Football

India's hopes of qualifying for the third round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers suffered a setback after they were defeated 2-1 by Afghanistan in a Group A match in Kolkata. The defeat leaves India in second place with four points, behind Qatar (6 points) and ahead of Afghanistan (4 points) and Kuwait (1 point).India head coach Igor Stimac attributed the loss to a lack of adequate practice and a disjointed performance. He emphasized the need for a minimum three-week camp to prepare the team for international engagements."Half of our players are unable to bring that intensity which is needed to take the game to the desired level. I cannot change that in five days (the practice time India got before the match) and I have been saying this many times over in the last few months," Stimac said.Stimac also pointed out that many Indian players play a secondary role for their clubs, which affects their performance at the international level. He stressed the importance of proper preparation time to allow players to reorient themselves to their playing positions.Despite the defeat, Stimac remains optimistic about India's chances of qualifying for the third round. He believes that the team can improve with a longer camp and better preparation."Of course, we can qualify. We will be a different team after the long camp that will come up after the ISL (ahead of the next match against Kuwait) and hopefully get things right in the end and qualify to the third round," Stimac said.India's next match is against Kuwait on June 13 in Kuwait City. A win in that match will be crucial for India's hopes of qualifying for the third round.

Indian defender Bijay Chhetri has made history by becoming the first Indian footballer to sign for a Latin American club. The 22-year-old has joined Uruguayan second division side Colon FC on loan until the end of the year.Chhetri, who hails from Manipur, began his career with Shillong Lajong in 2016. He made his senior debut for Indian Arrows in 2018 and has since played for Chennai City, Real Kashmir, and Sreenidi Deccan. He joined Chennaiyin FC for the 2022-23 Indian Super League season.Chhetri's move to Colon FC is a significant step for Indian football. It shows that Indian players are capable of playing at a high level in competitive leagues around the world. Chhetri will be hoping to impress at Colon FC and earn a permanent move to the club.Chhetri's success could pave the way for other Indian players to move abroad. There is a growing interest in Indian football from clubs in Europe and South America, and Chhetri's move to Colon FC could help to open doors for other talented Indian players.Chhetri is a versatile defender who can play at left-back or center-back. He is known for his pace, strength, and tackling ability. He is also a good passer of the ball and can contribute to the attack.Chhetri's move to Colon FC is a major boost for Indian football. It shows that Indian players are capable of playing at a high level and that there is a growing interest in Indian football from clubs around the world.

Ukraine, Georgia, and Poland have secured their spots in the 24-nation Euro 2024 lineup after thrilling qualifying playoffs.Ukraine's Triumphant ComebackUkraine, representing a war-torn nation, displayed resilience and determination in their 2-1 victory over Iceland. Mykhailo Mudryk's sweeping goal in the 84th minute sealed the win, echoing their late comeback in the previous playoff against Bosnia-Herzegovina. Ukraine's "home" game was played in neutral Poland due to security concerns in Kyiv.Georgia's Historic DebutGeorgia made history by qualifying for their first major tournament. They defeated Greece 4-2 in a penalty shootout after a tense 0-0 draw. Star forward Khvicha Kvaratskhelia led the charge, while goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili saved two Greek spot-kicks. Georgia will face Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal, Turkey, and the Czech Republic in Group F.Poland's Ticket to GermanyPoland became the last team to book their ticket to Germany, edging out Wales 5-4 in a penalty shootout after a 0-0 draw. Captain Robert Lewandowski, who scored the first penalty, watched anxiously as Wojciech Szczesny denied Dan James' final attempt. Poland will face France, the Netherlands, and Austria in Group D.Eastern European FlavorThe Euro 2024 lineup now boasts a stronger eastern European presence. Ukraine, Georgia, and Poland join Russia, who were banned from qualifying due to the ongoing military invasion. This reflects the growing competitiveness of football in the region.Tournament DetailsEuro 2024 will be played in 10 German cities from June 14 to July 14. Ukraine will face Romania, Slovakia, and Belgium in Group F. Georgia will play Portugal, Turkey, and the Czech Republic in Group F. Poland will face France, the Netherlands, and Austria in Group D.

Wales' Euro 2024 hopes were dashed in heartbreaking fashion as Poland edged them out 5-4 on penalties in Cardiff. After a tense 0-0 draw, Leeds winger Dan James was the only player to miss in the shootout, sending Poland to Germany this summer.Despite the presence of Barcelona star Robert Lewandowski, Poland failed to register a single shot on target in 120 minutes. However, they found their range from the spot, with Lewandowski, Sebastian Szymanski, Przemyslaw Frankowski, Nicola Zalewski, and Krzysztof Piatek all converting confidently.Wales, missing the talismanic Gareth Bale, created a good game but lacked the creative spark to break down a resolute Polish defense. Kieffer Moore provided a physical presence up front, but his header was spectacularly saved by Wojciech Szczesny.The home side finished the 90 minutes in the ascendency but could not find the breakthrough. In extra time, Poland came closest to winning the game, but Jakub Piotrowski's effort flew inches past the far post.Wales saw out the final few seconds with 10 men after Chris Mepham was shown a second yellow card. But their first experience of penalties was a sour one, with James' miss proving costly."It's a cruel game," said Wales boss Rob Page. "We'll be bigger and stronger for having gone through this horrible experience. This group is going somewhere. There is a lot more to come, there are good times ahead."Poland coach Michal Probierz praised his team's performance: "We created a good, emotional game. This is a very important day for us."

