Kolkata Derby: Mohun Bagan Eyes League Shield, East Bengal Fights for Survival

Kolkata Derby: Mohun Bagan Eyes League Shield, East Bengal Fights for Survival

The upcoming Kolkata derby between Mohun Bagan SG and East Bengal promises to be a high-octane affair, with both teams vying for different goals in the Indian Super League (ISL).

Mohun Bagan, currently third in the standings with 33 points from 16 matches, is eyeing the League Shield. East Bengal, on the other hand, is struggling for survival, sitting in 10th place with 18 points from as many outings.

Despite East Bengal’s lower position, the psychological advantage lies with them in derby meetings this season. They have won two of the three encounters so far, including a 2-2 draw in the last meeting on February 3.

That draw marked a turning point for Mohun Bagan under coach Antonio Lopez Habas. Since then, they have remained unbeaten, picking up four wins and two draws in a stretch of six matches.

East Bengal, on the other hand, has been inconsistent. They recently lost away to Goa and will be looking to regain their form in time for the derby.

The match will be played at the Salt Lake Stadium, which is expected to be packed to capacity. The atmosphere will be electric, with both sets of fans creating a deafening roar.

Mohun Bagan will be relying on the likes of Roy Krishna, Hugo Boumous, and Liston Colaco to provide the attacking spark. East Bengal will look to their experienced players, such as Cleiton Silva, Naorem Mahesh Singh, and Lalrinliana Hnamte, to guide them to victory.

The derby is not just a match; it’s a battle of pride and passion. Both teams will be determined to give their all and emerge victorious. The stakes are high, and the atmosphere will be unforgettable.

Services Crowned Santosh Trophy Champions with 1-0 Victory over Goa

Services Crowned Santosh Trophy Champions with 1-0 Victory over Goa

YUPIA, Arunachal Pradesh – Services emerged victorious in the 75th edition of the Santosh Trophy, India’s premier inter-state senior men’s football competition, after a thrilling 1-0 triumph over Goa in the final.

The match at the Golden Jubilee Stadium in Yupia started cautiously, with both teams struggling to find their rhythm in the opening session. However, Services gradually gained the upper hand in the second half, and their persistence paid off in the 67th minute.

Midfielder Rahul Ramakrishnan played a key role in the winning goal, setting up right-back P.P. Shafeel with a precise pass outside the Goa box. Shafeel unleashed a powerful grounder that left Goa goalkeeper Antonio Da Silva with no chance.

Goa, the pre-tournament favorites, fought valiantly to equalize, but Services’ defense stood firm. The best opportunity for Goa came in injury time when substitute Joshua D’Silva’s header beat Services goalkeeper Abdul Kadir, but Pradeep Kumar cleared the ball off the line to preserve the lead.

Services’ victory marks their seventh Santosh Trophy title, moving them up to second place in the all-time standings behind West Bengal (32 titles). The triumph is a testament to the team’s hard work, determination, and tactical discipline.

Goa, despite their disappointment, can take solace in their impressive run to the final. They showcased their attacking prowess throughout the tournament, scoring 14 goals in their previous five matches.

The Santosh Trophy, first held in 1941, is one of the oldest and most prestigious football competitions in India. It provides a platform for talented players from across the country to showcase their skills and represent their states.

Sunny Singh Gill to Make History as First Indian-Origin Referee in Premier League

Sunny Singh Gill to Make History as First Indian-Origin Referee in Premier League

Sunny Singh Gill, a 39-year-old British South Asian, is set to make history as the first Indian-origin referee in an English Premier League fixture. This momentous occasion will take place on Saturday at Selhurst Park, where Gill will officiate the match between Crystal Palace and Luton.

Gill’s journey to this historic moment began at a crossroads a year ago. He had the choice between continuing his career as a prison officer or pursuing his passion for refereeing, a legacy passed down from his father, Jarnail Singh, who was the first turbaned referee in English League football history.

Gill’s father’s influence and his own love for the game led him to take up refereeing at the age of 17. However, he faced challenges early on, finding it difficult to manage players on the field. After a five-year hiatus, he returned to refereeing with renewed determination.

