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Igor Stimac Announces Second List of Probables for FIFA World Cup Qualifiers

Igor Stimac Announces Second List of Probables for FIFA World Cup Qualifiers

By May 7, 2024 0

Indian football’s senior men’s team head coach Igor Stimac has unveiled his second list of 15 probables for the Bhubaneswar camp in preparation for the FIFA World Cup 2026 preliminary joint qualification round 2 matches against Kuwait and Qatar. This announcement follows the release of the first list of 26 probables on Saturday.

The 26 players from the first list will commence training in the Odisha capital on May 10. The 15 players from the second list, comprising players from Mumbai City FC and Mohun Bagan SG who contested the ISL Cup final, will join the camp on May 15.

A total of 41 players will participate in the national camp. The Blue Tigers will face Kuwait in Kolkata on June 6 before traveling to Qatar on June 11 for their final two matches of Group A.

India currently stands second in the group with four points from four matches. The top two teams in the group will advance to Round 3 of the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers and secure their place at the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027.

Second List of 15 Probables for Bhubaneswar Camp (Training from May 15):

* Goalkeepers: Phurba Tempa Lachenpa, Vishal Kaith
* Defenders: Akash Mishra, Anwar Ali, Mehtab Singh, Rahul Bheke, Subhasish Bose
* Midfielders: Anirudh Thapa, Deepak Tangri, Lalengmawia Ralte, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Liston Colaco, Sahal Abdul Samad
* Forwards: Manvir Singh, Vikram Partap Singh

First List of 26 Probables for Bhubaneswar Camp (Training from May 10):

* Goalkeepers: Amrinder Singh, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu
* Defenders: Amey Ganesh Ranawade, Jay Gupta, Lalchungnunga, Muhammad Hammad, Narender, Nikhil Poojary, Roshan Singh Naorem
* Midfielders: Brandon Fernandes, Edmund Lalrindika, Imran Khan, Isak Vanlalruatfela, Jeakson Singh Thounaojam, Mahesh Singh Naorem, Mohammad Yasir, Nandhakumar Sekar, Rahul Kannoly Praveen, Suresh Singh Wangjam, Vibin Mohanan
* Forwards: David Lalhlansanga, Jithin Madathil Subran, Lalrinzuala, Parthib Sundar Gogoi, Rahim Ali, Sunil Chhetri

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India Announces 26 Probables for FIFA World Cup Qualifiers Camp

India Announces 26 Probables for FIFA World Cup Qualifiers Camp

By May 4, 2024 0

Indian football’s quest for a berth in the FIFA World Cup 2026 and AFC Asian Cup 2027 faces a crucial juncture as head coach Igor Stimac unveils his first list of 26 probables for the upcoming Bhubaneswar camp. The Blue Tigers are set to face Kuwait and Qatar in their final two matches of Group A in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Preliminary Joint Qualification Round 2.

India currently sits second in the group with four points from four matches, trailing group leaders Qatar by five points. The top two teams in the group will advance to Round 3 of the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers and secure a spot at the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027.

Stimac’s first list of probables includes a mix of experienced veterans and promising youngsters. Goalkeepers Amrinder Singh and Gurpreet Singh Sandhu will provide stability between the posts, while defenders Amey Ganesh Ranawade, Jay Gupta, and Lalchungnunga will form the backbone of the defense.

Midfielders Brandon Fernandes, Edmund Lalrindika, and Jeakson Singh Thounaojam will be tasked with controlling the tempo of the game, while forwards David Lalhlansanga, Jithin Madathil Subran, and Sunil Chhetri will lead the attack.

India’s hopes of qualifying for the third round hinge on their ability to secure positive results in their remaining matches. While defeating Qatar in Doha will be a daunting task, the Blue Tigers will be determined to overcome Kuwait on home soil on June 6.

However, Afghanistan’s recent victory over India has cast a shadow over the team’s qualification hopes. Afghanistan now has four points from four matches and could potentially overtake India in the standings.

The Bhubaneswar camp will provide Stimac with an opportunity to assess the fitness and form of his players and finalize his squad for the crucial matches against Kuwait and Qatar. The Blue Tigers will need to perform at their best to keep their World Cup and Asian Cup dreams alive.

