advance to Durand Cup Semifinals

Bengaluru FC and Mohun Bagan have secured their spots in the semifinals of the Durand Cup after thrilling victories in their respective quarterfinal matches.

Mohun Bagan emerged victorious in a penalty shootout against Punjab FC, prevailing 6-5 after a 3-3 draw in regulation time. Punjab took an early lead through Luca Majcen’s penalty, but Suhail Bhat and Manvir Singh put Mohun Bagan ahead in the second half. Filip Mrzljak and Norberto Ezequiel Vidal restored Punjab’s advantage, but Jason Cummings equalized for Mohun Bagan in the 79th minute.

In the penalty shootout, Mohun Bagan’s Greg Stewart and Aldred converted crucial spot-kicks, while Punjab’s Novoselec and Denechandram Meetei missed their attempts. Manvir, Liston Colaco, and Dimi Petratos also scored for Mohun Bagan, while Vinit Rai, Vidal, Bakenga, and Mrzljak found the net for Punjab.

In the other quarterfinal, Bengaluru FC edged past Kerala Blasters 1-0 thanks to a late injury-time goal from Pererya Diaz. The match started with a tense moment as Kerala Blasters’ goalkeeper Som Kumar collided with Diaz, forcing the Tuskers to substitute their goalkeeper.

Bengaluru FC dominated possession but struggled to break down Kerala Blasters’ defense. Sunil Chhetri’s introduction in the 67th minute added pressure on Kerala Blasters, but both teams failed to find a decisive moment.

In the dying moments of injury time, Bengaluru was awarded a free-kick just outside the box. Chhetri’s attempt was blocked, but Diaz pounced on the rebound and slotted the ball into the near post to secure the win for Bengaluru FC.

In the semifinals, Bengaluru FC will face defending champions Mohun Bagan, while Northeast United FC will take on Shillong Lajong FC.

Durand Cup Quarterfinals Set: Mohun Bagan to Face Punjab FC

Durand Cup Quarterfinals Set: Mohun Bagan to Face Punjab FC

The Durand Cup, India’s oldest football tournament, has reached its quarterfinal stage, with defending champions Mohun Bagan FC set to face Punjab FC in a highly anticipated clash. The draw for the quarterfinals was held virtually, with representatives of the eight qualified teams present.

After the conclusion of the FC Goa versus Shillong Lajong FC Group F game, a video call was arranged where representatives of all qualified teams came on board. A live draw of lots was then conducted in front of them, and two teams to play in each venue were finalized.

A decision was made to shift the second quarterfinal from Kolkata to Shillong due to playing conditions. The Durand Cup kicked off on July 27, with the final slated for August 31 at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan. A total of 24 teams took part in this year’s edition, including one foreign team from Nepal and all 12 teams of India’s top football division, the Indian Super League (ISL).

From Group A, arch-rivals Mohun Bagan and East Bengal qualified for the quarterfinals with two wins, one draw, and seven points. Bengaluru FC qualified from Group B with three wins in three games and nine points. Kerala Blasters and Punjab FC made it to the final eight from Group C with two wins, a draw, and seven points. Indian Army FT progressed further from Group D by winning all three games. Northeast United and Shillong Lajong made it to the quarterfinals from Group E and F with nine and seven points, respectively.

The quarterfinal fixtures are as follows:

* Quarter-Final 1 (August 21, SAI Stadium, Kokrajhar): Northeast United FC vs Indian Army FT, 4:00 PM
* Quarter-Final 2 (August 21, Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Shillong): Shillong Lajong FC vs East Bengal FC, 7:00 PM
* Quarter-Final 3 (August 23, 2024, JRD Tata Sports Complex, Jamshedpur): Mohun Bagan Super Giant vs Punjab FC, 4:00 PM
* Quarter-Final 4 (August 23, Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, Kolkata): Bengaluru FC vs Kerala Blasters FC, 7:00 PM

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