<p>The match between ATK Mohun Bagan and Odisha FC, scheduled for Saturday evening, in the ongoing Indian Super League (ISL) has been postponed by the organisers after a player from the Kolkata-based team tested positive for Covid-19.</p>

<p><br />
The match was to be held at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda and the league will now look to reschedule the fixture to a later date.</p>

<p>"Indian Super League (ISL) has decided to postpone Match No 53 between ATK Mohun Bagan and Odisha FC scheduled to be played today, Saturday, January 8, 2022, at PJN Stadium in Fatorda," the ISL said in a statement.</p>

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<p>"The decision has been taken in consultation with the League`s medical team after an ATK Mohun Bagan player tested positive for Covid-19," it added.</p>

<p>The ISL will work closely with the medical experts to monitor and ensure the safety of all the players and support staff in the squad and others involved, the release said.</p>

<p>The ongoing season of ISL is being held behind closed doors, across three stadiums in Goa due to the pandemic.</p>


The match between ATK Mohun Bagan and Odisha FC, scheduled for Saturday evening, in the ongoing Indian Super League (ISL) has been postponed by the organisers after a player from the Kolkata-based team tested positive for Covid-19.

The match between ATK Mohun Bagan and Odisha FC, scheduled for Saturday evening, in the ongoing Indian Super League (ISL) has been postponed by the organisers after a player from the Kolkata-based team tested positive for Covid-19. The match was to be held at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda and the league will now look to reschedule the fixture to a later date. "Indian Super League (ISL) has decided to postpone Match No 53 between ATK Mohun Bagan and Odisha FC scheduled to be played today, Saturday, January 8, 2022, at PJN Stadium in Fatorda," the ISL said in a statement. Read Also | Borussia Moenchengladbach scores two goals in four minutes to stun Bayern Munich in Bundesliga "The decision has been taken in consultation with the League`s medical team after an ATK Mohun Bagan player tested positive for Covid-19," it added. The ISL will work closely with the medical experts to monitor and ensure the safety of all the players and support staff in the squad and others involved, the release said. The ongoing season of ISL is being held behind closed doors, across three stadiums in Goa due to the pandemic.

ISL 2021-22: ATK Mohun Bagan's clash against Odisha FC postponed due to Covid-19

<p>SC East Bengal held reigning champions Mumbai City FC to a goalless draw in an Indian Super League match here on Friday.</p>

<p>The result allowed City to reclaim the first place in the points table. However, their winless streak extends to four matches while SCEB is now 10 games without a win.</p>

<p>Igor Angulo was the first to test the goalkeeper as his header was comfortably saved by Arindam Bhattacharja.</p>

<p>Daniel Chima Chukwu was next to threaten the goal on the other end but his attempt from close-range went narrowly past the right side of the goal. SCEB were dealt an early blow due to injury to Joyner Lourenco who needed to be replaced by Ankit Mukherjee.</p>

<p>Both teams struggled to create major scoring chances in the first half. The Islanders dominated the possession but found it tough to find spaces behind SCEB's back-line. Due to the resilient defending from the Red &amp; Golds, both teams went into the half-time break on level terms.</p>

<p>Mohammad Rafique was sent in the second half as a replacement to Bikash Jairu. A few minutes post the restart, strong calls for a penalty from MCFC players were denied by the referee as Adil Khaan allegedly fouled Cassio Gabriel inside the box.</p>

<p>The Brazilian then blasted a long-range drive which was expertly parried away by Bhattacharja. The frustration could be seen amongst the MCFC ranks as Ahmed Jahouh came close with a long-range strike at the hour mark.&nbsp;</p>


SC East Bengal held reigning champions Mumbai City FC to a goalless draw in an Indian Super League match here on Friday. The result allowed City to reclaim the first place in the points table.

SC East Bengal held reigning champions Mumbai City FC to a goalless draw in an Indian Super League match here on Friday. The result allowed City to reclaim the first place in the points table. However, their winless streak extends to four matches while SCEB is now 10 games without a win. Igor Angulo was the first to test the goalkeeper as his header was comfortably saved by Arindam Bhattacharja. Daniel Chima Chukwu was next to threaten the goal on the other end but his attempt from close-range went narrowly past the right side of the goal. SCEB were dealt an early blow due to injury to Joyner Lourenco who needed to be replaced by Ankit Mukherjee. Both teams struggled to create major scoring chances in the first half. The Islanders dominated the possession but found it tough to find spaces behind SCEB's back-line. Due to the resilient defending from the Red & Golds, both teams went into the half-time break on level terms. Mohammad Rafique was sent in the second half as a replacement to Bikash Jairu. A few minutes post the restart, strong calls for a penalty from MCFC players were denied by the referee as Adil Khaan allegedly fouled Cassio Gabriel inside the box. The Brazilian then blasted a long-range drive which was expertly parried away by Bhattacharja. The frustration could be seen amongst the MCFC ranks as Ahmed Jahouh came close with a long-range strike at the hour mark.

Mumbai City FC regain top spot after goalless draw with SC East Bengal

<p>ATK Mohun Bagan and Hyderabad FC shared points after they played out a 2-2 draw in the Hero Indian Super League match at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, here on Wednesday. Mohun Bagan`s David Williams scored for the team but Javier Siverio`s late strike ensured Hyderabad FC moved to the top of the table after a rip-roaring encounter.<br />
<br />
Williams, playing ahead of Roy Krishna who started on the bench, took just 12 seconds to score before Bartholomew Ogbeche continued his goalscoring spree with an equaliser in the 18th minute. An own goal from Asish Rai (64th) almost poured cold water on Hyderabad`s hopes of going top of the tree before substitute Siverio flicked a loopy ball inside the box into the goal.<br />
<br />
Hyderabad edged past Mumbai City FC on goal difference. Both teams have 16 points from nine games. ATK Mohun Bagan moved to the third spot with 15 points from nine outings.</p>

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<p>Bagan raced a 1-0 lead inside the first minute, Williams racking up his record goal with a powerful strike from outside the box that went in kissing Hyderabad keeper Laxmikant Kattimani`s gloves after Hugo Boumous set him up. The experienced Kattimani could have done better but at the other end, Amrinder Singh committed an even worse blunder in the 18th minute when he failed to hold on to a simple catch and the ball fell to Ogbeche.<br />
<br />
The Nigerian in-form striker made no mistake, slamming the ball into an open net to net his ninth goal of the campaign. Amrinder was at fault once again as he passed the ball to Ogbeche where he should be cleared but the Hyderabad marksman could not make the most of it.<br />
<br />
ATK Mohun Bagan suffered a setback when Carl McHugh had to be replaced just on the cusp of halftime after the Irish midfielder suffered a concussion and had to be taken off the field in an ambulance. Before halftime, Boumous picked up his fourth yellow card meaning he will miss the next game.<br />
<br />
The second half saw Hyderabad put up a solid defensive display until Williams dribbled past Akash Mishra and crossed for Joni Kauko who nodded in expertly at the far post off a slight deflection from Asish Rai. The goal was adjudged as an own goal by Rai.</p>

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<p>Having taken the lead for the second time in the game, the Mariners kept pushing for that insurance goal as Liston Colaco came close to scoring from a crisp Williams reverse pass.<br />
<br />
Juan Ferrando added teeth upfront with the introduction of Roy Krishna in the 72nd minute in place of Williams who capped off a superb display. Just when it looked like Mohun Bagan would scrape through, Siverio made sure Hyderabad went top of the heap with an opportunistic strike.</p>


ATK Mohun Bagan and Hyderabad FC shared points after they played out a 2-2 draw in the Hero Indian Super League match at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, here on Wednesday.

ATK Mohun Bagan and Hyderabad FC shared points after they played out a 2-2 draw in the Hero Indian Super League match at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, here on Wednesday. Mohun Bagan`s David Williams scored for the team but Javier Siverio`s late strike ensured Hyderabad FC moved to the top of the table after a rip-roaring encounter. Williams, playing ahead of Roy Krishna who started on the bench, took just 12 seconds to score before Bartholomew Ogbeche continued his goalscoring spree with an equaliser in the 18th minute. An own goal from Asish Rai (64th) almost poured cold water on Hyderabad`s hopes of going top of the tree before substitute Siverio flicked a loopy ball inside the box into the goal. Hyderabad edged past Mumbai City FC on goal difference. Both teams have 16 points from nine games. ATK Mohun Bagan moved to the third spot with 15 points from nine outings. ALSO READ | Ferran Torres and Pedri latest to test positive for COVID-19 as Barcelona deal with virus outbreak Bagan raced a 1-0 lead inside the first minute, Williams racking up his record goal with a powerful strike from outside the box that went in kissing Hyderabad keeper Laxmikant Kattimani`s gloves after Hugo Boumous set him up. The experienced Kattimani could have done better but at the other end, Amrinder Singh committed an even worse blunder in the 18th minute when he failed to hold on to a simple catch and the ball fell to Ogbeche. The Nigerian in-form striker made no mistake, slamming the ball into an open net to net his ninth goal of the campaign. Amrinder was at fault once again as he passed the ball to Ogbeche where he should be cleared but the Hyderabad marksman could not make the most of it. ATK Mohun Bagan suffered a setback when Carl McHugh had to be replaced just on the cusp of halftime after the Irish midfielder suffered a concussion and had to be taken off the field in an ambulance. Before halftime, Boumous picked up his fourth yellow card meaning he will miss the next game. The second half saw Hyderabad put up a solid defensive display until Williams dribbled past Akash Mishra and crossed for Joni Kauko who nodded in expertly at the far post off a slight deflection from Asish Rai. The goal was adjudged as an own goal by Rai. ALSO READ | Lionel Messi to Robert Lewandowski: A look at players with most goals in a calendar year since 2017 Having taken the lead for the second time in the game, the Mariners kept pushing for that insurance goal as Liston Colaco came close to scoring from a crisp Williams reverse pass. Juan Ferrando added teeth upfront with the introduction of Roy Krishna in the 72nd minute in place of Williams who capped off a superb display. Just when it looked like Mohun Bagan would scrape through, Siverio made sure Hyderabad went top of the heap with an opportunistic strike.

ISL 2021-22: Hyderabad FC hold ATK Mohun Bagan to split points, remain on top

<p>Odisha FC completed a scintillating second-half comeback recording an impressive 4-2 win over Mumbai City FC at the Tilak Maidan Stadium in the 2021-22 Indian Super League (ISL) 2021-22. The result leaves Des Buckingham`s men winless in three games.</p>

<p>Victory for Kiko Ramirez`s men means that only three points separate them from the league leaders despite being in seventh place on the table.&nbsp;Aridai Cabrera (4`) scored an early goal against the run of play but Ahmed Jahouh (11`) quickly brought the game on level terms with a superb finish.</p>

<p>Igor Angulo (38`) then headed his team into the lead before Jerry Mawihmingthanga (70`, 77`) scored a memorable brace to hand the lead back to the Kalinga Warriors. Jonathas (89`) put the result beyond any doubt by scoring the fourth.</p>

<p>The match began at a rapid pace as Odisha FC scored an early goal. Mumbai City FC`s Mourtada Fall gave the ball away with an unforced error in his own half which led to Aridai Cabrera cutting inside from the left flank and unleashing a curling shot towards the far post.</p>

<p>Mohammad Nawaz got both hands on the ball and yet could not prevent the ball from rolling inside the net. A few minutes later, Ahmed Jahouh found the back of the net with a sensational curling shot from almost 25-yards out. The midfielder was fed by Cassio Gabriel with a perfectly weighted pass for the equaliser.</p>

<p>Raynier Fernandes had a great opportunity to send his team into the lead at the half-hour mark but the midfielder miscued his header which went wide to his disappointment. However, it was Igor Angulo who finally gave the Islanders the lead with a precise header from a Jahouh free-kick.</p>

<p>The second half also started on a fiery note as OFC began on the front foot. Moments after the hour mark, Sahil Tanwar missed an easy header to score the equaliser from 12-yards away after finding himself unmarked inside the box.</p>

<p>Ygor Catatau looked to have scored another goal from the bench but he was adjudged to be in an offside position.Within seconds on the other end, Jerry Mawihmingthanga scored his first goal of the season and equalised with a diving header at the far post.</p>

<p>The winger then proceeded to score OFC`s third and stunned the league leaders with a powerful drive that went straight into the top corner from the right flank. To inflict more misery, Jerry turned provider by delivering a pinpoint cross for Jonathas who calmly placed his shot in the back of the net to score the fourth.</p>

<p>A late headed attempt from Catatau was saved by Kamaljit Singh from point-blank range who showed incredible reflexes to keep the Islanders at bay. The Kalinga Warriors held on to their lead and managed their fourth win of the season.</p>

<p>Top-ranked Mumbai City FC will play bottom-ranked SC East Bengal in their next fixture at the Tilak Maidan Stadium on Friday whereas Odisha FC faces Juan Ferrando`s ATK Mohun Bagan at the PJN Stadium on Saturday.&nbsp;</p>


Odisha FC completed a scintillating second-half comeback recording an impressive 4-2 win over Mumbai City FC at the Tilak Maidan Stadium in the 2021-22 Indian Super League (ISL) 2021-22.

Odisha FC completed a scintillating second-half comeback recording an impressive 4-2 win over Mumbai City FC at the Tilak Maidan Stadium in the 2021-22 Indian Super League (ISL) 2021-22. The result leaves Des Buckingham`s men winless in three games. Victory for Kiko Ramirez`s men means that only three points separate them from the league leaders despite being in seventh place on the table. Aridai Cabrera (4`) scored an early goal against the run of play but Ahmed Jahouh (11`) quickly brought the game on level terms with a superb finish. Igor Angulo (38`) then headed his team into the lead before Jerry Mawihmingthanga (70`, 77`) scored a memorable brace to hand the lead back to the Kalinga Warriors. Jonathas (89`) put the result beyond any doubt by scoring the fourth. The match began at a rapid pace as Odisha FC scored an early goal. Mumbai City FC`s Mourtada Fall gave the ball away with an unforced error in his own half which led to Aridai Cabrera cutting inside from the left flank and unleashing a curling shot towards the far post. Mohammad Nawaz got both hands on the ball and yet could not prevent the ball from rolling inside the net. A few minutes later, Ahmed Jahouh found the back of the net with a sensational curling shot from almost 25-yards out. The midfielder was fed by Cassio Gabriel with a perfectly weighted pass for the equaliser. Raynier Fernandes had a great opportunity to send his team into the lead at the half-hour mark but the midfielder miscued his header which went wide to his disappointment. However, it was Igor Angulo who finally gave the Islanders the lead with a precise header from a Jahouh free-kick. The second half also started on a fiery note as OFC began on the front foot. Moments after the hour mark, Sahil Tanwar missed an easy header to score the equaliser from 12-yards away after finding himself unmarked inside the box. Ygor Catatau looked to have scored another goal from the bench but he was adjudged to be in an offside position.Within seconds on the other end, Jerry Mawihmingthanga scored his first goal of the season and equalised with a diving header at the far post. The winger then proceeded to score OFC`s third and stunned the league leaders with a powerful drive that went straight into the top corner from the right flank. To inflict more misery, Jerry turned provider by delivering a pinpoint cross for Jonathas who calmly placed his shot in the back of the net to score the fourth. A late headed attempt from Catatau was saved by Kamaljit Singh from point-blank range who showed incredible reflexes to keep the Islanders at bay. The Kalinga Warriors held on to their lead and managed their fourth win of the season. Top-ranked Mumbai City FC will play bottom-ranked SC East Bengal in their next fixture at the Tilak Maidan Stadium on Friday whereas Odisha FC faces Juan Ferrando`s ATK Mohun Bagan at the PJN Stadium on Saturday.