In 2021, Gill and his brother Bhupinder became the first pair of British South Asians to officiate in the same Championship match. Last year, Gill became the first South Asian since his father to referee a Championship game.

Alongside his refereeing duties, Gill worked at Feltham Prison and Young Offender Institution. However, the demanding schedule eventually led him to give up his prison job to focus on his refereeing career.

Gill’s hard work and dedication have paid off. He has received support from the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) and his coaches, and he is now ready to fulfill his dream of becoming the first South Asian to referee in the Premier League.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak praised Gill’s achievement, highlighting the significant contributions of South Asian people to British society. Gill’s historic moment is a testament to the values of hard work, family, education, and enterprise that are shared by the South Asian community.

Tracksuits: The Unlikely Connection Between Football, Fashion, and the Mafia

Tracksuits: The Unlikely Connection Between Football, Fashion, and the Mafia

The Tracksuit: A Symbol of Football, Fashion, and the Mafia

Football’s governing body FIFA recently announced that the 2026 World Cup final will be held at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, a state synonymous with the Italian-American mafia. This connection has sparked a humorous observation: with the influx of football players wearing tracksuits, it will be difficult to distinguish them from New Jersey locals.

The tracksuit, invented in 1939 by Le Coq Sportif, initially gained popularity among sportspersons. However, it became a mass fashion item in the late 1960s thanks to Adidas’ collaboration with German football legend Franz Beckenbauer.

Tracksuits quickly became ubiquitous, worn by people from all walks of life. However, they also found favor with gangsters. While bosses preferred tailored suits, lower-ranking members embraced tracksuits as a comfortable and practical attire. In Bensonhurst, Brooklyn, they became known as the “Bensonhurst Tuxedo,” providing ample space for weapons and cash.

The popularity of tracksuits among wise guys is evident in numerous films and television shows. “The Sopranos,” despite its avoidance of stereotypes, featured many characters in tracksuits. Costume designer Juliet Polcsa explained that clothing plays a crucial role in storytelling, and tracksuits were essential for portraying the authenticity of the characters.

Michael Imperioli, who played Christopher Moltisanti in “The Sopranos,” noted that the show’s costumes reflected the real-life attire of mobsters. “There’s the casual look, which is the jogging suits and jeans and a nice shirt, and then there’s the suit for going out,” he said.

Martin Scorsese’s “Goodfellas” also showcased the tracksuit. Ray Liotta’s character, Henry Hill, lounges in a trendy Adidas tracksuit while incarcerated. However, gangsters had to maintain a certain level of decorum, even in their casual attire. James Gandolfini, who played Tony Soprano, was often shown in shorts on “The Sopranos.” However, he received an anonymous call from a supposed mafioso who expressed admiration for the series but criticized Gandolfini’s character for wearing shorts.

Services Edge Mizoram in Santosh Trophy Semifinal Thriller

Services Edge Mizoram in Santosh Trophy Semifinal Thriller

In a thrilling semifinal clash of the 77th National Football Championships for the Santosh Trophy, Services held off a late surge from Mizoram to secure a narrow 2-1 victory.

Services, a six-time champion, dominated the proceedings from the outset, controlling possession and creating several scoring opportunities. In the 21st minute, left-back Subham Rana set up Rahul Ramakrishnan with a sharp cross, which the latter converted with a left-footed drive to give Services the lead.

After the break, Services continued to press forward and doubled their advantage in the 83rd minute. Substitute Bikash Thapa pounced on a back-pass that Mizoram goalkeeper F. Lalmuanawma failed to control and slotted home the insurance goal.

Mizoram, however, refused to go down without a fight. Substitute Malsawmfela, introduced in the 71st minute, caused problems for Services with his physical play. In injury time, Malsawmfela pulled one back for Mizoram with a free-kick, setting up a tense finish.

Despite losing defender Zothanpuia to a red card in the 88th minute, Services held on to their lead, with goalkeeper Shafeel P.P. making a crucial save in the dying seconds to deny Malsawmfela an equalizer.

