Football

Mumbai City FC staged a remarkable comeback in the second half to salvage a 2-2 draw against Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the opening match of the Indian Super League's 11th season at the Salt Lake Stadium on Friday.The hosts enjoyed a dominant first half, with Liston Colaco's ninth-minute goal giving them the lead. Alberto Rodriguez doubled their advantage in the 28th minute, capitalizing on a corner kick.However, Mumbai City turned the tide after the break. Tiri, who had scored an own goal in the first half, redeemed himself by reducing the deficit in the 70th minute. Substitute Thaer Krouma then netted the equalizer in the dying minutes of regulation time, sending the visiting fans into raptures.The result was reminiscent of the Durand Cup final played two weeks prior, where Mohun Bagan squandered a two-goal lead in the first half and eventually lost to NorthEast United FC on penalties.Mumbai City's comeback was a testament to their resilience and determination. Despite trailing by two goals, they refused to give up and fought back valiantly to earn a share of the spoils.Mohun Bagan, on the other hand, will be disappointed to have let slip a two-goal advantage. They were in control for much of the first half but failed to maintain their intensity after the break.The match was a thrilling start to the new Indian Super League season, showcasing the attacking prowess and defensive resilience of both teams.

The Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season kicks off with a blockbuster clash between Mohun Bagan and Mumbai City FC at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata on Friday, September 13.Mohun Bagan, the reigning ISL Shield winners, will be eager to make a strong start to their title defense. They have a perfect record in ISL season openers, having won both their previous matches against Kerala Blasters FC. However, their record against Mumbai City FC is less impressive, with only one victory in 10 encounters.Mumbai City FC, the ISL Cup winners, have undergone a change in leadership with Lallianzuala Chhangte taking over the captaincy from Rahul Bheke, who has moved to Bengaluru FC. The Islanders will be looking to avenge their defeat to Mohun Bagan in the ISL final last season.Both teams have made significant additions to their squads during the transfer window. Mohun Bagan have signed the likes of Aniket Jadhav, Asish Rai, and Nongdamba Naorem, while Mumbai City FC have brought in Mehtab Singh, Rostyn Griffiths, and Jorge Pereyra Diaz.The match is expected to be a close and exciting affair, with both teams possessing a wealth of talent and experience. Mohun Bagan will be relying on the goalscoring prowess of Hugo Boumous and Liston Colaco, while Mumbai City FC will look to their captain Chhangte and the creativity of Greg Stewart.The match will be telecasted live on Sports 18 and streamed live on Jio Cinema. Kick-off is scheduled for 7:30 PM IST.

India Defender Anwar Ali, East Bengal, and Delhi FC Challenge AIFF SuspensionIndia defender Anwar Ali, along with his current club East Bengal and parent club Delhi FC, have filed a writ petition with the Delhi High Court challenging the four-month suspension imposed on the player by the All India Football Federation (AIFF). The suspension stems from Anwar's alleged "illegal termination" of his four-year contract with Mohun Bagan.The AIFF's Players Status Committee found Anwar guilty of breaching his contract and ordered him, East Bengal, and Delhi FC to pay a hefty compensation of Rs 12.90 crore to Mohun Bagan. The compensation includes Rs 8.40 crore for the residual value of the contract, Rs 2 crore paid to Delhi FC under a loan agreement, and Rs 2.50 crore for other damages.Delhi FC owner Ranjit Bajaj expressed concern over the suspension, stating that it would deprive Anwar of valuable playing time. "How can we let the player lose out on matches in the coming days? You can get money back, but you can't get the matches back once they are played," he said.East Bengal's top official, Debabrata Sarkar, echoed Bajaj's sentiments, emphasizing the importance of Anwar's participation in the upcoming Indian Super League (ISL). "We have approached the Delhi HC to ensure that Anwar can play until the AIFF's Appeals Committee makes a decision on the matter," Sarkar said. "The player's career should not be affected at all cost."The AIFF's Players Status Committee also banned East Bengal and Delhi FC from registering players for two transfer windows for their involvement in Anwar's contract breach. The committee ruled that all three parties are jointly liable for the compensation amount.Anwar's transfer to East Bengal sparked controversy in Kolkata, with Mohun Bagan challenging the move and filing a complaint with the AIFF. The 23-year-old defender played a crucial role in Mohun Bagan's ISL Shield-winning campaign last season, scoring three goals and providing one assist in 26 games.The Delhi High Court is expected to hear the writ petition on Friday. The outcome of the case will have significant implications for Anwar's career and the future of player contracts in Indian football.