ISL: Odisha FC stun table-toppers Mumbai City to throw league wide open with 4-2 win

<p>Hyderabad FC recorded an emphatic 6-1 win over Odisha FC in the Hero Indian Super League at the Athletic Stadium in Bambolim, Goa on Tuesday. Hyderabad FC striker Bartholomew Ogbeche scored in the 39th and 60th minute. Edu Garcia (54th), Javier Siverio (72nd), and Joao Victor (86 P) too got on the scoresheet for Hyderabad in a mind-blowing second-half display.<br />
<br />
For Odisha, Juanan scored an own goal in the 16th minute to make it 1-1, but after that, it was one-way traffic till the final whistle. The result means Hyderabad remain second in the points table with 15 points from eight games while Odisha are seventh in the table having 10 points from eight matches. Ogbeche is now the top scorer with eight goals to his name.<br />
<br />
The game got off to an eventful start as Hyderabad FC went ahead in the ninth minute. Edu Garcia swung in a delightful free-kick at the near post with Joao Victor flicking it on as the ball took a deflection off Hector Rodas and went in.</p>

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<p>Hyderabad`s joy was short-lived as Odisha equalised. It was almost a repeat of Hyderabad`s opener as Javier Hernandez`s free-kick came off a host of bodies inside the box and squirmed in off Juanan`s chest.<br />
<br />
Soon after the goal, Odisha had a golden opportunity to go ahead but Jonathas Cristian fluffed his lines from close after Nandhakumar Sekar had whipped in a delectable cross which went past a diving Chinglensana Singh.<br />
<br />
Odisha turned on the heat with a couple of gilt-edged chances before Ogbeche made it 2-1 with a thumping header from Edu Garcia`s cross.<br />
<br />
At halftime, Hyderabad led 2-1 but in the second half, they swept Odisha off their feet with a scintillating performance. Edu Garcia started the onslaught with a buccaneering run, getting the better of a defender and firing home into the right bottom corner.<br />
<br />
Ogbeche was replaced by Javier Siverio in the 68th minute and the latter found the back of the net minutes after coming on, tucking in a Juanan ball into the net. Siverio won a penalty five minutes to full time after Gaurav Bora brought him down inside the box. Joao Victor stepped up and slotted it past the keeper from the spot.</p>


Hyderabad FC recorded an emphatic 6-1 win over Odisha FC in the Hero Indian Super League at the Athletic Stadium in Bambolim, Goa on Tuesday. Hyderabad FC striker Bartholomew Ogbeche scored in the 39th and 60th minute.

Hyderabad FC recorded an emphatic 6-1 win over Odisha FC in the Hero Indian Super League at the Athletic Stadium in Bambolim, Goa on Tuesday. Hyderabad FC striker Bartholomew Ogbeche scored in the 39th and 60th minute. Edu Garcia (54th), Javier Siverio (72nd), and Joao Victor (86 P) too got on the scoresheet for Hyderabad in a mind-blowing second-half display. For Odisha, Juanan scored an own goal in the 16th minute to make it 1-1, but after that, it was one-way traffic till the final whistle. The result means Hyderabad remain second in the points table with 15 points from eight games while Odisha are seventh in the table having 10 points from eight matches. Ogbeche is now the top scorer with eight goals to his name. The game got off to an eventful start as Hyderabad FC went ahead in the ninth minute. Edu Garcia swung in a delightful free-kick at the near post with Joao Victor flicking it on as the ball took a deflection off Hector Rodas and went in. ALSO READ | ISL 2021-22: Jamshedpur FC, Kerala Blasters share honours in 1-1 draw Hyderabad`s joy was short-lived as Odisha equalised. It was almost a repeat of Hyderabad`s opener as Javier Hernandez`s free-kick came off a host of bodies inside the box and squirmed in off Juanan`s chest. Soon after the goal, Odisha had a golden opportunity to go ahead but Jonathas Cristian fluffed his lines from close after Nandhakumar Sekar had whipped in a delectable cross which went past a diving Chinglensana Singh. Odisha turned on the heat with a couple of gilt-edged chances before Ogbeche made it 2-1 with a thumping header from Edu Garcia`s cross. At halftime, Hyderabad led 2-1 but in the second half, they swept Odisha off their feet with a scintillating performance. Edu Garcia started the onslaught with a buccaneering run, getting the better of a defender and firing home into the right bottom corner. Ogbeche was replaced by Javier Siverio in the 68th minute and the latter found the back of the net minutes after coming on, tucking in a Juanan ball into the net. Siverio won a penalty five minutes to full time after Gaurav Bora brought him down inside the box. Joao Victor stepped up and slotted it past the keeper from the spot.

ISL 2021-22: Hyderabad FC thrash Odisha FC 6-1 to occupy second spot

<p>Juan Ferrando got off to a winning start as ATK Mohun Bagan coach after the Kolkata side registered a thrilling 3-2 win against NorthEast United in the Indian Super League game at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium here on Tuesday.<br />
<br />
Ferrando jumped ship from FC Goa to Mohun Bagan after the Mariners let go of Antonio Lopez Habas in a dramatic turn of events over the last week.</p>

<p>During the match, Ferrando looked unfazed by the noise around him and went about his job but was rocked early on as VP Suhair gave NorhEast United the lead in the 2nd minute.</p>

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<br />
Hugo Boumous (53rd, 76th) scored a brace after Liston Colaco (45th) equalised for Bagan but Mashoor Shereef (87th) got the Highlanders in the game late on. In the end, the Kolkata side held firm and recorded their first win in four matches.</p>

<p>Mohun Bagan now have 11 points from seven games. NorthEast United remain in the ninth spot with seven points from eight matches.<br />
<br />
Stung by the early setback, Mohun Bagan upped the ante and should have pulled level but for Manvir Singh who fired over the bar from inside the box.</p>

<p>Roy Krishna had a couple of half-chances thereafter but good reflexes from Mirshad Michu in the NorthEast goal and Krishna`s inefficiency keep the ball in target kept the score to 1-0.<br />
<br />
For the Highlanders, seasoned defender Gurjinder Kumar got injured in the 26th minute and had to be replaced by Tondonba Singh. Colaco forced Michu into action with a fierce effort from an angle inside the box but the keeper did well to avert the danger.</p>

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<br />
At the other end, Amrinder Singh pulled off a great save to keep Rochharzela's long-range attempt at bay. Colaco then burst through into the penalty box but his take from an acute angle was well saved again by Michu.</p>

<p>The rebound was blocked brilliantly by Khassa Camara off Hugo Boumous. Just when it looked like NorthEast would go into the break with a 1-0 lead, Michu scuffed a goal kick and the ball fell to Krishna who swung in a delightful cross for Colaco to head into the far corner.<br />
<br />
After the halftime breather, Mohun Bagan decided to go up a gear and Boumous made it 2-1 soon after the restart to underline their intent.</p>

<p>NorthEast United failed to clear their lines for too long, leading to Subhasish Bose cutting the ball back from the left byline for Boumous to outfox the defender with a lovely piece of skill and tap home.</p>


Juan Ferrando got off to a winning start as ATK Mohun Bagan coach after the Kolkata side registered a thrilling 3-2 win against NorthEast United in the Indian Super League game at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium here on Tuesday.

Juan Ferrando got off to a winning start as ATK Mohun Bagan coach after the Kolkata side registered a thrilling 3-2 win against NorthEast United in the Indian Super League game at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium here on Tuesday. Ferrando jumped ship from FC Goa to Mohun Bagan after the Mariners let go of Antonio Lopez Habas in a dramatic turn of events over the last week. During the match, Ferrando looked unfazed by the noise around him and went about his job but was rocked early on as VP Suhair gave NorhEast United the lead in the 2nd minute. ALSO READ: Europa Conference League: Rennes awarded 3-0 win after UEFA fails to reschedule Spurs game Hugo Boumous (53rd, 76th) scored a brace after Liston Colaco (45th) equalised for Bagan but Mashoor Shereef (87th) got the Highlanders in the game late on. In the end, the Kolkata side held firm and recorded their first win in four matches. Mohun Bagan now have 11 points from seven games. NorthEast United remain in the ninth spot with seven points from eight matches. Stung by the early setback, Mohun Bagan upped the ante and should have pulled level but for Manvir Singh who fired over the bar from inside the box. Roy Krishna had a couple of half-chances thereafter but good reflexes from Mirshad Michu in the NorthEast goal and Krishna`s inefficiency keep the ball in target kept the score to 1-0. For the Highlanders, seasoned defender Gurjinder Kumar got injured in the 26th minute and had to be replaced by Tondonba Singh. Colaco forced Michu into action with a fierce effort from an angle inside the box but the keeper did well to avert the danger. ALSO READ: Premier League title race to continue despite increase in COVID-19 cases At the other end, Amrinder Singh pulled off a great save to keep Rochharzela's long-range attempt at bay. Colaco then burst through into the penalty box but his take from an acute angle was well saved again by Michu. The rebound was blocked brilliantly by Khassa Camara off Hugo Boumous. Just when it looked like NorthEast would go into the break with a 1-0 lead, Michu scuffed a goal kick and the ball fell to Krishna who swung in a delightful cross for Colaco to head into the far corner. After the halftime breather, Mohun Bagan decided to go up a gear and Boumous made it 2-1 soon after the restart to underline their intent. NorthEast United failed to clear their lines for too long, leading to Subhasish Bose cutting the ball back from the left byline for Boumous to outfox the defender with a lovely piece of skill and tap home.

ISL 2021-22: ATK Mohun Bagan trump NorthEast United, attain maiden win under new coach Juan Ferrando

<p>Reigning Indian Super League (ISL) champions Mumbai City on Friday announced that Sergio Lobera will be stepping down as their head coach after a successful one-year stint with the club.</p>

<p>The club's new head coach will be Des Buckingham, who joins from sister club and A-League champions Melbourne City. He will join the Islanders ahead of the 2021-22 season on a two-year contract, a media statement issued by the franchise stated.</p>

<p>Buckingham will arrive in the country shortly and will undergo the stipulated quarantine before joining the Mumbai City bubble in Goa to commence pre-season preparations ahead of the 2021-22 campaign.</p>

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<p>The statement said Lobera will continue his coaching journey with City Football Group (CFG), which owns Mumbai City, Melbourne City and top English Premier League side Manchester City among others.</p>

<p>Lobera joined the club in October 2020 and oversaw the club's most successful campaign ever, when the Islanders became the first team in ISL history to secure both the League Winners' Shield and the Trophy.</p>

<p>Englishman Des Buckingham was assistant coach to Patrick Kisnorbo, helping the club towards winning the A-League Premiership and Championship double, the statement added.</p>

<p>Prior to joining Melbourne City, Buckingham became the youngest coach in A-League history when he took charge of Wellington Phoenix at the age of 31, before a spell with Stoke City's U-23 team.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/huge-relief-for-cristiano-ronaldo-us-judge-recommends-dismissing-rape-case-against-man-utds-striker-419080">Huge relief for Cristiano Ronaldo! US Judge recommends dismissing rape case against Man Utd's striker</a></strong></p>

<p>Buckingham was also the head coach of New Zealand's U-20 and U-23 teams as well as the assistant coach to the All Whites' First Team for a brief period.</p>

<p>He guided the New Zealand U-20 to the Round of 16 in the 2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup before bowing out to Colombia in a penalty shootout.</p>

<p>Kandarp Chandra, CEO of Mumbai City FC, said, "We are delighted to welcome Des to Mumbai City. He is an exciting young coach who already has years of experience under his belt."</p>

<p>Sergio was a huge part of the most successful season in the club's history and has helped to give us great foundations to build on this year."</p>

<p>Buckingham, on his part said, "I've thoroughly enjoyed my time in Australia, but the opportunity to take control of the defending ISL champions was impossible to turn down."&nbsp;</p>


Reigning Indian Super League (ISL) champions Mumbai City on Friday announced that Sergio Lobera will be stepping down as their head coach after a successful one-year stint with the club.

Reigning Indian Super League (ISL) champions Mumbai City on Friday announced that Sergio Lobera will be stepping down as their head coach after a successful one-year stint with the club. The club's new head coach will be Des Buckingham, who joins from sister club and A-League champions Melbourne City. He will join the Islanders ahead of the 2021-22 season on a two-year contract, a media statement issued by the franchise stated. Buckingham will arrive in the country shortly and will undergo the stipulated quarantine before joining the Mumbai City bubble in Goa to commence pre-season preparations ahead of the 2021-22 campaign. ALSO READ | Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo: Best football transfers in the summer of 2021 The statement said Lobera will continue his coaching journey with City Football Group (CFG), which owns Mumbai City, Melbourne City and top English Premier League side Manchester City among others. Lobera joined the club in October 2020 and oversaw the club's most successful campaign ever, when the Islanders became the first team in ISL history to secure both the League Winners' Shield and the Trophy. Englishman Des Buckingham was assistant coach to Patrick Kisnorbo, helping the club towards winning the A-League Premiership and Championship double, the statement added. Prior to joining Melbourne City, Buckingham became the youngest coach in A-League history when he took charge of Wellington Phoenix at the age of 31, before a spell with Stoke City's U-23 team. ALSO READ: Huge relief for Cristiano Ronaldo! US Judge recommends dismissing rape case against Man Utd's striker Buckingham was also the head coach of New Zealand's U-20 and U-23 teams as well as the assistant coach to the All Whites' First Team for a brief period. He guided the New Zealand U-20 to the Round of 16 in the 2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup before bowing out to Colombia in a penalty shootout. Kandarp Chandra, CEO of Mumbai City FC, said, "We are delighted to welcome Des to Mumbai City. He is an exciting young coach who already has years of experience under his belt." Sergio was a huge part of the most successful season in the club's history and has helped to give us great foundations to build on this year." Buckingham, on his part said, "I've thoroughly enjoyed my time in Australia, but the opportunity to take control of the defending ISL champions was impossible to turn down."

Indian Super League: Sergio Lobera steps down as Mumbai City coach, Des Buckingham to take over

<p>The Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) on Monday announced fixtures for the first 11 rounds of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2021/22 season, which will begin on November 19.<br />
<br />
"Bringing back four months of power-packed live Indian football action to the millennials, the season once again returns to Goa`s three iconic stadiums this winter, featuring 115 games starting 19th November. The first instalment of the schedule announced on Monday runs until January 9, 2022," ISL said in a statement on its website.<br />
<br />
The league this season will introduce a late 9:30 pm kick-off for its Saturday double headers. The regular weekday schedule remains unchanged with matches kicking off at 7:30 pm.<br />
<br />
"Having missed a record title run by a whisker, last season`s finalists ATK Mohun Bagan will square off against Kerala Blasters FC on the opening game night to commence another intense campaign. SC East Bengal get to start their run into the competition on November 21 against Jamshedpur FC," said the statement.<br />
<br />
Title-holders Mumbai City FC will test a renewed FC Goa resilience as early as November 22, in one of the high-octane rivalries emerging in the league.<br />
<br />
The first instalment of India`s premier derby SC East Bengal vs ATK Mohun Bagan will be played out as early as in the second round of the season on November 27.<br />
<br />
The remainder of the ISL 2020/21 fixtures will be announced in December 2021.</p>


The Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) on Monday announced fixtures for the first 11 rounds of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2021/22 season, which will begin on November 19.

The Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) on Monday announced fixtures for the first 11 rounds of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2021/22 season, which will begin on November 19. "Bringing back four months of power-packed live Indian football action to the millennials, the season once again returns to Goa`s three iconic stadiums this winter, featuring 115 games starting 19th November. The first instalment of the schedule announced on Monday runs until January 9, 2022," ISL said in a statement on its website. The league this season will introduce a late 9:30 pm kick-off for its Saturday double headers. The regular weekday schedule remains unchanged with matches kicking off at 7:30 pm. "Having missed a record title run by a whisker, last season`s finalists ATK Mohun Bagan will square off against Kerala Blasters FC on the opening game night to commence another intense campaign. SC East Bengal get to start their run into the competition on November 21 against Jamshedpur FC," said the statement. Title-holders Mumbai City FC will test a renewed FC Goa resilience as early as November 22, in one of the high-octane rivalries emerging in the league. The first instalment of India`s premier derby SC East Bengal vs ATK Mohun Bagan will be played out as early as in the second round of the season on November 27. The remainder of the ISL 2020/21 fixtures will be announced in December 2021.

ISL 2021/22 season to begin from November 19

<p>Mumbai City FC on Thursday announced that Amey Ranawade has put pen to paper on a four-year contract extension with the club, committing his future with the Islanders until May 2025.</p>

<p>Born and raised in Mumbai, Amey graduated from the AIFF Elite Academy and went on to represent DSK Shivajians and Mohun Bagan in the I League along with two stints at FC Goa in the ISL. After most recently turning out for Bengaluru United in the I League 2nd Division, Amey signed for his hometown club Mumbai City FC ahead of the 2020-21 campaign.</p>

<p>The 23-year old local boy broke into Sergio Lobera’s side and went on to make 20 appearances in a historic season for the Islanders, winning the unique ‘double’ with the Islanders bagging both, the ISL League Winners’ Shield and the ISL Trophy in the Final.</p>

<p>The right-sided fullback proved to be an integral part of the Islanders’ setup under Sergio Lobera and having committed his long-term future to the club, Amey will be expected to play a key role for the reigning ISL champions in the 2021-22 season as Mumbai City FC embark on their maiden continental campaign in the 2022 AFC Champions League.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/euro-2020-englands-maguire-declares-himself-fit-for-scotland-game-392066" hreflang="en">Euro 2020: England's Maguire declares himself fit for Scotland game</a></strong></p>

<p>Amey Ranawade said: “Joining Mumbai City last year was one of the best decisions I’ve taken in my career. Over the last year, this club has not only given me the confidence to show what I can do on the pitch but has been like my family and like any family, they have stood by me in good times and bad. I am extremely proud and delighted that as a Mumbaikar, I will continue to be a part of my home club and this incredible family.”</p>

<p>“I also want to express my gratitude to Sergio Lobera and the entire staff at Mumbai City for believing in me. I am aware that the future will bring a lot of new challenges and I am ready to repay the faith everyone has put in me and give my best for my city, my club and our fans.”</p>

<p>Head Coach, Sergio Lobera said: “Amey possesses a great amount of quality and has the right temperament for a young professional. He is always eager to learn more every day and never backs away from a challenge. Amey is a true fighter and he has proven it time and again. We’re glad Amey has decided to commit his future to Mumbai City and that only reaffirms our faith in him and shows that he can go on and be an important part of his home city and this club for a long time to come.</p>


Mumbai City FC on Thursday announced that Amey Ranawade has put pen to paper on a four-year contract extension with the club, committing his future with the Islanders until May 2025.

Mumbai City FC on Thursday announced that Amey Ranawade has put pen to paper on a four-year contract extension with the club, committing his future with the Islanders until May 2025. Born and raised in Mumbai, Amey graduated from the AIFF Elite Academy and went on to represent DSK Shivajians and Mohun Bagan in the I League along with two stints at FC Goa in the ISL. After most recently turning out for Bengaluru United in the I League 2nd Division, Amey signed for his hometown club Mumbai City FC ahead of the 2020-21 campaign. The 23-year old local boy broke into Sergio Lobera’s side and went on to make 20 appearances in a historic season for the Islanders, winning the unique ‘double’ with the Islanders bagging both, the ISL League Winners’ Shield and the ISL Trophy in the Final. The right-sided fullback proved to be an integral part of the Islanders’ setup under Sergio Lobera and having committed his long-term future to the club, Amey will be expected to play a key role for the reigning ISL champions in the 2021-22 season as Mumbai City FC embark on their maiden continental campaign in the 2022 AFC Champions League. ALSO READ: Euro 2020: England's Maguire declares himself fit for Scotland game Amey Ranawade said: “Joining Mumbai City last year was one of the best decisions I’ve taken in my career. Over the last year, this club has not only given me the confidence to show what I can do on the pitch but has been like my family and like any family, they have stood by me in good times and bad. I am extremely proud and delighted that as a Mumbaikar, I will continue to be a part of my home club and this incredible family.” “I also want to express my gratitude to Sergio Lobera and the entire staff at Mumbai City for believing in me. I am aware that the future will bring a lot of new challenges and I am ready to repay the faith everyone has put in me and give my best for my city, my club and our fans.” Head Coach, Sergio Lobera said: “Amey possesses a great amount of quality and has the right temperament for a young professional. He is always eager to learn more every day and never backs away from a challenge. Amey is a true fighter and he has proven it time and again. We’re glad Amey has decided to commit his future to Mumbai City and that only reaffirms our faith in him and shows that he can go on and be an important part of his home city and this club for a long time to come.

Football: Amey Ranawade commits long-term future with ISL Champions Mumbai City FC

<p>Former Barcelona star and World Cup winner David Villa has been appointed as the global football advisor of the Indian Super League side Odisha FC.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Villa, who played in clubs like Barcelona, Atletico Madrid and New York City, is also Spain's all-time leading goal scorer.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tuchel-salutes-chelseas-desire-as-blues-reach-champions-league-final-383130" hreflang="en">Tuchel salutes Chelsea's desire as Blues reach Champions League final</a></p>

<p>The news was shared by the football club on social media and captioned: "World Cup winner and Spanish football legend @davidvilla has been brought in by Odisha FC to spearhead our global football operations."</p>

<p>"Former OFC Head Coach, Josep Gombau and Victor Onate are also a part of the club's Technical Football Committee along with David Villa."&nbsp;</p>

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<p>In an interview with Sky Sports, David Villa said that he will try and bring his experience to the role.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said: "Obviously, I didn't play in India but I played soccer for 20 years as a professional and before that in the academy. And in all of the projects that we [my team] are involved in, I try to give all of my experience that I have in soccer.</p>

<p>"I was very lucky to have played with great players, behind me and close to me [and I also played under some] big coaches, amazing coaches. I have played in the big tournaments of football, and I will try and help using all of that experience."</p>

<p>David Villa was even asked if he was tempted to don the jersey of Odisha FC and play for them. To which, he replied: "It was the first question of the people of Odisha!</p>

<p>"I took a decision a year ago to stop playing because I thought that was it was the [right] moment, not because I felt that I cannot play soccer anymore. I believe if I train I can play soccer for sure.</p>

<p>"But I thought that moment [when I decided to retire] was the right time. As you know, life is not just about soccer I am 39 and I played for 20 years as a soccer player.</p>

<p>"I think I can help more the sport of football and the world of football in my position right now than on the field. I think I took the right decision because I am very happy now. I miss football a little bit, but i think I can help in the position now more than the things I can do on the field."</p>


Former Barcelona star and World Cup winner David Villa has been appointed as the global football advisor of the Indian Super League side Odisha FC. Villa, who played in clubs like Barcelona, Atletico Madrid and New York City, is also Spain's all-time leading goal scorer.

Former Barcelona star and World Cup winner David Villa has been appointed as the global football advisor of the Indian Super League side Odisha FC. Villa, who played in clubs like Barcelona, Atletico Madrid and New York City, is also Spain's all-time leading goal scorer. ALSO READ: Tuchel salutes Chelsea's desire as Blues reach Champions League final The news was shared by the football club on social media and captioned: "World Cup winner and Spanish football legend @davidvilla has been brought in by Odisha FC to spearhead our global football operations." "Former OFC Head Coach, Josep Gombau and Victor Onate are also a part of the club's Technical Football Committee along with David Villa." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Odisha FC (@odishafcofficial) × In an interview with Sky Sports, David Villa said that he will try and bring his experience to the role. He said: "Obviously, I didn't play in India but I played soccer for 20 years as a professional and before that in the academy. And in all of the projects that we [my team] are involved in, I try to give all of my experience that I have in soccer. "I was very lucky to have played with great players, behind me and close to me [and I also played under some] big coaches, amazing coaches. I have played in the big tournaments of football, and I will try and help using all of that experience." David Villa was even asked if he was tempted to don the jersey of Odisha FC and play for them. To which, he replied: "It was the first question of the people of Odisha! "I took a decision a year ago to stop playing because I thought that was it was the [right] moment, not because I felt that I cannot play soccer anymore. I believe if I train I can play soccer for sure. "But I thought that moment [when I decided to retire] was the right time. As you know, life is not just about soccer I am 39 and I played for 20 years as a soccer player. "I think I can help more the sport of football and the world of football in my position right now than on the field. I think I took the right decision because I am very happy now. I miss football a little bit, but i think I can help in the position now more than the things I can do on the field."

ISL: David Villa joins Odisha FC as global football advisor

In an exclusive interview with WION, Mumbai City FC striker and former Premier League player, Adam le Fondre, talked about a range of things: from experience in the Indian Super League (ISL), mental wellbeing inside bio-secure bubble, comparison of ISL with other football leagues, the impact of City Football Group (CFG), Sergio Lobera and more.

Exclusive: Mumbai City FC's Adam le Fondre on ISL, impact of CFG on Indian football and more!

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{4953c1a4-dcfe-48ef-b56a-1414214ee73c}{32}" paraid="920959052" >Indian Super League (ISL) club Odisha FC on Tuesday sacked head coach Stuart Baxter following his insensitive rape analogy to&nbsp;criticize&nbsp;refereeing decision in the post-match interview following team's 1-0 defeat against Jamshedpur FC&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{4953c1a4-dcfe-48ef-b56a-1414214ee73c}{41}" paraid="1596175301" >While Odisha FC on Monday said that they are appalled at the remarks made by Baxter where he referred to rape while talking about referring decisions in the match against Jamshedpur FC, the club on Tuesday followed the development by sacking the Briton.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{39c9af5d-fed1-4710-b652-68dd550a1e15}{96}" paraid="57074261" >"Odisha FC has decided to terminate Head Coach, Stuart Baxter's contract with immediate effect. The interim coach for the remainder of the season will be announced soon,” the club said in a statement on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Odisha FC has decided to terminate Head Coach, Stuart Baxter's contract with immediate effect.<br />
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The interim coach for the remainder of the season will be announced soon.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OdishaFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OdishaFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/FcrMPCDn5h">pic.twitter.com/FcrMPCDn5h</a></p>
— Odisha FC (@OdishaFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/OdishaFC/status/1356505984693374980?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Baxter, the 67-year-old head coach from England, had questioned a decision made against his team in the post-match interview.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-bolster-defence-minamino-off-to-saints-as-window-shuts-360802" hreflang="en">Liverpool bolster defence, Minamino off to Saints as window shuts</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a40f32a1-2b5c-4a96-aaeb-8dd78bcfc9cc}{229}" paraid="37549091" ><em>“I have to say, you need decisions to go your way and I don’t know what we have to do get a penalty. One of my players would have to rape or get raped in the box to get a penalty,”</em> he was heard saying in the interview.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{bd944e14-f76b-46b3-b848-4f91da2db56b}{249}" paraid="367884007" >The club&nbsp;put forward an apology straight away as they said: “The Club is appalled at the comments made by Head Coach, Stuart Baxter during the post-match interview today. It is completely unacceptable whatever the context and does not reflect the values of the club. We, at Odisha FC, unreservedly apologize and the club management will handle this matter internally.”&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We, at Odisha FC, unreservedly apologize and the club management will handle this matter internally.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OdishaFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OdishaFC</a></p>
— Odisha FC (@OdishaFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/OdishaFC/status/1356303576814002181?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Talking about the match, Mohammad&nbsp;Mobashir&nbsp;Rahman's 41st-minute strike helped Jamshedpur FC record a 1-0 win over Odisha FC.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fan-free-tokyo-paralympics-can-still-have-major-impact-says-ipc-chief-360795" hreflang="en">Fan-free Tokyo Paralympics can still have major impact, says IPC chief</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{e48dda0a-fdf6-4214-b6a4-18ffa0ea1aa7}{161}" paraid="1853069475" >The controversial decision by the referee came late in the game when Odisha FC's Diego Mauricio was tripped in the penalty box by TP&nbsp;Rehenesh&nbsp;but the referee didn't give the penalty.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{85eeeacf-beeb-4546-a541-e448ff34ebbc}{75}" paraid="961077523" >Meanwhile, Odisha FC are lying bottom of the points table after 14 league matches, registering just a win and five draws.</p>


Indian Super League (ISL) club Odisha FC on Tuesday sacked head coach Stuart Baxter following his insensitive rape analogy to criticize refereeing decision in the post-match interview following team's 1-0 defeat against Jamshedpur FC While Odisha FC on Monday said that they are appalled at the remarks made by Baxter where he referred to rape while talking about referring decisions in the match against Jamshedpur FC, the club on Tuesday followed the development by sacking the Briton.

Indian Super League (ISL) club Odisha FC on Tuesday sacked head coach Stuart Baxter following his insensitive rape analogy to criticize refereeing decision in the post-match interview following team's 1-0 defeat against Jamshedpur FC While Odisha FC on Monday said that they are appalled at the remarks made by Baxter where he referred to rape while talking about referring decisions in the match against Jamshedpur FC, the club on Tuesday followed the development by sacking the Briton. "Odisha FC has decided to terminate Head Coach, Stuart Baxter's contract with immediate effect. The interim coach for the remainder of the season will be announced soon,” the club said in a statement on Tuesday. Odisha FC has decided to terminate Head Coach, Stuart Baxter's contract with immediate effect. The interim coach for the remainder of the season will be announced soon.#OdishaFC pic.twitter.com/FcrMPCDn5h — Odisha FC (@OdishaFC) February 2, 2021 × Baxter, the 67-year-old head coach from England, had questioned a decision made against his team in the post-match interview. ALSO READ: Liverpool bolster defence, Minamino off to Saints as window shuts “I have to say, you need decisions to go your way and I don’t know what we have to do get a penalty. One of my players would have to rape or get raped in the box to get a penalty,” he was heard saying in the interview. The club put forward an apology straight away as they said: “The Club is appalled at the comments made by Head Coach, Stuart Baxter during the post-match interview today. It is completely unacceptable whatever the context and does not reflect the values of the club. We, at Odisha FC, unreservedly apologize and the club management will handle this matter internally.” We, at Odisha FC, unreservedly apologize and the club management will handle this matter internally.#OdishaFC — Odisha FC (@OdishaFC) February 1, 2021 × Talking about the match, Mohammad Mobashir Rahman's 41st-minute strike helped Jamshedpur FC record a 1-0 win over Odisha FC. ALSO READ: Fan-free Tokyo Paralympics can still have major impact, says IPC chief The controversial decision by the referee came late in the game when Odisha FC's Diego Mauricio was tripped in the penalty box by TP Rehenesh but the referee didn't give the penalty. Meanwhile, Odisha FC are lying bottom of the points table after 14 league matches, registering just a win and five draws.