The victory sends Services to their 12th final in the tournament’s history, where they will face the winner of the other semifinal between Kerala and Punjab.

Mizoram Edges Kerala in Santosh Trophy Quarterfinal Penalty Shootout

Mizoram Edges Kerala in Santosh Trophy Quarterfinal Penalty Shootout

The 77th National Football Championship for the Santosh Trophy witnessed a thrilling conclusion to the quarterfinals, with Mizoram edging out Kerala 7-6 in a nail-biting sudden-death penalty shootout.

The match at the Golden Jubilee Stadium on Tuesday saw both teams locked in a goalless stalemate throughout regulation and extra time. The deadlock persisted even in the tie-breaker, with the teams tied 5-5 before Kerala’s Sujith V.R. missed his attempt, handing Mizoram the victory.

Mizoram’s M.C. Malsawmzuala, Malsawmfela, F.C. Lalhmunmawia, E. Lalremtluanga, L. Tochhawng, Lalremruata, and Lalbiakthanga all converted their penalties, while Kerala’s Sanju G, Arjun V, Mohamed Salim, Riswanali Edakkavil, Sarath Prasanth K, and Jithin Gopalakrishnan scored before Sujith’s crucial miss.

The match was characterized by end-to-end action, with both Kerala and Mizoram creating numerous chances. However, poor finishing and solid goalkeeping from both sides kept the scoreline blank.

Earlier in the day, former champion Manipur showcased their attacking prowess with a resounding 7-1 victory over Assam in the third quarterfinal. Sadananda Singh led the charge for Manipur with a hat-trick, while Phijam Sanathoi Meetei, Ngangbam Pacha Singh (penalty), Maibam Deny Singh, and Imarson Meitei also found the net. Joydeep Gogoi scored the lone goal for Assam.

With these results, Mizoram and Manipur have advanced to the semifinals of the Santosh Trophy, while Kerala and Assam have been eliminated.

Ronaldo's Return Not Enough as Al-Nassr Fall to Al-Ain in ACL

Ronaldo’s Return Not Enough as Al-Nassr Fall to Al-Ain in ACL

Cristiano Ronaldo’s return from suspension could not prevent Al-Nassr from suffering a 1-0 defeat to Al-Ain in the first leg of their Asian Champions League quarterfinal on Monday.

A first-half goal from Moroccan forward Soufiane Rahimi proved decisive for Al-Ain, who will take a slender advantage into the return leg in Riyadh next Monday.

Ronaldo, who missed Al-Nassr’s previous Saudi Pro League match as punishment for an alleged offensive gesture, was unable to inspire his team to victory.

Despite going close with an overhead kick in the early stages, Ronaldo was largely kept quiet by the Al-Ain defense. He attempted a spectacular lob from the halfway line in the closing moments, but it sailed just wide of the post.

Al-Ain, coached by former Argentine striker Hernan Crespo, had two goals ruled out for offside, while Al-Nassr finished the game with 10 men after Aymeric Laporte was sent off for violent conduct in stoppage time.

“We are only halfway through, and while going to the next round is going to be difficult, we still have 90 minutes at home,” said Al-Nassr coach Luis Castro.

The winner of the tie will face Saudi opposition in the semifinals, with Al-Ittihad and Al-Hilal set to meet in the other quarterfinal in the western zone on Tuesday.

Sunny Singh Gill to Become First British South Asian Premier League Referee

Sunny Singh Gill to Become First British South Asian Premier League Referee

Sunny Singh Gill, a 39-year-old referee of Indian descent, is set to make history as the first British South Asian to officiate an English Premier League match on Saturday. This milestone follows in the footsteps of his father, Jarnail Singh Gill, who became the first English league football referee to wear a turban.

Gill’s appointment to referee Crystal Palace’s game against Luton at Selhurst Park is a testament to his dedication and hard work. He has been following in the footsteps of his father and brother, Bhupinder, who is also a referee and became the first Sikh-Punjabi to serve as a Premier League assistant referee in January 2023.

Growing up in a family passionate about football, Gill and his brother developed a love for the game at a young age. Gill’s first Sunday League match as a referee came at the age of 17. In 2021, he and Bhupinder became the first people of Indian descent to officiate in the same Championship match.

