Football

The Mahindra Super League Kerala (MSLK), India's only domestic league allowing foreign players, kicks off on Saturday night at the Nehru Stadium in Kochi. The league has attracted a mix of experienced and talented young players, including former Indian Super League (ISL) champions and top scorers.Forca Kochi FC coach Mario Lemos emphasized the importance of experienced players mentoring young talents, who aspire to reach higher leagues like the ISL. The league aims to provide a platform for these young players to showcase their skills and bridge the gap to bigger opportunities.One notable signing is Alex Sanchez, last season's I-League top scorer, who turned down an ISL offer to remain with Malappuram FC in the MSLK. Malappuram, known for its football enthusiasm, has offered attractive packages to fans, including transportation and refreshments, to encourage attendance at the opening match against Forca Kochi.Despite the excitement, the league faces challenges. The Kerala Police is yet to release its players, including Santosh Trophy stars, due to pending government clearance. Additionally, some foreign players have not yet joined their teams.Despite the short pre-season, Lemos remains optimistic and sees Malappuram as a formidable opponent. The opening ceremony will feature performances by Jacqueline Fernandez, Stephen Devassy, and 'Drums' Sivamani, followed by the opening match at 8 p.m.The MSLK aims to fill the void for football fans in Kerala after the ISL season. However, it remains to be seen whether the league can overcome its initial hurdles and establish itself as a viable platform for young players and a source of entertainment for football enthusiasts.

Pau Cubarsi's meteoric rise in football reached new heights on Wednesday night as he orchestrated Barcelona's stunning victory over Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League quarterfinals.Despite his tender age of 17, Cubarsi displayed remarkable composure and skill in the hostile atmosphere of the Parc des Princes. The Catalan defender, hailing from a village of just 200 residents, made his mark on the grandest stage of club football.Cubarsi's performance was a testament to his exceptional talent. In the first half, he led the Barcelona defense with a series of crucial clearances and accurate passes. His peripheral vision allowed him to anticipate opposition moves and intercept passes with ease.The second half was no different. Cubarsi continued to dominate, winning the ball back five times and neutralizing the threat posed by PSG's star-studded attack. His ability to read the game and make decisive interventions left the spectators in awe.Cubarsi's rise to prominence has been rapid. After joining Barcelona from Girona FC in 2018, he made his La Liga debut earlier this year. His performance against PSG was his 15th first-team appearance, and he has already established himself as a key player for the Catalan giants.The Barcelona backline as a whole was in exceptional form, with Jules Kounde, Ronald Araujo, and Joao Cancelo also playing pivotal roles. Their collective effort stifled PSG's attack, led by the formidable Kylian Mbappe.Mbappe, who will join Real Madrid next season, was rendered ineffective by Barcelona's resolute defense. He managed only three shots, none of which were on target. His 44 touches were the fewest among PSG's outfield players who played the full game.Barcelona coach Xavi hailed Cubarsi's performance, praising his "unbeatable" spirit and his ability to compete like a seasoned veteran. The victory was a testament to the team's belief in their young players.Cubarsi's emergence is also a positive sign for Spain. With Euro 2024 approaching, Luis de la Fuente now has a promising option in the young defender. Spain has a rich history of producing world-class defenders, and Cubarsi has the potential to follow in their footsteps.