ISL club Odisha FC sack head coach Stuart Baxter after shocking rape analogy

<p>A win eluding them in previous three outings, both FC Goa and Kerala Blasters will be desperate to grab their first three points when they face off in an Indian Super League match here on Sunday.</p>

<p>Both sides have faced each other 12 times earlier with FC Goa having won on eight occasions while losing thrice. The Gaurs are also on a six-match unbeaten run against Kerala and will aim to continue that at the home venue Fatorda Stadium.</p>

<p>However, both sides find themselves in the bottom half of the table with just two points each. And there is a lot to worry about for both the coaches as they head into this contest.</p>

<p>While Kerala have dominated possession against all their opponents so far, they haven't been efficient in the final third of the pitch and have struggled to create chances.</p>

<p>Kerala are yet to score a goal from open play this season. Both their goals so far have come from set-pieces. At the back, Kibu Vicuna's side has appeared shaky. The two-time finalists have also been dealt a huge blow with captain Sergio Cidoncha likely to be out of action for a while.</p>

<p>"Every team is a different challenge. It's true we have more similarities with FC Goa because of a similar style of play," said Vicuna.</p>

<p>"It's going to be a battle to have more of the ball. But they are going to play their cards and so will we." FC Goa have managed the highest possession in the ISL so far. But despite that, Juan Ferrando's men have also dropped points from promising positions in their previous two encounters. The Gaurs have also shipped in four goals, all of which have come through set-pieces.</p>

<p>They will be hoping to tighten things up at the back. They are set to be without midfielder Alberto Noguera, who will miss the game through suspension. "For our supporters, I want them to enjoy the game because it is two teams trying to play football. I'm sure it's going to be a beautiful game," said Ferrando. It is expected to be an open game with both teams having a similar style of play.</p>


A win eluding them in previous three outings, both FC Goa and Kerala Blasters will be desperate to grab their first three points when they face off in an Indian Super League match here on Sunday.

A win eluding them in previous three outings, both FC Goa and Kerala Blasters will be desperate to grab their first three points when they face off in an Indian Super League match here on Sunday. Both sides have faced each other 12 times earlier with FC Goa having won on eight occasions while losing thrice. The Gaurs are also on a six-match unbeaten run against Kerala and will aim to continue that at the home venue Fatorda Stadium. However, both sides find themselves in the bottom half of the table with just two points each. And there is a lot to worry about for both the coaches as they head into this contest. While Kerala have dominated possession against all their opponents so far, they haven't been efficient in the final third of the pitch and have struggled to create chances. Kerala are yet to score a goal from open play this season. Both their goals so far have come from set-pieces. At the back, Kibu Vicuna's side has appeared shaky. The two-time finalists have also been dealt a huge blow with captain Sergio Cidoncha likely to be out of action for a while. "Every team is a different challenge. It's true we have more similarities with FC Goa because of a similar style of play," said Vicuna. "It's going to be a battle to have more of the ball. But they are going to play their cards and so will we." FC Goa have managed the highest possession in the ISL so far. But despite that, Juan Ferrando's men have also dropped points from promising positions in their previous two encounters. The Gaurs have also shipped in four goals, all of which have come through set-pieces. They will be hoping to tighten things up at the back. They are set to be without midfielder Alberto Noguera, who will miss the game through suspension. "For our supporters, I want them to enjoy the game because it is two teams trying to play football. I'm sure it's going to be a beautiful game," said Ferrando. It is expected to be an open game with both teams having a similar style of play.

FC Goa and Kerala Blasters clash to open their accounts in ISL this year

<p data-ogsb="white" data-ogsc="rgb(0, 0, 0)">Ahead of their first 'home' match of the Hero Indian Super League 2020/21 season, Mumbai City FC today paid a special tribute to the city of Mumbai and its fans by revealing a unique, artistically designed, site-specific mural and a large scale banner.</p>

<p data-ogsb="white" data-ogsc="rgb(0, 0, 0)">While President, Mumbai District Football Association, Aditya Thackeray took part in the reveal as he posed with a picture of the mural, Bollywood A-lister and Co-owner of Mumbai City FC,&nbsp;Ranbir Kapoor was seen posing with an image of the banner.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-ogsb="white" data-ogsc="rgb(0, 0, 0)"><img alt="MCFC" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e545f412-65e6-444a-8b0d-625f75c64cb0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/MCFC-3.JPG" /></p>

<p data-ogsb="white" data-ogsc="rgb(0, 0, 0)">With the global pandemic compelling the fans and supporters to cheer from home, Mumbai City FC has created the two pieces of artwork at two distinct places close to the heart of the Islanders. The murals have been&nbsp;conceptualized&nbsp;and&nbsp;realized&nbsp;by the young Mumbai artist Tanya Eden. The mural will be housed at the Andheri Sports Complex in Mumbai while the banner will be displayed at Goa for all the Club’s home games for the entirety of the current ISL season.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-ogsb="white" data-ogsc="rgb(0, 0, 0)"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maradonas-legacy-will-continue-and-so-seems-the-battle-for-his-inheritance-346553" hreflang="en">Maradona's legacy will continue and so seems the battle for his inheritance</a></strong></p>

<p data-ogsb="white" data-ogsc="rgb(0, 0, 0)">The mural has been artistically designed in order to paint a holistic picture of the great city that the Club represents — complete with symbols of the spirit of sportsmanship, dedication, and courage — values that its inhabitants have always stood by. It highlights how the people of the city are an integral part of the enigma called Mumbai along with the skyscrapers, the grandiose hoardings, and the beautiful marine fronts. In the course of the last few months, the city was under the scourge of the pandemic, but has endured thanks to the untiring and selfless contributions of its residents — the healthcare professionals, the security personnel, the essential workers, the dabbawalas among countless others. Mumbai City FC is proud to represent a city with such vivid talents and an indomitable spirit that rubs on the players as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-ogsb="white" data-ogsc="rgb(0, 0, 0)"><img alt="MCFC" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4105eb5c-fe12-4863-837b-8f962cfe316a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/MCFC-2.JPG" /></p>

<p data-ogsb="white" data-ogsc="rgb(0, 0, 0)">Additionally, the larger-than-life banner at Goa aims to serve as an inspiration for the players who will be missing the wave of energy and passion from the physical presence of their fans. However, it is the same passion which the players will be looking to replicate on the day Mumbai City FC plays its first 'home' game of this ISL season against East Bengal on Tuesday, 1st December 2020. The beachfront scenery of Goa embodies the feeling of fervor that the players will look up to while their loyal fans support from the comfort and safety of their homes. When the players turn out in Mumbai City FC colors, they will be wearing their heart on their sleeves, and in being socially distant, will look to enhance the “closer than ever” experience.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-ogsb="white" data-ogsc="rgb(0, 0, 0)"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messis-newells-old-boys-shirt-tribute-to-diego-maradona-wins-hearts-346521" hreflang="en">Lionel Messi's Newell's Old Boys shirt tribute to Diego Maradona wins hearts</a></strong></p>

<p data-ogsb="white" data-ogsc="rgb(0, 0, 0)">Speaking on the occasion,&nbsp;President, Mumbai District Football Association, Aditya Thackeray said, "Mumbai City FC is the heartbeat of our city, and is one of the biggest clubs in the country. All of us fans in Mumbai, including myself, will be fully behind the team and will be praying for an ISL title this season. That will surely bring the smile back on the faces of the Mumbaikars! I am really honoured to be presenting the very special mural, which represents the Herculean spirit of the city and its people. As always, I wish the Club the very best for this season, and always know that as fans, we are all rooting for you."&nbsp;</p>

<p data-ogsb="white" data-ogsc="rgb(0, 0, 0)"><img alt="MCFC" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58a2d77c-70d6-4c69-be73-cd2a0862eece" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/MCFC-1.JPG" /></p>

<p data-ogsb="white" data-ogsc="rgb(0, 0, 0)">Co-owner Ranbir Kapoor added, "Mumbai City FC is the pulse of this great and beautiful city of Mumbai. The vehement and enthusiastic support that we get every year from our fans is certainly something that creates a special feeling for our players, and with the pandemic having forced fans to watch and support only from their TV sets and social media, our ambition has been to bring everyone closer together. With these amazing illustrations, we wanted to show the players that everyone in the city is behind them, and to the fans, we wanted to say that they are "closer than ever" to&nbsp;the team with&nbsp;their bright energy&nbsp;whenever they play the most beautiful game."&nbsp;</p>


Ahead of their first 'home' match of the Hero Indian Super League 2020/21 season, Mumbai City FC today paid a special tribute to the city of Mumbai and its fans by revealing a unique, artistically designed, site-specific mural and a large scale banner.

Ahead of their first 'home' match of the Hero Indian Super League 2020/21 season, Mumbai City FC today paid a special tribute to the city of Mumbai and its fans by revealing a unique, artistically designed, site-specific mural and a large scale banner. While President, Mumbai District Football Association, Aditya Thackeray took part in the reveal as he posed with a picture of the mural, Bollywood A-lister and Co-owner of Mumbai City FC, Ranbir Kapoor was seen posing with an image of the banner. With the global pandemic compelling the fans and supporters to cheer from home, Mumbai City FC has created the two pieces of artwork at two distinct places close to the heart of the Islanders. The murals have been conceptualized and realized by the young Mumbai artist Tanya Eden. The mural will be housed at the Andheri Sports Complex in Mumbai while the banner will be displayed at Goa for all the Club’s home games for the entirety of the current ISL season. ALSO READ: Maradona's legacy will continue and so seems the battle for his inheritance The mural has been artistically designed in order to paint a holistic picture of the great city that the Club represents — complete with symbols of the spirit of sportsmanship, dedication, and courage — values that its inhabitants have always stood by. It highlights how the people of the city are an integral part of the enigma called Mumbai along with the skyscrapers, the grandiose hoardings, and the beautiful marine fronts. In the course of the last few months, the city was under the scourge of the pandemic, but has endured thanks to the untiring and selfless contributions of its residents — the healthcare professionals, the security personnel, the essential workers, the dabbawalas among countless others. Mumbai City FC is proud to represent a city with such vivid talents and an indomitable spirit that rubs on the players as well. Additionally, the larger-than-life banner at Goa aims to serve as an inspiration for the players who will be missing the wave of energy and passion from the physical presence of their fans. However, it is the same passion which the players will be looking to replicate on the day Mumbai City FC plays its first 'home' game of this ISL season against East Bengal on Tuesday, 1st December 2020. The beachfront scenery of Goa embodies the feeling of fervor that the players will look up to while their loyal fans support from the comfort and safety of their homes. When the players turn out in Mumbai City FC colors, they will be wearing their heart on their sleeves, and in being socially distant, will look to enhance the “closer than ever” experience. ALSO READ: Lionel Messi's Newell's Old Boys shirt tribute to Diego Maradona wins hearts Speaking on the occasion, President, Mumbai District Football Association, Aditya Thackeray said, "Mumbai City FC is the heartbeat of our city, and is one of the biggest clubs in the country. All of us fans in Mumbai, including myself, will be fully behind the team and will be praying for an ISL title this season. That will surely bring the smile back on the faces of the Mumbaikars! I am really honoured to be presenting the very special mural, which represents the Herculean spirit of the city and its people. As always, I wish the Club the very best for this season, and always know that as fans, we are all rooting for you." Co-owner Ranbir Kapoor added, "Mumbai City FC is the pulse of this great and beautiful city of Mumbai. The vehement and enthusiastic support that we get every year from our fans is certainly something that creates a special feeling for our players, and with the pandemic having forced fans to watch and support only from their TV sets and social media, our ambition has been to bring everyone closer together. With these amazing illustrations, we wanted to show the players that everyone in the city is behind them, and to the fans, we wanted to say that they are "closer than ever" to the team with their bright energy whenever they play the most beautiful game."

Mumbai City FC 'closer than ever' to Islanders' fans with specially curated mural and banner

<p>Their campaigns off to disappointing starts, both Odisha FC and Jamshedpur FC would be keen to register their first victory of the season when they take on each other in their second Indian Super League match here on Sunday.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-have-to-manage-this-carlo-ancelotti-after-losing-lucas-digne-due-to-injury-345948" hreflang="en">'We have to manage this': Carlo Ancelotti after losing Lucas Digne due to injury</a></p>

<p>While Odisha FC were beaten 0-1 by Hyderabad FC in their tournament opener on November 23 at Bambolim, Owern Coyle's Jamshedpur FC lost 1-2 against Chennayin FC a day later here. And come Sunday, both the sides would be desperate to log their first three points of the season.</p>

<p>Both Odisha FC and Jamshedpur FC had targeted fresh beginnings in the ISL season 7 with a new coaching team and new recruits. Having suffered defeats, both the teams will know the importance of stopping the rut before it turns into an uncontrollable downward spiral.</p>

<p>Odisha will be concerned that they are yet to solve their defensive issues that plagued them last season, after looking shaky at the back against Hyderabad. Odisha coach Stuart Baxter, though, said there were tactical problems all over the pitch that he had identified in the last game.</p>

<p>"Tactically, the balance was wrong. We ended up being very separated. We couldn't get the ball up to the forward players. We need to relax a little bit more on the ball," he said.</p>

<p>And the performances of Jamshedpur attackers Nerijus Valskis and Jackichand Singh in their last match mean that Odisha's defence will likely be on their toes on Sunday.</p>

<p>"We can defend with more personality and more control," Baxter said.</p>

<p>"I will be looking to improve the defending, but it will not be the first thing that you automatically go to after that sort of result." Coyle, on the other hand, lost more than three points in the previous game with defenders Peter Hartley and Narender Gahlot going off injured.</p>

<p>Both the players are doubtful for Sunday's game while David Grande will miss out. Coyle will also be concerned by the lack of cohesion that plagued his side often during their opening fixture.</p>

<p>But he believes Jamshedpur will get better as the tournament progresses. "Jamshedpur FC is a new team effectively. There has been a whole lot of changes from last year. But, there is no doubt that we will get better as we go on. The harder we work, the more we will improve," he said.</p>

<p>"We will look to start the game better, try and take control of it. We have to try and win those valuable three points. Because three points can push you five or six places up in the league."</p>


Their campaigns off to disappointing starts, both Odisha FC and Jamshedpur FC would be keen to register their first victory of the season when they take on each other in their second Indian Super League match here on Sunday.