Gill’s appointment to the Premier League is a significant moment for representation and diversity in the sport. It sends a message that anyone with passion and determination can achieve their dreams, regardless of their background.

Meanwhile, Paul Tierney has been removed from refereeing duties in the next round of Premier League matches following his controversial decision in the Nottingham Forest-Liverpool game. Tierney will instead serve as a video assistant referee for Arsenal’s home game against Brentford on Saturday.

Tierney’s mistake occurred when he stopped play after Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate sustained a knock to the head at a Forest corner just before Liverpool’s stoppage-time goal. Despite Konate’s quick recovery, Tierney dropped the ball to Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, even though Forest had possession at the time.

Forest’s players and coaching staff were furious with the decision, and club owner Evangelos Marinakis expressed his unhappiness to Tierney after the match.

Toni Kroos Returns to German National Team for 2024 Euros

Toni Kroos Returns to German National Team for 2024 Euros

Toni Kroos, the 34-year-old German midfield maestro, has made a sensational return to the national team after announcing his retirement three years ago. Kroos’ decision to step down in 2021 was a surprise, but his exceptional form for Real Madrid and the German team’s struggles have prompted him to reconsider.

Kroos’ return is a major boost for Germany, who have endured a disappointing period since winning the 2014 World Cup. The team failed to progress beyond the group stage in the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, and crashed out of the 2020 Euros in the round of 16.

New coach Julian Nagelsmann believes Kroos’ experience and leadership will be invaluable to the young German squad. Kroos is known for his exceptional passing range, tactical intelligence, and ability to control the tempo of the game. He is also a role model for younger players, guiding them and showing them how to work effectively as a team.

Kroos’ return is particularly significant given the team’s lack of experienced mentors. The squad is filled with talented young players, but they have lacked the guidance of senior figures. Kroos’ presence will provide stability and direction, helping the team to develop and reach its potential.

Kroos’ decision to return to the national team has been met with excitement by fans and pundits alike. He is widely regarded as one of the best midfielders of his generation, and his return gives Germany a genuine chance of success at the 2024 Euros, which will be held on home soil.

While some fans have expressed concerns about the toll that additional international matches could take on Kroos, most are simply delighted to see him back in the German colors. Kroos has always been a vocal critic of the congested football calendar, but he has assured fans that he is still physically and mentally capable of playing at the highest level.

With Kroos back in the fold, Germany will be a formidable force in the upcoming Euros. His experience, leadership, and exceptional passing ability will be crucial to the team’s success.

Mohammedan Sporting Triumphs Over Gokulam Kerala in Thrilling I-League Encounter

Mohammedan Sporting Triumphs Over Gokulam Kerala in Thrilling I-League Encounter

Mohammedan Sporting and Gokulam Kerala engaged in a captivating end-to-end football match on Sunday night, with the Kolkatans emerging victorious 3-2. This triumph solidifies Mohammedan’s position at the top of the I-League standings.

The match commenced with Mohammedan taking an early lead in the 16th minute. Alexis Gomez’s skillful pass found Lalremsanga Fanai, who deflected the ball past goalkeeper Padam Chhetri. Eddie Hernandez, unmarked and with ample space, effortlessly slotted the ball into the net.

Seven minutes later, Mohammedan extended their advantage to 2-0. Gomez, receiving a short pass from David Lalhlansanga, unleashed a stunning strike from just outside the penalty area, sending the ball soaring into the top corner of the net.

However, Gokulam refused to be deterred and fought back before the interval. P.N. Noufal produced a brilliant solo effort, sprinting from his own half on a counter-attack and sending the ball into the far top corner.

The second half witnessed a resurgence from Gokulam. K. Abhijith’s superb cross was met by Nidhin Krishna’s stunning header, leveling the score at 2-2. Gokulam’s hopes of securing a point were dashed in the dying seconds when Lalhlansanga capitalized on some inadequate defending by Abdul Hakku to score the winning goal.

Despite the loss, Gokulam remains third in the standings with 32 points, six behind Mohammedan.

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