Brazil and Spain played out a thrilling 3-3 draw in a friendly match at the Santiago Bernabeu on Tuesday, with both teams showcasing their attacking prowess and resilience.The match, organized to combat racism, saw Brazil captain Vinicius Junior largely kept quiet, while his teenage compatriot Endrick continued to impress. Spain's Lamine Yamal also shone, winning the penalty that Rodri converted for the opening goal.Spain dominated the first half, with Dani Olmo doubling their lead with a fine individual effort. However, Brazil pulled one back before the break when Unai Simon gifted Rodrygo a goal.Endrick equalized for Brazil early in the second half, but Rodri restored Spain's lead from the spot after Dani Carvajal was fouled. Brazil refused to give up and earned a late penalty when Carvajal cynically pulled back Galeno. Lucas Paqueta converted the spot-kick to snatch a draw in stoppage time.Despite the friendly nature of the match, the intensity was high, with both teams eager to prove their worth. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente fielded a strong side, while Brazil coach Dorival Junior gave Endrick his first appearance at the home of his future club, Real Madrid.The match was a testament to the quality and competitiveness of both teams, and it served as a reminder of the importance of combating racism in football.

India's hopes of advancing to the third round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers suffered a significant setback as they succumbed to a 2-1 defeat against Afghanistan in a Group A match at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in Guwahati.Sunil Chhetri, India's all-time leading scorer, gave the hosts an early lead in the 36th minute with a penalty, marking his 94th international goal in his 150th appearance for the country. However, Afghanistan regrouped in the second half and turned the tables on India.Rahmat Akbari equalized for Afghanistan in the 70th minute with a powerful drive, and Sharif Mukhammad converted a penalty in the 88th minute to seal the victory for the visitors.India's defensive approach in the second half proved costly as Afghanistan exploited gaps in the Indian defense with their high-press tactics. The Afghans' physical play also posed a challenge for India, who struggled to find a solution.Despite the defeat, India remains in contention for a third-round berth, but they will need to win their next match against Kuwait on June 6.

Sunil Chhetri, the legendary Indian footballer, has etched his name in the annals of international football history by reaching the milestone of 150 appearances for his country. The talismanic striker achieved this remarkable feat during India's 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier match against Afghanistan at Guwahati's Indira Gandhi International Stadium.Chhetri's illustrious career has been marked by numerous accolades and achievements. He is the third-highest active goalscorer in international football, trailing only Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. With his goal against Afghanistan, Chhetri extended his unique record of scoring for India in his first, 25th, 50th, 75th, 100th, 125th, and 150th games.Despite Chhetri's historic goal, India suffered a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Afghanistan. However, the match marked a significant milestone for the Indian team, as it ended their goalless run this year. India's last goal came against Kuwait in November 2023.Prior to the match, Chhetri was felicitated by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) in recognition of his remarkable achievement. AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey, Assam Football Association secretary Sangrang Brahma, and AIFF's technical committee chairperson I.M. Vijayan presented souvenirs to the India skipper.Chhetri's journey to 150 international appearances began on June 12, 2005, when he made his debut in a friendly match against Pakistan. Since then, he has become an icon of Indian football, inspiring generations of young players.Chhetri's achievements are a testament to his dedication, hard work, and unwavering passion for the game. He has represented India with distinction on the international stage, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Indian footballers.

India vs Afghanistan: Blue Tigers Aim for Historic Victory in World Cup QualifierIndia will face Afghanistan in a crucial Group A match of the second round of the FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifier on Tuesday, March 26. The match, which will also serve as the second round of the Asian Football Confederation Championship Qualifier, will be played at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in Guwahati.This match holds immense significance for India, as captain Sunil Chhetri is set to make his 150th international appearance. Chhetri, India's all-time leading scorer, will become only the second Indian player to reach this milestone.India's qualification hopes received a setback after their 1-1 draw in the away leg against Afghanistan last week. The Blue Tigers currently sit second in the group with four points from three games, one point ahead of Kuwait.To advance to the third round, India must secure a positive result against Afghanistan. A win would put them in a strong position, while a draw would keep their hopes alive. However, a loss would virtually eliminate India from contention.India have never reached the third round of the World Cup Qualifiers, and this match represents a historic opportunity for them to make history. The Blue Tigers have shown resilience and determination in recent matches, and they will be eager to put in a strong performance in front of their home crowd.Afghanistan, on the other hand, will be looking to build on their impressive performance in the first leg. They currently sit third in the group with three points from three games and will be confident of causing an upset in Guwahati.The match is expected to be a closely contested affair, with both teams desperate for a positive result. India will be relying on the experience of Chhetri and the support of their home crowd, while Afghanistan will be looking to exploit India's defensive vulnerabilities.

Dani Alves Released on Bail Pending Appeal in Rape CaseConvicted rapist and former Brazil international Dani Alves was released from prison near Barcelona on Monday after posting the one-million-euro bail set by a court to ensure his release pending appeal.Alves, one of the world's most decorated footballers, walked out of the Brians 2 prison in San Esteban Sasroviras near Barcelona, an AFP correspondent at the scene said.The 39-year-old was arrested in January and charged with sexually assaulting a woman in a nightclub in Barcelona on December 30. He has denied the allegations.On February 20, a court in Barcelona ordered Alves to be held in pre-trial detention without bail, citing the risk of flight and the severity of the charges.However, on Monday, the court granted Alves's appeal for release pending trial. The court set a bail of one million euros, which Alves's lawyers paid.Alves is now required to surrender his passport and appear before the court regularly. He is also prohibited from contacting the alleged victim or entering the nightclub where the incident allegedly occurred.The trial date has not yet been set. If convicted, Alves could face up to 12 years in prison.Alves has had a distinguished career, winning numerous titles with Barcelona, Juventus, and Paris Saint-Germain. He also played for the Brazilian national team, winning the Copa America twice.His arrest and conviction have shocked the football world and raised questions about the safety of women in nightclubs.