Their campaigns off to disappointing starts, both Odisha FC and Jamshedpur FC would be keen to register their first victory of the season when they take on each other in their second Indian Super League match here on Sunday. Also read: 'We have to manage this': Carlo Ancelotti after losing Lucas Digne due to injury While Odisha FC were beaten 0-1 by Hyderabad FC in their tournament opener on November 23 at Bambolim, Owern Coyle's Jamshedpur FC lost 1-2 against Chennayin FC a day later here. And come Sunday, both the sides would be desperate to log their first three points of the season. Both Odisha FC and Jamshedpur FC had targeted fresh beginnings in the ISL season 7 with a new coaching team and new recruits. Having suffered defeats, both the teams will know the importance of stopping the rut before it turns into an uncontrollable downward spiral. Odisha will be concerned that they are yet to solve their defensive issues that plagued them last season, after looking shaky at the back against Hyderabad. Odisha coach Stuart Baxter, though, said there were tactical problems all over the pitch that he had identified in the last game. "Tactically, the balance was wrong. We ended up being very separated. We couldn't get the ball up to the forward players. We need to relax a little bit more on the ball," he said. And the performances of Jamshedpur attackers Nerijus Valskis and Jackichand Singh in their last match mean that Odisha's defence will likely be on their toes on Sunday. "We can defend with more personality and more control," Baxter said. "I will be looking to improve the defending, but it will not be the first thing that you automatically go to after that sort of result." Coyle, on the other hand, lost more than three points in the previous game with defenders Peter Hartley and Narender Gahlot going off injured. Both the players are doubtful for Sunday's game while David Grande will miss out. Coyle will also be concerned by the lack of cohesion that plagued his side often during their opening fixture. But he believes Jamshedpur will get better as the tournament progresses. "Jamshedpur FC is a new team effectively. There has been a whole lot of changes from last year. But, there is no doubt that we will get better as we go on. The harder we work, the more we will improve," he said. "We will look to start the game better, try and take control of it. We have to try and win those valuable three points. Because three points can push you five or six places up in the league."

ISL Preview: Odisha FC set to take on Jamshedpur FC

<p>The grand day when the Indian Super League (ISL) will taste the magic of its first-ever Kolkata Derby between ATK Mohun Bagan and East Bengal in the tournament at the Tilak Maidan in Goa on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>ATK Mohun Bagan are set to lock horns with arch-rivals SC East Bengal at the Tilak Maidan in Goa on Friday as Indian Super League (ISL) 2020-21 season hosts the first-ever Kolkata Derby in the tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While ATK Mohun Bagan are the merger between ATK and Mohun Bagan, East Bengal are funded by Shree Cements as two of the iconic Indian clubs embark on a new journey together.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ahead of the highly-anticipated Kolkata Derby in ISL, East Bengal head coach Robbie Fowler said, "It is a very tough game for our players. It will be a great start for the team and we will try to be ready for that challenge. There won’t be pressure on us because we are the new boys in the league and we’ll look to put all the pressure on ATK-Mohun Bagan."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atk-mohun-bagan-vs-sc-east-bengal-kolkata-derby-isl-set-to-witness-magic-of-100-year-old-rivalry-345825" hreflang="en">ATK Mohun Bagan vs SC East Bengal, Kolkata Derby: ISL set to witness magic of 100-year-old rivalry</a></strong></p>

<h2>All you need to know about ATK Mohun Bagan vs SC East Bengal in ISL 2020-21:</h2>

<h2>When and what time will ATK Mohun Bagan vs SC East Bengal match in ISL 2020-21 begin?</h2>

<p>The ATK Mohun Bagan vs SC East Bengal match in ISL 2020-21 will begin at 7:30 PM IST on Friday (November 27).</p>

<h2>Which channel will live telecast ATK Mohun Bagan vs SC East Bengal in ISL 2020-21?</h2>

<p>The ATK Mohun Bagan vs SC East Bengal match in ISL 2020-21 will be aired live on Star Sports 1 SD &amp; HD, Star Sports 2 SD &amp; HD (English); Star Sports Hindi 1 SD &amp; HD, and Star Sports 3.</p>

<h2>How to watch the live streaming of the ATK Mohun Bagan vs SC East Bengal in ISL 2020-21?</h2>

<p>Star Sports Network's platforms will live steam the ATK Mohun Bagan vs SC East Bengal match in ISL 2020-21. It can can be streamed live on Jio TV as well.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The grand day when the Indian Super League (ISL) will taste the magic of its first-ever Kolkata Derby between ATK Mohun Bagan and East Bengal in the tournament at the Tilak Maidan in Goa on Friday.

The grand day when the Indian Super League (ISL) will taste the magic of its first-ever Kolkata Derby between ATK Mohun Bagan and East Bengal in the tournament at the Tilak Maidan in Goa on Friday. ATK Mohun Bagan are set to lock horns with arch-rivals SC East Bengal at the Tilak Maidan in Goa on Friday as Indian Super League (ISL) 2020-21 season hosts the first-ever Kolkata Derby in the tournament. While ATK Mohun Bagan are the merger between ATK and Mohun Bagan, East Bengal are funded by Shree Cements as two of the iconic Indian clubs embark on a new journey together. Ahead of the highly-anticipated Kolkata Derby in ISL, East Bengal head coach Robbie Fowler said, "It is a very tough game for our players. It will be a great start for the team and we will try to be ready for that challenge. There won’t be pressure on us because we are the new boys in the league and we’ll look to put all the pressure on ATK-Mohun Bagan." ALSO READ: ATK Mohun Bagan vs SC East Bengal, Kolkata Derby: ISL set to witness magic of 100-year-old rivalry All you need to know about ATK Mohun Bagan vs SC East Bengal in ISL 2020-21: When and what time will ATK Mohun Bagan vs SC East Bengal match in ISL 2020-21 begin? The ATK Mohun Bagan vs SC East Bengal match in ISL 2020-21 will begin at 7:30 PM IST on Friday (November 27). Which channel will live telecast ATK Mohun Bagan vs SC East Bengal in ISL 2020-21? The ATK Mohun Bagan vs SC East Bengal match in ISL 2020-21 will be aired live on Star Sports 1 SD & HD, Star Sports 2 SD & HD (English); Star Sports Hindi 1 SD & HD, and Star Sports 3. How to watch the live streaming of the ATK Mohun Bagan vs SC East Bengal in ISL 2020-21? Star Sports Network's platforms will live steam the ATK Mohun Bagan vs SC East Bengal match in ISL 2020-21. It can can be streamed live on Jio TV as well.

ATK Mohun Bagan vs SC East Bengal, ISL live streaming: When and where to watch ATK-MB vs SCEB online?

<p>The grand day when the Indian Super League (ISL) will taste the magic of its first-ever Kolkata Derby between ATK Mohun Bagan and East Bengal in the tournament at the Tilak Maidan in Goa on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>ATK Mohun Bagan is a new entity formed by the merger of two clubs – ATK and Mohun Bagan whereas SC East Bengal is entering the competition after finding new owners in Shree Cements after years of dominance in the I-League.</p>

<p>The heated-rivalry between Mohun Bagan (now ATK Mohun Bagan) and East Bengal is over a century now. The two iconic clubs met for the first time on August 8, 1921. And the meeting between ATK Mohun Bagan and SC East Bengal is set to start new dawn for the monumental rivalry between the two Kolkata clubs.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/diego-maradona-unabashed-and-outspoken-most-famous-quotes-by-argentine-legend-345634" hreflang="en">Diego Maradona, unabashed and outspoken: Most famous quotes by Argentine legend</a></strong></p>

<h2>Kolkata Derby - a rivalry of ages</h2>

<p>The Kolkata Derby – between East Bengal and Mohun Bagan – is regarded as one of the most passionate and heated rivalries in world football and is counted among the most elite encounters in the world of football.</p>

<p>Bhaichung Bhutia remains the top-scorer in the history of Kolkata Derby with 19 goals under his belt while playing for both East Bengal and Mohun Bagan.</p>

<p>Carrying forward the rivalry into the competition, SC East Bengal and ATK Mohun Bagan will take on each other for the first in what will be the first-ever Kolkata Derby of ISL. It will also mark the opening match for SC East Bengal in ISL.</p>

<p>The rivalry between the two Kolkata clubs, which is century old, has produced record-breaking attendance. The record of Kolkata Derby audience stands at 1,31,000 in the 1997 Federation at the Salt Lake Stadium.</p>

<p>However, on Friday, the Kolkata Derby will be played behind closed doors due to COVID-19 protocols.</p>

<p>ATK Mohun Bagan’s ISL 2020-21 season started with a win over Kerala Blasters whereas East Bengal will start their journey on Friday with the Kolkata Derby.</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-cup-winner-napoli-legend-drug-addict-rise-and-fall-of-diego-maradona-345411">World Cup winner, Napoli legend, drug addict: Rise and fall of Diego Maradona</a></strong></p>

<h2>SC East Bengal vs ATK Mohun Bagan - Squads:</h2>

<h2>SC East Bengal</h2>

<p>Goalkeepers: Debjit Majumder, Sankar Roy, Mirshad Michu, Rafique Ali</p>

<p>Defenders: Samad Mallick, Abhishek Ambekar, Daniel Fox, Scott Neville, Narayan Das, Mohamad Irshad, Gurtej Singh, N Rohen Singh, Lalramchullova, Rana Gharami, Anil Chawan</p>

<p>Midfielders: Sehnaj Singh, Matti Steinmann, Jacques Maghoma, Eugeneson Lyngdoh, Wahengbam Luwang, Bikash Jairu, Yumnam Singh, Surchandra Singh, Loken Meitei, Mohammed Rafique, Aaron Amadi-Holloway, Anthony Pilkington, Milan Singh, Haobam Singh</p>

<p>Forwards: Balwant Singh, Jeje Lalpekhlua, CK Vineeth, Girik Khosla, Harmanpreet Singh</p>

<h2>ATK Mohun Bagan</h2>

<p>Goalkeepers: Arindam Bhattacharja, Dheeraj Singh, Avilash Paul, Arsh Shaikh, Aryan Niraj Lamba</p>

<p>Defenders: Tiri, Pritam Kotal, Prabir Das, Sandesh Jhingan, Subhasish Bose, Sumit Rathi</p>

<p>Midfielders: Pronay Halder, Bradden Inman, Javier Hernandez, Edu Garcia, Carl McHugh, Glan Martins, Jayesh Rane, Michael Soosairaj, Boris Singh, Regin Michael, Sahil Sheikh, N Engson Singh</p>

<p>Forwards: David Williams, Roy Krishna, Manvir Singh, Md. Fardin Ali Molla</p>

<h2>SC East Bengal vs ATK Mohun Bagan - Key Stats:</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Goals scored: East Bengal: 320 | Mohun Bagan: 313</li>
	<li>Last 5 meetings: Mohun Bagan 1 win | East Bengal 2 win | Draw 2</li>
	<li>Biggest win: East Bengal thrashing Mohun Bagan 5-0 in 1975 IFA Shield</li>
	<li>Head-to-head: East Bengal winning 129, Mohun Bagan 119 from 371 matches</li>
	<li>Overall Trophy Count: Mohun Bagan 253 | East Bengal 149</li>
</ul>


The grand day when the Indian Super League (ISL) will taste the magic of its first-ever Kolkata Derby between ATK Mohun Bagan and East Bengal in the tournament at the Tilak Maidan in Goa on Friday. ATK Mohun Bagan is a new entity formed by the merger of two clubs – ATK and Mohun Bagan whereas SC East Bengal is entering the competition after finding new owners in Shree Cements after years of dominance in the I-League. The heated-rivalry between Mohun Bagan (now ATK Mohun Bagan) and East Bengal is over a century now. The two iconic clubs met for the first time on August 8, 1921. And the meeting between ATK Mohun Bagan and SC East Bengal is set to start new dawn for the monumental rivalry between the two Kolkata clubs. ALSO READ: Diego Maradona, unabashed and outspoken: Most famous quotes by Argentine legend Kolkata Derby - a rivalry of ages The Kolkata Derby – between East Bengal and Mohun Bagan – is regarded as one of the most passionate and heated rivalries in world football and is counted among the most elite encounters in the world of football. Bhaichung Bhutia remains the top-scorer in the history of Kolkata Derby with 19 goals under his belt while playing for both East Bengal and Mohun Bagan. Carrying forward the rivalry into the competition, SC East Bengal and ATK Mohun Bagan will take on each other for the first in what will be the first-ever Kolkata Derby of ISL. It will also mark the opening match for SC East Bengal in ISL. The rivalry between the two Kolkata clubs, which is century old, has produced record-breaking attendance. The record of Kolkata Derby audience stands at 1,31,000 in the 1997 Federation at the Salt Lake Stadium. However, on Friday, the Kolkata Derby will be played behind closed doors due to COVID-19 protocols. ATK Mohun Bagan’s ISL 2020-21 season started with a win over Kerala Blasters whereas East Bengal will start their journey on Friday with the Kolkata Derby. IN PICS | World Cup winner, Napoli legend, drug addict: Rise and fall of Diego Maradona SC East Bengal vs ATK Mohun Bagan - Squads: SC East Bengal Goalkeepers: Debjit Majumder, Sankar Roy, Mirshad Michu, Rafique Ali Defenders: Samad Mallick, Abhishek Ambekar, Daniel Fox, Scott Neville, Narayan Das, Mohamad Irshad, Gurtej Singh, N Rohen Singh, Lalramchullova, Rana Gharami, Anil Chawan Midfielders: Sehnaj Singh, Matti Steinmann, Jacques Maghoma, Eugeneson Lyngdoh, Wahengbam Luwang, Bikash Jairu, Yumnam Singh, Surchandra Singh, Loken Meitei, Mohammed Rafique, Aaron Amadi-Holloway, Anthony Pilkington, Milan Singh, Haobam Singh Forwards: Balwant Singh, Jeje Lalpekhlua, CK Vineeth, Girik Khosla, Harmanpreet Singh ATK Mohun Bagan Goalkeepers: Arindam Bhattacharja, Dheeraj Singh, Avilash Paul, Arsh Shaikh, Aryan Niraj Lamba Defenders: Tiri, Pritam Kotal, Prabir Das, Sandesh Jhingan, Subhasish Bose, Sumit Rathi Midfielders: Pronay Halder, Bradden Inman, Javier Hernandez, Edu Garcia, Carl McHugh, Glan Martins, Jayesh Rane, Michael Soosairaj, Boris Singh, Regin Michael, Sahil Sheikh, N Engson Singh Forwards: David Williams, Roy Krishna, Manvir Singh, Md. Fardin Ali Molla SC East Bengal vs ATK Mohun Bagan - Key Stats: Goals scored: East Bengal: 320 | Mohun Bagan: 313 Last 5 meetings: Mohun Bagan 1 win | East Bengal 2 win | Draw 2 Biggest win: East Bengal thrashing Mohun Bagan 5-0 in 1975 IFA Shield Head-to-head: East Bengal winning 129, Mohun Bagan 119 from 371 matches Overall Trophy Count: Mohun Bagan 253 | East Bengal 149

ATK Mohun Bagan vs SC East Bengal, Kolkata Derby: ISL set to witness magic of 100-year-old rivalry

<p>ATK Mohun Bagan made a winning start in the seventh season of the Indian Super League (ISL) after defeating Kerala Blasters here on Friday.</p>

<p>Also, the commencement of the tournament marked the return of the first major live sporting action in India after the COVID-19 lockdown.</p>

<p>In the season-opener, ATK Mohun Bagan secured a 1-0 win over Kerala Blasters. During the first-half of the game, both the side gave each other a tough competition, restricting one another from taking a lead. After a goal-less first half, both sides started playing aggressively in the second half.</p>

<p>However, it was ATK Mohun Bagan that managed to take advantage. Roy Krishna netted the goal in the 67th minute, putting his side ahead of the Kerala Blasters.</p>

<p>The match did not witness more goals and ATK Mohun Bagan came victorious. For his match-winning performance, Krishna won the Hero of the Match award. After guiding his team to the victory, Krishna said he is happy to get on the scoresheet.</p>

<p>"I am happy to play for this team, especially for this club. It is a privilege. I will not take all the credit. I think we defended really well. I had a few chances in the first half, disappointed. But happy to get on the scoresheet," he said in a video posted by ATK Mohun Bagan on Twitter.&nbsp;</p>


ATK Mohun Bagan made a winning start in the seventh season of the Indian Super League (ISL) after defeating Kerala Blasters here on Friday. Also, the commencement of the tournament marked the return of the first major live sporting action in India after the COVID-19 lockdown.

