Odisha FC Aims for ISL Title, Other Teams Set for Competitive Season

Odisha FC Aims for ISL Title, Other Teams Set for Competitive Season

Odisha FC, buoyed by their impressive AFC Cup campaign and a strong finish in the Indian Super League (ISL) last season, has set their sights on the ISL title this year. Head coach Sergio Lobera expressed confidence in his team’s ability to challenge for the championship, stating that they are better prepared than ever before.

“We had an amazing season last year, finishing at the top of the group in the AFC Cup. We were close to winning the Super Cup and we reached the ISL semifinals for the first time in the club’s history. I am very proud of what we did last season. And hopefully, with more luck we can do a little bit more this season,” Lobera said.

Odisha FC’s determination is shared by other teams in the league. Mohammedan SC, after winning the I-League last season, is eager to make an impact in the ISL. Head coach Andrey Chernyshov emphasized the importance of making their promotion count by reaching the playoffs.

NorthEast United FC, which narrowly missed out on the playoffs last season, is also aiming high. Coach Juan Pedro Benali acknowledged the team’s past success in the Durand Cup but stressed the need to focus on the ISL.

Mohun Bagan Super Giant, the defending ISL champions, is looking to retain their title with a revamped squad. New coach Jose Molina is confident in the team’s preparation and is determined to keep the League Shield in Kolkata.

East Bengal FC, another Kolkata-based club, has also bolstered its squad and is hoping for a better performance this season. Coach Carles Cuadrat expressed optimism that the team can make it to the knockout stages.

Punjab FC and Jamshedpur FC are also among the teams hoping to make a mark in the ISL. Coach Panagiotis Dilmperis of Punjab FC and Jamshedpur FC’s coach analyzed their chances and expressed their desire to perform well.

The ISL is set to be a competitive and exciting season, with several teams vying for the title. Odisha FC, with its strong determination and improved squad, is certainly one to watch.

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.

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