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Vikram Partap Singh Prepares for Biggest Club Match of His Career

Vikram Partap Singh Prepares for Biggest Club Match of His Career

By May 3, 2024 0

Vikram Partap Singh, a rising star in Indian football, is gearing up for the biggest match of his club career: the Indian Super League (ISL) final against Mohun Bagan Super Giant. With 12 goal contributions (8 goals, 4 assists) this season, Singh has emerged as a key player for Mumbai City FC.

Singh’s preparation for the final has been meticulous. After missing the last league game due to suspension, he was determined to prove his worth in the semi-final against FC Goa. His goal and assist over two legs against Goa were crucial in Mumbai City’s victory.

“I told myself that the semi-final is where I need to show that I can be useful to the team,” Singh said. “The only thought for us was to try and score one goal. When Chhangte scored, it gave us belief and realization that there is time for more.”

Singh believes that the key to success in the final will be maintaining belief and avoiding complacency. “No player now thinks the game will end around the 90-minute mark,” he said. “Sometimes seven minutes are enough to score two or three goals.”

The desire to end the season on a high note is also driving Singh and his teammates. “Losing the league shield in Kolkata to Mohun Bagan meant we had to win the semi-final as we didn’t want to finish with nothing after a good season,” he said.

Singh has learned valuable lessons from Mumbai City’s previous encounters with Mohun Bagan. “If there is one thing we learnt from that game, it was: never start a game thinking a draw will be enough,” he said.

Despite Mumbai City’s Champions League experience this season, Singh believes that the ISL final is the biggest club game of his career. “We can’t say that about any game we play in India. So, this is a must-win,” he said.

Singh credits his coach, Petr Kratky, for giving him more freedom and playing him on both sides of the pitch. “I feel I am more mature now but the confidence he had in me helped,” he said.

Singh is also eager to make his mark on the international stage. After making his debut for India against Afghanistan last March, he believes it’s time to work hard and improve. “I can’t call myself a young player anymore. 22 ‘bahut hota hai’. It felt like I was late for my India debut,” he said.

Singh is confident that he can continue to perform at a high level. “At 22, you can’t say all that. I can play all year,” he said.

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Chennaiyin FC Extends Contract of Goalkeeper Samik Mitra Until 2027

Chennaiyin FC Extends Contract of Goalkeeper Samik Mitra Until 2027

By May 1, 2024 0

Chennaiyin FC has extended the contract of goalkeeper Samik Mitra, ensuring his services with the club until 2027. Mitra joined Chennaiyin from Indian Arrows in 2020 and has since made 22 appearances for the team across various competitions, showcasing his impressive skills and potential.

Head coach Owen Coyle expressed his confidence in Mitra’s abilities, stating that he believes the young goalkeeper can continue to grow and develop within the team. “We believe in giving chances to youngsters at the club, and Samik Mitra is someone who has great potential,” Coyle said. “He is young, and we have already seen his capabilities in the matches that he has played for the team. It’s important that such talented players stay at the club, and I believe that he can continue to grow with the team.”

Mitra expressed his excitement about the contract extension, acknowledging the club’s role in his development. “I’m really excited for another season with Chennaiyin FC,” Mitra said. “We qualified for the playoffs this season and want to do even better in the coming year. This club is the right place for me to grow and learn from some of the best coaches and players in the country. I have grown a lot in the last few years and want to continue the upward trajectory in my career.”

Mitra’s contract extension is a testament to his hard work and dedication, as well as the club’s commitment to nurturing young talent. With his impressive performances and the support of the team, Mitra is poised to make significant contributions to Chennaiyin FC in the seasons to come.

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Indian Football Celebrates Golden Jubilee of 1974 AFC Youth Championship Triumph

Indian Football Celebrates Golden Jubilee of 1974 AFC Youth Championship Triumph

By April 30, 2024 0

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) celebrated the Golden Jubilee of the Indian football team’s historic triumph in the 1974 AFC Youth Championship with a grand felicitation ceremony in New Delhi. The event honored the members of the victorious squad that shared the title with Iran after a thrilling 2-2 draw in the final, even after extra time.

This remarkable achievement marked the last significant international triumph for Indian football, following the bronze medal won by the senior team at the 1970 Asian Games in Bangkok. AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey presented mementos to six members of the squad who were present at the ceremony: captain Shabbir Ali, C.C. Jacob, Dilip Palit, Shishir Guha Dastidar, Ranjit (Gobinda Das), and S.P. Kumar.

Coach Arun Ghosh, who guided the team to victory, was unable to attend due to health reasons. His son-in-law, former National table tennis champion Nupur Santra, received the memento on his behalf.