ATK Mohun Bagan made a winning start in the seventh season of the Indian Super League (ISL) after defeating Kerala Blasters here on Friday. Also, the commencement of the tournament marked the return of the first major live sporting action in India after the COVID-19 lockdown. In the season-opener, ATK Mohun Bagan secured a 1-0 win over Kerala Blasters. During the first-half of the game, both the side gave each other a tough competition, restricting one another from taking a lead. After a goal-less first half, both sides started playing aggressively in the second half. However, it was ATK Mohun Bagan that managed to take advantage. Roy Krishna netted the goal in the 67th minute, putting his side ahead of the Kerala Blasters. The match did not witness more goals and ATK Mohun Bagan came victorious. For his match-winning performance, Krishna won the Hero of the Match award. After guiding his team to the victory, Krishna said he is happy to get on the scoresheet. "I am happy to play for this team, especially for this club. It is a privilege. I will not take all the credit. I think we defended really well. I had a few chances in the first half, disappointed. But happy to get on the scoresheet," he said in a video posted by ATK Mohun Bagan on Twitter.

ISL: ATK Mohun Bagan get off to winning start, defeat Kerala Blasters 1-0

<p>The&nbsp;overhaul of players and staff at&nbsp;Mumbai City FC during the offseason saw the club recruit a familiar face in Indian football, with Sergio Lobera taking over the reigns as the club’s new Head Coach. The Spaniard will be looking to add the elusive Hero Indian Super League trophy to the club's cabinet and has expressed his full faith in the current balance and set-up of the squad ahead of the much-anticipated 2020-21 edition of the league.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking ahead of Mumbai City’s season opener against NorthEast United which takes place on Saturday, Lobera addressed the media over a virtual press conference from the club’s bio-secure bubble in Goa on Tuesday afternoon. "I am very happy to be back here in India and very excited to be a part of the Mumbai City family. We have a great challenge ahead of us here, and with the current COVID-19 situation and living in the bio-bubble, I want such challenges because it makes us work closely and collectively in the best way,” he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We have started training well in these past few weeks, and I am delighted to be working with this group of players who have been great in training. I am excited to see what each one of our players can offer to us, and if we can get our ideas through to them, it’ll be a great season for us and for our fans,” added the 43-year-old.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/luis-suarez-to-miss-brazil-clash-after-positive-covid-test-343662" hreflang="en">Luis Suarez to miss Brazil clash after positive Covid test</a></strong></p>

<p>Having been a former assistant and a youth coach at FC Barcelona, Lobera is known to follow an attractive brand of football, and the Head Coach reckons he is aiming to bring the same brand to Mumbai City. “You know what my idea of playing is, and I followed the same at three seasons at FC Goa. It is important for me that spectators enjoy the football that we play – of course, winning the matches is important, but I also believe in having my team play an attacking brand of football where we are also able to create a balance. I want my team to be able to play beautiful, possession-based football, and also close down teams to quickly win back possession,” said the Spaniard.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When asked about how the City Football Group has helped him settle at the club, and what kind of support they provide, Lobera said he has been fortunate to have received help pertaining to a lot of areas. “The benefits of having the CFG advise us are plenty - the advice we get and the support is very important for me. I think there are a lot of people with great football knowledge at CFG, and as a coach, you can improve when you work with such people.&nbsp;I speak every day with different departments, who provided us with a lot of things including analysis, and the different learnings from their 10 teams around the world, especially lessons learnt under these unique circumstances,” expressed the Head Coach.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/englands-henderson-and-sterling-out-of-iceland-match-343659" hreflang="en">England's Henderson and Sterling out of Iceland match</a></strong></p>

<p>“We are working together with big ambitions and also keeping our long-term plans in mind. In my 25-year career, I have worked at some great clubs including Barcelona, but I can tell you that I have never worked before in this way and it is amazing to be working with Mumbai City and CFG,"&nbsp;added Lobera.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Asked to comment on the make-up of the squad, Lobera expressed satisfaction at being able to assemble a good squad ahead of the 2020/21 season. “I am very happy with the team I have. I think we have special players and I am trying to get the players to play in our style and hopefully, we can perform when the season gets underway.&nbsp;In my team, I obviously want players who want to win everything, but my focus is on playing beautiful football, with the final objective being - to win the matches,” said Lobera.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also commenting on having the option of five substitutes in a game, Lobera said he was pleased that he can influence more matches through the substitutions. “In my opinion, it is good to have five substitutes. It means when you can do more changes, you can influence and change the direction of the game. It is a good option."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lobera also added that his focus will also be on improving the Indian players. “We need to work in all the directions. We have some amazing players who have had great careers, but the most important is to improve the level of the Indian players. For me, as a coach, I need the help of foreign players to improve the Indian players. It’s impossible to win a trophy if the Indian players aren't at the level, and it is also impossible to win when your foreign players do not gel with the Indian players. So as the coach, I need my foreign players to play a big role on and off the pitch."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Adding that playing without their supporters is difficult, Lobera said, “We still feel they are here. Today, with social media and with regular interaction with our fans, we do feel closer to them and hopefully, we can make them happy with our performances."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lobera was also appreciative of ISL’s decision to have more teams this season. He said, “It’s good if the ISL improving a lot in the last seasons. It’s good playing new teams in the league. It means we need to play against 10 teams and with all the teams having good players."</p>

<p>Dismissing talks of his team being the favourites, Lobera said, “In my opinion, it is going to be the most difficult and competitive season till now. I want to respect all teams, and obviously, if I say we are favourites, maybe it’s not respecting the other teams and maybe it is not true. We have some great teams who have great players and have won the titles. Our dream is to work hard and to try to finish in the best position that is possible, and the best position is number one. We need to keep working and at the end of the season, we will see.”</p>

<p>Signing off, Lobera added that he reckons the season opener against NorthEast United “will be a difficult game”, but his team “needs to manage this situation and try to prepare in the best way possible and start strongly”.</p>


The overhaul of players and staff at Mumbai City FC during the offseason saw the club recruit a familiar face in Indian football, with Sergio Lobera taking over the reigns as the club’s new Head Coach.

The overhaul of players and staff at Mumbai City FC during the offseason saw the club recruit a familiar face in Indian football, with Sergio Lobera taking over the reigns as the club’s new Head Coach. The Spaniard will be looking to add the elusive Hero Indian Super League trophy to the club's cabinet and has expressed his full faith in the current balance and set-up of the squad ahead of the much-anticipated 2020-21 edition of the league. Speaking ahead of Mumbai City’s season opener against NorthEast United which takes place on Saturday, Lobera addressed the media over a virtual press conference from the club’s bio-secure bubble in Goa on Tuesday afternoon. "I am very happy to be back here in India and very excited to be a part of the Mumbai City family. We have a great challenge ahead of us here, and with the current COVID-19 situation and living in the bio-bubble, I want such challenges because it makes us work closely and collectively in the best way,” he said. “We have started training well in these past few weeks, and I am delighted to be working with this group of players who have been great in training. I am excited to see what each one of our players can offer to us, and if we can get our ideas through to them, it’ll be a great season for us and for our fans,” added the 43-year-old. ALSO READ: Luis Suarez to miss Brazil clash after positive Covid test Having been a former assistant and a youth coach at FC Barcelona, Lobera is known to follow an attractive brand of football, and the Head Coach reckons he is aiming to bring the same brand to Mumbai City. “You know what my idea of playing is, and I followed the same at three seasons at FC Goa. It is important for me that spectators enjoy the football that we play – of course, winning the matches is important, but I also believe in having my team play an attacking brand of football where we are also able to create a balance. I want my team to be able to play beautiful, possession-based football, and also close down teams to quickly win back possession,” said the Spaniard. When asked about how the City Football Group has helped him settle at the club, and what kind of support they provide, Lobera said he has been fortunate to have received help pertaining to a lot of areas. “The benefits of having the CFG advise us are plenty - the advice we get and the support is very important for me. I think there are a lot of people with great football knowledge at CFG, and as a coach, you can improve when you work with such people. I speak every day with different departments, who provided us with a lot of things including analysis, and the different learnings from their 10 teams around the world, especially lessons learnt under these unique circumstances,” expressed the Head Coach. ALSO READ: England's Henderson and Sterling out of Iceland match “We are working together with big ambitions and also keeping our long-term plans in mind. In my 25-year career, I have worked at some great clubs including Barcelona, but I can tell you that I have never worked before in this way and it is amazing to be working with Mumbai City and CFG," added Lobera. Asked to comment on the make-up of the squad, Lobera expressed satisfaction at being able to assemble a good squad ahead of the 2020/21 season. “I am very happy with the team I have. I think we have special players and I am trying to get the players to play in our style and hopefully, we can perform when the season gets underway. In my team, I obviously want players who want to win everything, but my focus is on playing beautiful football, with the final objective being - to win the matches,” said Lobera. Also commenting on having the option of five substitutes in a game, Lobera said he was pleased that he can influence more matches through the substitutions. “In my opinion, it is good to have five substitutes. It means when you can do more changes, you can influence and change the direction of the game. It is a good option." Lobera also added that his focus will also be on improving the Indian players. “We need to work in all the directions. We have some amazing players who have had great careers, but the most important is to improve the level of the Indian players. For me, as a coach, I need the help of foreign players to improve the Indian players. It’s impossible to win a trophy if the Indian players aren't at the level, and it is also impossible to win when your foreign players do not gel with the Indian players. So as the coach, I need my foreign players to play a big role on and off the pitch." Adding that playing without their supporters is difficult, Lobera said, “We still feel they are here. Today, with social media and with regular interaction with our fans, we do feel closer to them and hopefully, we can make them happy with our performances." Lobera was also appreciative of ISL’s decision to have more teams this season. He said, “It’s good if the ISL improving a lot in the last seasons. It’s good playing new teams in the league. It means we need to play against 10 teams and with all the teams having good players." Dismissing talks of his team being the favourites, Lobera said, “In my opinion, it is going to be the most difficult and competitive season till now. I want to respect all teams, and obviously, if I say we are favourites, maybe it’s not respecting the other teams and maybe it is not true. We have some great teams who have great players and have won the titles. Our dream is to work hard and to try to finish in the best position that is possible, and the best position is number one. We need to keep working and at the end of the season, we will see.” Signing off, Lobera added that he reckons the season opener against NorthEast United “will be a difficult game”, but his team “needs to manage this situation and try to prepare in the best way possible and start strongly”.

ISL: Sergio Lobera excited to take on new challenge at Mumbai City FC

<p>The semi-finalist of UEFA Champions League 2019-20 season Red Bull Leipzig are branching into India after announcing a three-year partnership with Indian Super League (ISL) club FC Goa. RB Leipzig have been in talks with FC Goa since 2018 and both the clubs have now struck a deal.</p>

<p>The three-year deal runs until June 2023 and will include football training camps for young players in India, which for the moment might happen online due to COVID-19. The partnership will also feature training of coaches and exchange of know-how regarding club structures.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A special message for a special partnership! 🤩<br />
<br />
Hear what <a href="https://twitter.com/c_nk97?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@c_nk97</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/lukaskl96?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@lukaskl96</a>, and <a href="https://twitter.com/NordiMukiele?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NordiMukiele</a> have to say on the Strategic Partnership between the Gaurs and <a href="https://twitter.com/RBLeipzig_EN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RBLeipzig_EN</a>. 💪🏻<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RiseAgain?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RiseAgain</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DreamsStartHere?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DreamsStartHere</a> <a href="https://t.co/cmNITSJ1mt">pic.twitter.com/cmNITSJ1mt</a></p>
— FC Goa (@FCGoaOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCGoaOfficial/status/1327159924170784769?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>FC Goa co-owner and president Akshay Tandon said Leipzig are the "perfect partner" given their experience of climbing the German football pyramid since their formation in 2009.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-to-sue-neymar-for-12-million-after-allegedly-overpaying-player-report-342950" hreflang="en">Barcelona to sue Neymar for $12 million after allegedly overpaying player: report</a></strong></p>

<p>"They have shown the world of football how to build from the ground up... and that’s something we resonate with," he added.<br />
Leipzig’s CEO Oliver Mintzlaff hinted that the three-year partnership could result in an Indian footballer coming to Germany soon.<br />
Even Indian cricketer Virat Kohli, also the co-owner of FC Goa, took to social media platform Twitter to welcome RB Leipzig as FC Goa’s strategic partner.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">.<a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> is as stoked as all of you about the club partnering with <a href="https://twitter.com/RBLeipzig_EN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RBLeipzig_EN</a>! 🤩<br />
<br />
Thank you, Captain, for the warm wishes. 🧡<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RiseAgain?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RiseAgain</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DreamsStartHere?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DreamsStartHere</a> <a href="https://t.co/OSwiMHZm4W">pic.twitter.com/OSwiMHZm4W</a></p>
— FC Goa (@FCGoaOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCGoaOfficial/status/1326887474279325696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>“I want to extend a warm welcoming hand to @FCGoaOfficial, who today have joined hands with @RBLeipzig_EN as the club's strategic partner. I have seen the visions of both the clubs and am confident that this partnership will be a long and fruitful one. #RiseAgain #DreamsStartHere,” Kohli tweeted.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-star-arrested-on-suspicion-of-rape-and-false-imprisonment-342892" hreflang="en">Premier League star arrested on suspicion of rape and false imprisonment</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I want to extend a warm welcoming hand to <a href="https://twitter.com/FCGoaOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FCGoaOfficial</a>, who today have joined hands with <a href="https://twitter.com/RBLeipzig_EN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RBLeipzig_EN</a> as the club's strategic partner. I have seen the visions of both the clubs and am confident that this partnership will be a long and fruitful one.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RiseAgain?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RiseAgain</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DreamsStartHere?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DreamsStartHere</a></p>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1327130375248879617?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>RB Leipzig stormed into Bundesliga by climbing from the fifth tier and finished behind Bayern Munich to qualify for the UEFA Champions League in 2017/18.</p>

<p>In 2019-20, they reached the knockout stages of UCL for the first-time while defeating the likes of Tottenham Hotspur and Atletico Madrid before losing out to Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-finals.</p>

<p>With international TV revenues declining, Mitnzlaff reckons this was the perfect opportunity to introduce German football to the Indian market.&nbsp;<br />
Goa's "innovative approach" makes it a "perfect fit" for the ambitious German club, he added.<br />
Meanwhile, FC Goa won the Indian Super Cup in 2019 and finished top of ISL table last season under Juan Ferrando.</p>


The semi-finalist of UEFA Champions League 2019-20 season Red Bull Leipzig are branching into India after announcing a three-year partnership with Indian Super League (ISL) club FC Goa.