The Indian Super League (ISL) kicks off its 11th season on Friday with a highly anticipated clash between last season's finalists Mohun Bagan and Mumbai City FC. This season marks a significant milestone as Kolkata's "Big Three" clubs—Mohun Bagan, East Bengal, and Mohammedan SC—now compete in India's top-tier football competition.Mohammedan SC, the 103-year-old club, joins its city rivals after winning the I-League last season. Mohun Bagan, who merged with ATK in 2020, has been a consistent title contender since joining the ISL, winning the Shield last season but losing the final to Mumbai City FC. East Bengal completed the transition of Kolkata's famous clubs to the ISL, reigniting their century-old rivalry at the highest level.The opener between Mohun Bagan and Mumbai City promises to set the tone for an exciting season. Mohun Bagan has strengthened its attack with Australian star Jamie Maclaren, while Mumbai City has brought in several new faces, including Brandon Fernandes and Nikolaos Karelis.The 2024-25 season promises to be more open and competitive, with NorthEast United FC setting the tone with a thrilling victory in the Durand Cup. Juan Pedro Benali's team, which narrowly missed the playoffs last season, will look to build on their success.The shadow of Anwar Ali's four-month ban and hefty fine will loom large over East Bengal. Mohammedan Sporting faces a tough season ahead due to the departure of key players, but they have bolstered their squad with several new signings.Last season's semifinalists FC Goa will enter with renewed optimism under Manolo Marquez, who will juggle his club duties with his national team job. Chennaiyin FC and Bengaluru FC will also push to challenge for playoff success, while Sergio Lobera's Odisha FC will look to add to their Super Cup title.Kerala Blasters may struggle due to a weakened squad, while all eyes will be on Indian coach Khalid Jamil at Jamshedpur FC. Hyderabad FC, who endured financial instability in the build-up to the season, will face an uphill task.

Indian defender Anwar Ali's controversial transfer from Mohun Bagan Super Giant to East Bengal has resulted in severe consequences for all parties involved. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has imposed a four-month suspension on Ali, while his parent club Delhi FC and East Bengal have been barred from registering new players for two transfer windows.The AIFF's Players' Statue Committee (PSC) found Ali guilty of terminating his four-year loan deal with Mohun Bagan Super Giant without proper authorization. As a result, Ali, Delhi FC, and East Bengal have been ordered to pay a combined compensation of Rs 12.90 crores to Mohun Bagan.Ali's suspension is a significant blow to the Indian national team, where he has been a key member of the defense. The 23-year-old has played 22 matches for the Blue Tigers since making his debut in 2022, helping them win the Tri-Nation series, Intercontinental Cup, and SAFF Championship.Ali's rise to prominence began with the Minerva Academy before he joined the AIFF's developmental side in 2017. He made his Indian Super League debut in 2021 and has played 46 matches in the league so far.Despite being a center-back, Ali has also shown his attacking prowess, scoring three goals and providing one assist in 26 matches last season. He was also the top scorer for Delhi FC in the 2021 I-League Qualifiers with four goals.In the 2023-24 ISL season, Ali registered four clean sheets, 18 interceptions, 17 tackles, 45 successful duels, 19 successful aerial duels, 9 blocks, 67 recoveries, 52 clearances, and 549 successful passes in 16 matches.The AIFF's decision to punish Ali, Delhi FC, and East Bengal sends a strong message that contractual obligations must be respected in Indian football. The consequences of this case will likely have a lasting impact on the transfer market and the conduct of players and clubs in the future.

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.

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.

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.

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.