Chaubey expressed his admiration for the team’s accomplishments, acknowledging that they had achieved something truly special. However, he also lamented the lack of international exposure for Indian football in the decades that followed.

“For almost five decades after India’s independence, we never focused on utilizing the international friendly windows, the FIFA World Cup, or even to collaborate with the world of football,” Chaubey said. “We chose not to look beyond the Olympics and the Asian Games at that time. That seems to have cost us important international exposure.”

Chaubey emphasized the need to bridge the gap with other footballing nations, acknowledging that India had lost valuable time in developing its international presence.

The felicitation ceremony served as a reminder of the golden era of Indian football and the potential that the country holds in the sport. It also highlighted the importance of investing in international exposure and collaboration to foster the growth and development of Indian football on the global stage.

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Sporting Club Bengaluru Secures I-League Promotion with Meteoric Rise

Sporting Club Bengaluru Secures I-League Promotion with Meteoric Rise

By April 29, 2024 0

Sporting Club Bengaluru, established in April 2022, has witnessed a remarkable rise in the Indian football landscape. Within two years, the club has secured promotion from I-League 3 to I-League 2 and triumphed in the I-League 2 to qualify for the I-League, the second tier of Indian football.

Head coach Chinta Chandrashekar attributes the club’s success to a combination of factors: “We have done the right thing at every level, from the management to the coaching staff to the players.” The club prioritized signing hungry and ambitious players, scouting talent from the Santosh Trophy and local clubs.

Sporting’s I-League 2 triumph was emphatic, finishing the season with 33 points, six ahead of second-placed Dempo Sports Club. The team’s attacking prowess was evident, scoring 28 goals, seven more than any other team. Defensively, Sporting conceded just 12 goals, the lowest in the league.

Forward Thomyo L. Shimroy, who joined at the start of the 2023-24 season, played a pivotal role in the team’s success. He finished as joint top-scorer with 11 goals in 14 I-League 2 games. “I have been able to score so many goals because of the hard work of the whole team,” said Thomyo. “I am looking forward to the I-League next season. It is my dream to play in the I-League and the ISL (Indian Super League).”

Sporting’s meteoric rise is a testament to the club’s commitment to developing young talent and building a strong foundation. As they prepare for the I-League, the club’s ambition is to continue its upward trajectory and establish itself as a force in Indian football.

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Peruvian Football Legend Claudio Pizarro Visits India, Inspires Young Talent

Peruvian Football Legend Claudio Pizarro Visits India, Inspires Young Talent

By April 15, 2024 0

Claudio Pizarro, the legendary Peruvian footballer, recently visited India for the first time, leaving an unforgettable mark on the country’s football scene. During his brief two-day stay, Pizarro participated in a friendly match with the All Stars club, which included renowned actors and filmmakers.

Pizarro’s visit was part of Bundesliga’s initiative to identify and nurture Indian football talent, in collaboration with Big-Hit. The former Bayern Munich star expressed his admiration for India’s rich culture and history, expressing a desire to return for an extended stay.

Despite retiring from professional football in 2020, Pizarro remains actively involved in the sport as a club ambassador for Bayern Munich. He has consciously chosen to avoid coaching roles, prioritizing time for himself and his family.

Pizarro acknowledged his limited knowledge of Indian football but expressed keen interest in learning more. He praised the skills of Indian players, particularly Sunil Chhetri, and expressed his belief in the country’s potential to develop football talent.

When asked about his favorite English Premier League clubs, Pizarro revealed a preference for Chelsea, where he once played, and Manchester United, where he has friends. He expressed his admiration for both clubs and their rich history.

Pizarro’s visit to India has sparked excitement and enthusiasm among football enthusiasts. His presence has inspired aspiring footballers and highlighted the growing interest in the sport in the country.

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La Liga Academy Expands to Kolkata with Bhawanipore FC Partnership

La Liga Academy Expands to Kolkata with Bhawanipore FC Partnership

By April 13, 2024 0

La Liga Academy Football Schools, a global initiative of the Spanish football league, has expanded its presence in India by partnering with Bhawanipore FC in Kolkata. This collaboration marks the academy’s foray into the vibrant football landscape of West Bengal.

The partnership aims to establish a center of excellence that will provide technical support and training to young footballers in the city. The center will initially focus on boys in the under-13 and under-15 age groups, with plans to expand to girls in the future.