The semi-finalist of UEFA Champions League 2019-20 season Red Bull Leipzig are branching into India after announcing a three-year partnership with Indian Super League (ISL) club FC Goa. RB Leipzig have been in talks with FC Goa since 2018 and both the clubs have now struck a deal. The three-year deal runs until June 2023 and will include football training camps for young players in India, which for the moment might happen online due to COVID-19. The partnership will also feature training of coaches and exchange of know-how regarding club structures. A special message for a special partnership! 🤩 Hear what @c_nk97, @lukaskl96, and @NordiMukiele have to say on the Strategic Partnership between the Gaurs and @RBLeipzig_EN. 💪🏻#RiseAgain #DreamsStartHere pic.twitter.com/cmNITSJ1mt — FC Goa (@FCGoaOfficial) November 13, 2020 × FC Goa co-owner and president Akshay Tandon said Leipzig are the "perfect partner" given their experience of climbing the German football pyramid since their formation in 2009. ALSO READ: Barcelona to sue Neymar for $12 million after allegedly overpaying player: report "They have shown the world of football how to build from the ground up... and that’s something we resonate with," he added. Leipzig’s CEO Oliver Mintzlaff hinted that the three-year partnership could result in an Indian footballer coming to Germany soon. Even Indian cricketer Virat Kohli, also the co-owner of FC Goa, took to social media platform Twitter to welcome RB Leipzig as FC Goa’s strategic partner. .@imVkohli is as stoked as all of you about the club partnering with @RBLeipzig_EN! 🤩 Thank you, Captain, for the warm wishes. 🧡#RiseAgain #DreamsStartHere pic.twitter.com/OSwiMHZm4W — FC Goa (@FCGoaOfficial) November 12, 2020 × “I want to extend a warm welcoming hand to @FCGoaOfficial, who today have joined hands with @RBLeipzig_EN as the club's strategic partner. I have seen the visions of both the clubs and am confident that this partnership will be a long and fruitful one. #RiseAgain #DreamsStartHere,” Kohli tweeted. ALSO READ: Premier League star arrested on suspicion of rape and false imprisonment I want to extend a warm welcoming hand to @FCGoaOfficial, who today have joined hands with @RBLeipzig_EN as the club's strategic partner. I have seen the visions of both the clubs and am confident that this partnership will be a long and fruitful one.#RiseAgain #DreamsStartHere — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) November 13, 2020 × RB Leipzig stormed into Bundesliga by climbing from the fifth tier and finished behind Bayern Munich to qualify for the UEFA Champions League in 2017/18. In 2019-20, they reached the knockout stages of UCL for the first-time while defeating the likes of Tottenham Hotspur and Atletico Madrid before losing out to Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-finals. With international TV revenues declining, Mitnzlaff reckons this was the perfect opportunity to introduce German football to the Indian market. Goa's "innovative approach" makes it a "perfect fit" for the ambitious German club, he added. Meanwhile, FC Goa won the Indian Super Cup in 2019 and finished top of ISL table last season under Juan Ferrando.

ISL side FC Goa sign strategic partnership deal with RB Leipzig

<p>Indian Super League (ISL) on Sunday announced East Bengal Football Club as the 11th team of India’s top-flight league following a successful bid by the Kolkata-based club. The Founder and Chairperson of Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) confirmed the expansion of ISL as East Bengal became the 11th club to join the ISL, which is set to be held in Goa, behind closed doors this season.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The other 10 teams in Indian Super League are: Mumbai City FC, Odisha FC, NorthEast United, Hyderabad FC, Bengaluru FC, Chennaiyin FC, FC Goa, Kerala Blasters, Jamshedpur FC and ATK Mohun Bagan. ATKMB joined ISL following the merger between ATK and Mohun Bagan.</p>

<p>ISL 2020-21 will be held behind closed doors in Goa within bio-secure environment and in front of empty stands with the three venues being: Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda, GMC Athletic Stadium in Bambolim and Tilak Maidan Stadium in Vasco.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">OFFICIAL 📝<br />
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Mrs. Nita Ambani, Founder &amp; Chairperson, FSDL, confirms the expansion of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HeroISL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HeroISL</a> for the 2020-21 season!<br />
<br />
Read 👇<a href="https://t.co/Lxyn16ByFf">https://t.co/Lxyn16ByFf</a></p>
— Indian Super League (@IndSuperLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndSuperLeague/status/1310094653539057664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>The entry of East Bengal in ISL confirms the continuation of 130-year-rivalry between Mohun Bagan (now ATK Mohun Bagan) as ‘Kolkata Derby’ will be played in ISL for the first-time ever.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Welcome East Bengal to the <a href="https://twitter.com/IndSuperLeague?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndSuperLeague</a>. The only legacy club in the league and the only club with 100 Year old history. ISL is Red and Gold now. Here is a video from us on this occasion. Take a look <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JoyEastBengal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JoyEastBengal</a> ❤💛 <a href="https://t.co/wFNOMZNsFt">pic.twitter.com/wFNOMZNsFt</a></p>
— EAST BENGAL the REAL POWER (EBRP) (@EBRPFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/EBRPFC/status/1310095938124275713?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Confirming East Bengal’s inclusion in ISL, Nita Ambani said: “It is such a happy and proud moment for ISL as we welcome East Bengal FC and their millions of fans into the League. The inclusion of both legacy clubs, i.e. East Bengal and Mohun Bagan (now ATK Mohun Bagan) opens limitless possibilities for Indian football, especially for talent development in the state.</p>

<p>“West Bengal has made an immense contribution to the growth of the beautiful game in India. ISL’s growing footprint in the state and across India, is yet another step towards our mission of building a competitive and robust football ecosystem in the country,” added Mrs. Ambani.</p>

<p>&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Indian Super League (ISL) on Sunday announced East Bengal Football Club as the 11th team of India’s top-flight league following a successful bid by the Kolkata-based club.

Indian Super League (ISL) on Sunday announced East Bengal Football Club as the 11th team of India’s top-flight league following a successful bid by the Kolkata-based club. The Founder and Chairperson of Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) confirmed the expansion of ISL as East Bengal became the 11th club to join the ISL, which is set to be held in Goa, behind closed doors this season. The other 10 teams in Indian Super League are: Mumbai City FC, Odisha FC, NorthEast United, Hyderabad FC, Bengaluru FC, Chennaiyin FC, FC Goa, Kerala Blasters, Jamshedpur FC and ATK Mohun Bagan. ATKMB joined ISL following the merger between ATK and Mohun Bagan. ISL 2020-21 will be held behind closed doors in Goa within bio-secure environment and in front of empty stands with the three venues being: Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda, GMC Athletic Stadium in Bambolim and Tilak Maidan Stadium in Vasco. OFFICIAL 📝 Mrs. Nita Ambani, Founder & Chairperson, FSDL, confirms the expansion of #HeroISL for the 2020-21 season! Read 👇https://t.co/Lxyn16ByFf — Indian Super League (@IndSuperLeague) September 27, 2020 × The entry of East Bengal in ISL confirms the continuation of 130-year-rivalry between Mohun Bagan (now ATK Mohun Bagan) as ‘Kolkata Derby’ will be played in ISL for the first-time ever. Welcome East Bengal to the @IndSuperLeague. The only legacy club in the league and the only club with 100 Year old history. ISL is Red and Gold now. Here is a video from us on this occasion. Take a look #JoyEastBengal ❤💛 pic.twitter.com/wFNOMZNsFt — EAST BENGAL the REAL POWER (EBRP) (@EBRPFC) September 27, 2020 × Confirming East Bengal’s inclusion in ISL, Nita Ambani said: “It is such a happy and proud moment for ISL as we welcome East Bengal FC and their millions of fans into the League. The inclusion of both legacy clubs, i.e. East Bengal and Mohun Bagan (now ATK Mohun Bagan) opens limitless possibilities for Indian football, especially for talent development in the state. “West Bengal has made an immense contribution to the growth of the beautiful game in India. ISL’s growing footprint in the state and across India, is yet another step towards our mission of building a competitive and robust football ecosystem in the country,” added Mrs. Ambani.

East Bengal enter Indian Super League

<p>India Super League's league winners&nbsp;FC Goa have registered their names in the history books of Indian football as they have become the first team of the country to qualify for AFC Champions League's group stages.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/isl-chennaiyin-fc-crush-atk-3-1-keeps-play-offs-hope-alive-281097" hreflang="en">ISL: Chennaiyin FC crush ATK 3-1, keeps play-offs hope alive</a></p>

<p>FC Goa achieved this feat after they thrashed Jamshedpur FC 5-0.&nbsp;</p>

<p>AFC Champions League is seen as the Asian champions league, where top clubs from different countries of Asia compete with each other to lift the prestigious cup.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">They who lift the shield, will make <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianFootball?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianFootball</a> history 🛡<br />
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Congratulations to <a href="https://twitter.com/FCGoaOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FCGoaOfficial</a> on being crowned the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HeroISLLeagueWinners?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HeroISLLeagueWinners</a> and getting direct entry to the <a href="https://twitter.com/TheAFCCL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheAFCCL</a> group stages! 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HeroISL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HeroISL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LetsFootball?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LetsFootball</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JFCFCG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JFCFCG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FCGoaInAsia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FCGoaInAsia</a> <a href="https://t.co/04MQ09ehzu">pic.twitter.com/04MQ09ehzu</a></p>
— Indian Super League (@IndSuperLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndSuperLeague/status/1230190762467266560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Indian Super League's Twitter handle was quick to congratulate the Goan team for this achievement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>FC Goa run-riot against Jamshedpur FC after Ferran Corominas, Hugo Boumous, Jackichand Singh and Mourtada Fall smashed goals for Goan side.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indian Super League was recently recognised as the top-tier league in the country by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) because of this, the top team in the league will go on to represent India in the AFC Champions League.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mohun Bagan and East Bengal have represented India in the Asian Club Championship, but this will be the first time that the club will be taking part in the group stages of the tournament.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


India Super League's league winners FC Goa have registered their names in the history books of Indian football as they have become the first team of the country to qualify for AFC Champions League's group stages.

India Super League's league winners FC Goa have registered their names in the history books of Indian football as they have become the first team of the country to qualify for AFC Champions League's group stages. Also read: ISL: Chennaiyin FC crush ATK 3-1, keeps play-offs hope alive FC Goa achieved this feat after they thrashed Jamshedpur FC 5-0. AFC Champions League is seen as the Asian champions league, where top clubs from different countries of Asia compete with each other to lift the prestigious cup. They who lift the shield, will make #IndianFootball history 🛡 Congratulations to @FCGoaOfficial on being crowned the #HeroISLLeagueWinners and getting direct entry to the @TheAFCCL group stages! 👏#HeroISL #LetsFootball #JFCFCG #FCGoaInAsia pic.twitter.com/04MQ09ehzu — Indian Super League (@IndSuperLeague) February 19, 2020 × Indian Super League's Twitter handle was quick to congratulate the Goan team for this achievement. FC Goa run-riot against Jamshedpur FC after Ferran Corominas, Hugo Boumous, Jackichand Singh and Mourtada Fall smashed goals for Goan side. Indian Super League was recently recognised as the top-tier league in the country by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) because of this, the top team in the league will go on to represent India in the AFC Champions League. Mohun Bagan and East Bengal have represented India in the Asian Club Championship, but this will be the first time that the club will be taking part in the group stages of the tournament.

ISL: Winners FC Goa becomes first Indian team to qualify for group stages in AFC Champions League

<p>Indian Super League's Chennaiyin FC registered a thumping win over ATK by 3-1 at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan here on Sunday. Chennai's hopes to qualifying for the Play-offs was boosted after Chennaiyin FC's Rafael Crivellaro, Andre Schembri and Nerijus Valskis' goals.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read-&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/isl-holders-bengaluru-fc-thrash-jamshedpur-2-0-273328">ISL: Holders Bengaluru FC thrash Jamshedpur 2-0</a></p>

<p>Three-points off the match, Chennai based football team has almost bridged the gap with Mumbai City FC. There are now point away from the fourth-placed Mumbai team. ATK currently are at the second spot in the ISL points table. FC Goa tops the table.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">.<a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiyinFC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiyinFC</a> put <a href="https://twitter.com/ATKFC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ATKFC</a> under the pump tonight 👊<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ATKCFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ATKCFC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HeroISL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HeroISL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LetsFootball?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LetsFootball</a> <a href="https://t.co/ryJXt4aFXf">pic.twitter.com/ryJXt4aFXf</a></p>
— Indian Super League (@IndSuperLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndSuperLeague/status/1229079993478594560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Rafael Crivellaro smashed the first goal in the 7th minute after an assist from Eli Sabia and Andre Schembri (39') gave them a 2-0 lead before Roy Krishna pulled one back with his 14th goal of the season (40'). A late goal from Nerijus Valskis (90+4') sealed full points for the visitors.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Design design ah problems will come and go, but scoring goals ain’t one of them. 😉<br />
<br />
Make that 1⃣3⃣ for the season! 💪🏼<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ATKCFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ATKCFC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AattamReloaded?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AattamReloaded</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OruKuttiKathai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OruKuttiKathai</a> <a href="https://t.co/dYXpQcV7Hq">pic.twitter.com/dYXpQcV7Hq</a></p>
— Chennaiyin FC 🏆🏆 (@ChennaiyinFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiyinFC/status/1229115102562926593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>ATK's Prabir Das hit some dangerous strikes on the visiting Chennaiyin side to equal the score and steal two points but Nerijus Valskis' late strike deflated all the hopes and no strike by Das could see the back of the net.</p>


Indian Super League's Chennaiyin FC registered a thumping win over ATK by 3-1 at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan here on Sunday. Chennai's hopes to qualifying for the Play-offs was boosted after Chennaiyin FC's Rafael Crivellaro, Andre Schembri and Nerijus Valskis' goals.

Indian Super League's Chennaiyin FC registered a thumping win over ATK by 3-1 at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan here on Sunday. Chennai's hopes to qualifying for the Play-offs was boosted after Chennaiyin FC's Rafael Crivellaro, Andre Schembri and Nerijus Valskis' goals. Also read- ISL: Holders Bengaluru FC thrash Jamshedpur 2-0 Three-points off the match, Chennai based football team has almost bridged the gap with Mumbai City FC. There are now point away from the fourth-placed Mumbai team. ATK currently are at the second spot in the ISL points table. FC Goa tops the table. .@ChennaiyinFC put @ATKFC under the pump tonight 👊#ATKCFC #HeroISL #LetsFootball pic.twitter.com/ryJXt4aFXf — Indian Super League (@IndSuperLeague) February 16, 2020 × Rafael Crivellaro smashed the first goal in the 7th minute after an assist from Eli Sabia and Andre Schembri (39') gave them a 2-0 lead before Roy Krishna pulled one back with his 14th goal of the season (40'). A late goal from Nerijus Valskis (90+4') sealed full points for the visitors. Design design ah problems will come and go, but scoring goals ain’t one of them. 😉 Make that 1⃣3⃣ for the season! 💪🏼#ATKCFC #AattamReloaded #OruKuttiKathai pic.twitter.com/dYXpQcV7Hq — Chennaiyin FC 🏆🏆 (@ChennaiyinFC) February 16, 2020 × ATK's Prabir Das hit some dangerous strikes on the visiting Chennaiyin side to equal the score and steal two points but Nerijus Valskis' late strike deflated all the hopes and no strike by Das could see the back of the net.