The program’s primary objective is to develop players for I-League second division, a stepping stone to the top tier of Indian football. Bhawanipore FC will scout talented boys from baby leagues and implement player development programs in schools across West Bengal.

Miguel Casal, technical director of La Liga Football Schools India, emphasized the importance of developing Indian coaches. “We want more kids to play under the La Liga methodology. We will be visiting the centers and giving training to coaches,” he said.

The program also includes a pay-and-play scheme, providing opportunities for aspiring footballers to train under the guidance of experienced coaches. Bhawanipore FC is exploring partnerships with boarding schools in Kolkata to offer residential options for players.

The academy’s curriculum will be integrated with the Blue Cubs grassroots development project initiated by the All India Football Federation. Step Out Analytics, a football analytics company, will provide data-driven insights to enhance the program’s effectiveness.

This partnership between La Liga Academy Football Schools and Bhawanipore FC is a significant step towards nurturing young football talent in India. It aims to create a pathway for aspiring players to reach the highest levels of the sport while also contributing to the overall development of Indian football.

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Mohammedan Sporting Clinches Maiden I-League Title, Earns ISL Promotion

Mohammedan Sporting Clinches Maiden I-League Title, Earns ISL Promotion

By April 11, 2024 0

Mohammedan Sporting, a venerable football club with a rich 133-year history, has etched its name in the annals of Indian football by clinching its maiden I-League title. This triumph secures the club’s promotion to the prestigious Indian Super League (ISL).

In a thrilling away fixture against Shillong Lajong FC, Mohammedan Sporting emerged victorious with a 2-1 scoreline, needing only a draw to seal the championship. With one game remaining, the club has already secured its ticket to the coveted league, subject to fulfilling the Indian Club Licensing System Premier 1 criteria.

Dipendu Biswas, the former India striker and current technical director of Mohammedan Sporting, expressed confidence in the club’s ability to meet all the licensing requirements set by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and the Football Sports Development Ltd. (FSDL), which operates the ISL.

“As far as I know, we will be able to fulfill all the criteria laid down by the AIFF and FSDL, including the Rs 100 crore bank guarantee clause,” said Biswas, who has guided the club through numerous challenges.

Biswas also confirmed that the Yuba Bharati Krirangan (Salt Lake Stadium) will serve as Mohammedan Sporting’s home ground in the ISL. “Yes, we will use Yuba Bharati Krirangan as our home ground,” he stated.

Despite concerns about potential pressure on the stadium if Mohammedan Sporting also uses it as its home ground, Biswas emphasized the club’s substantial fan base. “The number of supporters Mohammedan have is on par with East Bengal or Mohun Bangan. So, there is no question of thinking about some other ground. We will make Yuba Bharati our home ground,” he asserted.

Mohammedan Sporting will play its final I-League match at the Yuba Bharati Krirangan on April 13, providing an opportunity for the AIFF and FSDL to witness the club’s impressive fan following. “We expect more than 60,000 people to throng the stadium on Saturday,” said Biswas.

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India's Football Team Suffers Historic Low, Raises Questions About Stimac's Future

India’s Football Team Suffers Historic Low, Raises Questions About Stimac’s Future

By March 29, 2024 0

India’s men’s football team suffered a historic low on Tuesday, losing 2-1 to Afghanistan in Guwahati. This marked the team’s third consecutive defeat in three decades, a dismal record that includes losses to Pakistan in 2005 and Guam in 2015.

Despite the presence of star striker Sunil Chhetri, India’s performance was lackluster. The team lacked creativity and struggled to create scoring opportunities. Afghanistan, ranked 41 places below India in FIFA rankings, capitalized on India’s defensive lapses to secure a smash-and-grab victory.

India’s poor form has raised questions about the effectiveness of head coach Igor Stimac. While Stimac has led the team to some notable victories, including an away win against Kuwait last November, his tactics and player selection have come under scrutiny.

Some critics believe that Stimac has not been able to get the most out of his squad. Several key players, including goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu and defender Anwar Ali, have experienced a dip in form. Additionally, there are concerns about the team’s fitness and energy levels.

One potential solution to India’s struggles could be to allow Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) card holders to represent the national team. This would provide India with access to a wider pool of talented players. However, such a move would require a change in government policy, as India currently does not permit OCI card holders to play for the national team.

Despite the recent setbacks, Stimac remains optimistic about India’s chances of qualifying for the third round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. He believes that the team can improve its performance with proper preparation and support.

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