ISL: Chennaiyin FC crush ATK 3-1, keeps play-offs hope alive

<p>The initial phase of the&nbsp;Indian Super League (ISL) did not start off as expected for the defending champions <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sunil-chhetri-extends-bengaluru-fc-contract-154243">Bengaluru FC</a>, with the team winning only one match out of the first three and only one goal scored.</p>

<p>However, under the guidance of former Barcelona youngster and team head coach Carles Cuadrat, Bengaluru have reclaimed their position as one of the top favourites to win this year's edition of the super league as well.</p>

<p>“We had a slow start. There were a few issues we had to iron out, and we have rectified them now. I think you are going to see a strong finish from our side at the end of the season,” he told sources.</p>

<p>Over the games this season, Indian superstar and team captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hungry-sunil-chhetri-wants-india-in-asias-top-10-240766">Sunil Chhetri</a> and Australian midfielder Erik Paartalu have proclaimed for themselves a position of great eminence on the field, having become the principal playmakers for the team.</p>

<p>Paartalu opened the scoring in the game with a goal from a corner within six&nbsp;minutes since the start of the game.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-owners-to-buy-65-stake-in-indias-mumbai-city-fc-265162">Manchester City owners to buy 65% stake in India's Mumbai City FC</a></strong></p>

<p>“In my position, you never really get noticed unless you score a goal and make an assist. I think I have four assists and two goals and it’s probably better than any tally I’ve had so far. I want to continue to build on that. This year is a big year for me and the club. We want to push for the Champions League spot,” Paartalu claimed.</p>

<p>Erik was referring to Bengaluru FC attempting to grab a spot in the Asian Football Confederations' <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/revamped-fifa-club-world-cup-important-for-asia-gianni-infantino-208343">(AFC) Champions League</a>, in which domestic rivals Chennaiyin FC hold a spot.</p>

<p>Chhetri doubled the score against the 'Men of Steel' by shooting&nbsp;a goal into the net in the 63rd minute.</p>

<p>The team is clearly making progress, taking into consideration their improving match performances and style of playing.</p>


The initial phase of the Indian Super League (ISL) did not start off as expected for the defending champions Bengaluru FC, with the team winning only one match out of the first three and only one goal scored.

The initial phase of the Indian Super League (ISL) did not start off as expected for the defending champions Bengaluru FC, with the team winning only one match out of the first three and only one goal scored. However, under the guidance of former Barcelona youngster and team head coach Carles Cuadrat, Bengaluru have reclaimed their position as one of the top favourites to win this year's edition of the super league as well. “We had a slow start. There were a few issues we had to iron out, and we have rectified them now. I think you are going to see a strong finish from our side at the end of the season,” he told sources. Over the games this season, Indian superstar and team captain Sunil Chhetri and Australian midfielder Erik Paartalu have proclaimed for themselves a position of great eminence on the field, having become the principal playmakers for the team. Paartalu opened the scoring in the game with a goal from a corner within six minutes since the start of the game. Also Read: Manchester City owners to buy 65% stake in India's Mumbai City FC “In my position, you never really get noticed unless you score a goal and make an assist. I think I have four assists and two goals and it’s probably better than any tally I’ve had so far. I want to continue to build on that. This year is a big year for me and the club. We want to push for the Champions League spot,” Paartalu claimed. Erik was referring to Bengaluru FC attempting to grab a spot in the Asian Football Confederations' (AFC) Champions League, in which domestic rivals Chennaiyin FC hold a spot. Chhetri doubled the score against the 'Men of Steel' by shooting a goal into the net in the 63rd minute. The team is clearly making progress, taking into consideration their improving match performances and style of playing.

ISL: Holders Bengaluru FC thrash Jamshedpur 2-0

<p>World governing body FIFA has sought an update from the All India Football Federation (AIFF) on the domestic turmoil surrounding the merger of two leagues into one top-tier national championship.</p>

<p>The AIFF's plan to merge the franchise-based Indian Super League (ISL) with the I-League has faced major obstacles and there is little clarity on the roadmap, leaving stakeholders and fans confused about the future of club football.</p>

<p>Earlier this month, the AIFF openly backed the ISL as the country's elite competition for the first time, saying it would recommend the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) awarded its champions a slot in the continent's elite club competition.</p>

<p>In response six I-League clubs wrote to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and FIFA requesting intervention as well as an inquiry into the running of the AIFF.</p>

<p>Following extensive consultation in 2018, a combined FIFA-AFC delegation made a series of recommendations to the AIFF on the matter.</p>

<p>"Many of the elements under discussion are related to suggestions made in a joint FIFA and AFC report," FIFA said in a letter addressed to the AIFF requesting an update on the progress of the plans.</p>

<p>"The report's objectives are among others, to provide the AIFF with external expertise and to support your federation and its stakeholders in establishing and implementing a widely-supported, robust medium to long-term strategy.</p>

<p>"As you know, the report is therefore a comprehensive review and professional proposal which also contains a series of clear and concrete recommendations for your further consideration."</p>

<p>The ISL, promoted by billionaire Mukesh Ambani's Reliance Industries and Rupert Murdoch's Star India TV, has grown in popularity since its 2014 launch, whereas interest in the I-League has stagnated.</p>

<p>The I-League was formed in 2007 as a rebrand of the National Football League, which was India's first professional league when it launched in 1996.</p>

<p>The AIFF said earlier this month it was backing the ISL because most of the national team players were playing in the league and it was attracting more fans in stadiums and on TV.</p>

<p>Without making a reference to the FIFA letter, the Indian FA said its president Praful Patel "has broadly taken the same line" as suggested in the FIFA and AFC report in his communications with the I-League clubs.</p>

<p>"Needless to mention that this is precisely the reason that a two-three-year window is required to resolve all contentious issues amicably with all stakeholders," the AIFF said.</p>

<p>"The question of ... Indian Super League not remaining a closed league permanently has been clarified amply enough by the AIFF President, and promotion and relegation eventually would lead to the development of club football in India.</p>

<p>"The AIFF is committed to engaging with AFC and FIFA as well as all other stakeholders for finding an early resolution to these issues."</p>


World governing body FIFA has sought an update from the All India Football Federation (AIFF) on the domestic turmoil surrounding the merger of two leagues into one top-tier national championship.

World governing body FIFA has sought an update from the All India Football Federation (AIFF) on the domestic turmoil surrounding the merger of two leagues into one top-tier national championship. The AIFF's plan to merge the franchise-based Indian Super League (ISL) with the I-League has faced major obstacles and there is little clarity on the roadmap, leaving stakeholders and fans confused about the future of club football. Earlier this month, the AIFF openly backed the ISL as the country's elite competition for the first time, saying it would recommend the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) awarded its champions a slot in the continent's elite club competition. In response six I-League clubs wrote to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and FIFA requesting intervention as well as an inquiry into the running of the AIFF. Following extensive consultation in 2018, a combined FIFA-AFC delegation made a series of recommendations to the AIFF on the matter. "Many of the elements under discussion are related to suggestions made in a joint FIFA and AFC report," FIFA said in a letter addressed to the AIFF requesting an update on the progress of the plans. "The report's objectives are among others, to provide the AIFF with external expertise and to support your federation and its stakeholders in establishing and implementing a widely-supported, robust medium to long-term strategy. "As you know, the report is therefore a comprehensive review and professional proposal which also contains a series of clear and concrete recommendations for your further consideration." The ISL, promoted by billionaire Mukesh Ambani's Reliance Industries and Rupert Murdoch's Star India TV, has grown in popularity since its 2014 launch, whereas interest in the I-League has stagnated. The I-League was formed in 2007 as a rebrand of the National Football League, which was India's first professional league when it launched in 1996. The AIFF said earlier this month it was backing the ISL because most of the national team players were playing in the league and it was attracting more fans in stadiums and on TV. Without making a reference to the FIFA letter, the Indian FA said its president Praful Patel "has broadly taken the same line" as suggested in the FIFA and AFC report in his communications with the I-League clubs. "Needless to mention that this is precisely the reason that a two-three-year window is required to resolve all contentious issues amicably with all stakeholders," the AIFF said. "The question of ... Indian Super League not remaining a closed league permanently has been clarified amply enough by the AIFF President, and promotion and relegation eventually would lead to the development of club football in India. "The AIFF is committed to engaging with AFC and FIFA as well as all other stakeholders for finding an early resolution to these issues."

FIFA seeks update from Indian FA as club turmoil rumbles on

<p>Former champions ATK suffered a 0-2 defeat to two-time runners-up Kerala Blasters in the opening match of the fifth Indian Super League (ISL) at the Saltlake Stadium here Saturday.</p>

<p>Matej Poplatnik and Slavisia Stojanovic scored in the second half as Kerala scored only their second win over the Kolkata franchise, and first since the 2014 edition.</p>

<p>After enduring a nightmarish ninth-place finish in the last season, ATK might have overhauled the squad roping in a trusted coach in Steve Coppell but their fate remained unchanged as they struggled to keep pace with the Kerala Blasters.</p>

<p>The David James-coached outfit looked in their elements right from the start with Slovenian Poplatnik continuously raiding ATK's box before he broke the deadlock in the 77th minute.</p>

<p>However, it was Stojanovic who took the first shot at the goal with his left-footer but it deflected off Gerson Vieira.</p>

<p>An alert Poplatnik got behind the defence and slotted the ball home with a perfect finish to bring up the first goal of the ISL opening night.</p>

<p>There was more misery in store for ATK as the Serbian Stojanovic doubled the lead from a long ball from Halicharan Narzary.</p>

<p>Kerala No 8 took the ball in his stride with a touch to his left, cut it back in on his right and curled it beautifully in the top right corner to seal their first win over ATK since 2014.</p>

<p>Kerala Blasters had last beaten ATK, then Atletico de Kolkata, in the inaugural season of ISL on November 21.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">.<a href="https://twitter.com/KeralaBlasters?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KeralaBlasters</a>' Matej Poplatnik looked dangerous throughout against <a href="https://twitter.com/ATKFC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ATKFC</a> and even scored the opening goal of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HeroISL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HeroISL</a> 2018-19! He is the Hero of the Match!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LetsFootball?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LetsFootball</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FanBannaPadega?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FanBannaPadega</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KOLKER?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KOLKER</a> <a href="https://t.co/c7SYzM0AUc">pic.twitter.com/c7SYzM0AUc</a></p>
— Indian Super League (@IndSuperLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndSuperLeague/status/1046247467728207873?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>ATK will play North East United FC at home in their second match of the season here on October 4.</p>

<p>Playing the first match of the season, both the teams put up an unsettled look as a goalless stalemate prevailed in the first 45 minutes.</p>

<p>But there was no dearth of action with the visitors dominating the proceedings while ATK's defence in Aiborlang Khongjee, Gerson Vieira, John Johnson, Lalhmangaisanga Ralte looked a bit shaky.</p>

<p>ATK, however, got the best opportunity in the first half, even as Kerala's Slovenian forward Poplatnik remained a constant threat in the home team's box right from the start as he shot wide from a free kick in the fourth minute.</p>

<p>It was Jayesh Rane who found himself in the dock as the ATK winger failed to convert an open header from El Maimouni's 39th-minute corner.</p>

<p>Minutes after he received the first yellow card of this season, Noussair swung in the corner from the left with Rane at the far post but he missed to direct it in the right side of the post in a heartbreak for the Coppell's team.</p>

<p>Having handed debut in the very first match of the season, India's U-17 World Cup hero Dheeraj Singh showed early signs that he's here to stay when he made a stunning save to deny ATK captain Manuel Lanzarote in the 15th minute.</p>

<p>Earlier Indian athletics golden girl Hima Das presented the ceremonial match ball to kick off the fifth season of the top-tier league.</p>


Former champions ATK suffered a 0-2 defeat to two-time runners-up Kerala Blasters in the opening match of the fifth Indian Super League (ISL) at the Saltlake Stadium here Saturday.

Former champions ATK suffered a 0-2 defeat to two-time runners-up Kerala Blasters in the opening match of the fifth Indian Super League (ISL) at the Saltlake Stadium here Saturday. Matej Poplatnik and Slavisia Stojanovic scored in the second half as Kerala scored only their second win over the Kolkata franchise, and first since the 2014 edition. After enduring a nightmarish ninth-place finish in the last season, ATK might have overhauled the squad roping in a trusted coach in Steve Coppell but their fate remained unchanged as they struggled to keep pace with the Kerala Blasters. The David James-coached outfit looked in their elements right from the start with Slovenian Poplatnik continuously raiding ATK's box before he broke the deadlock in the 77th minute. However, it was Stojanovic who took the first shot at the goal with his left-footer but it deflected off Gerson Vieira. An alert Poplatnik got behind the defence and slotted the ball home with a perfect finish to bring up the first goal of the ISL opening night. There was more misery in store for ATK as the Serbian Stojanovic doubled the lead from a long ball from Halicharan Narzary. Kerala No 8 took the ball in his stride with a touch to his left, cut it back in on his right and curled it beautifully in the top right corner to seal their first win over ATK since 2014. Kerala Blasters had last beaten ATK, then Atletico de Kolkata, in the inaugural season of ISL on November 21. .@KeralaBlasters' Matej Poplatnik looked dangerous throughout against @ATKFC and even scored the opening goal of #HeroISL 2018-19! He is the Hero of the Match!#LetsFootball #FanBannaPadega #KOLKER pic.twitter.com/c7SYzM0AUc — Indian Super League (@IndSuperLeague) September 30, 2018 × ATK will play North East United FC at home in their second match of the season here on October 4. Playing the first match of the season, both the teams put up an unsettled look as a goalless stalemate prevailed in the first 45 minutes. But there was no dearth of action with the visitors dominating the proceedings while ATK's defence in Aiborlang Khongjee, Gerson Vieira, John Johnson, Lalhmangaisanga Ralte looked a bit shaky. ATK, however, got the best opportunity in the first half, even as Kerala's Slovenian forward Poplatnik remained a constant threat in the home team's box right from the start as he shot wide from a free kick in the fourth minute. It was Jayesh Rane who found himself in the dock as the ATK winger failed to convert an open header from El Maimouni's 39th-minute corner. Minutes after he received the first yellow card of this season, Noussair swung in the corner from the left with Rane at the far post but he missed to direct it in the right side of the post in a heartbreak for the Coppell's team. Having handed debut in the very first match of the season, India's U-17 World Cup hero Dheeraj Singh showed early signs that he's here to stay when he made a stunning save to deny ATK captain Manuel Lanzarote in the 15th minute. Earlier Indian athletics golden girl Hima Das presented the ceremonial match ball to kick off the fifth season of the top-tier league.

ATK suffer 0-2 loss against Kerala Blasters in ISL-V opener

<p>Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar today met Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to invite him for the Indian Super League (ISL) football tournament. Tendulkar co-owns Kerala Blasters, a franchise in ISL.</p>

<p>&quot;I was here to brief him about the progress of Kerala Blasters and invited him for its first match in the ISL on 17th,&quot; Tendulkar said after the meeting. Tendulkar&#39;s wife Anjali accompanied him for the meeting.</p>

<p>Vijayan posted the photo of the meeting on his official&nbsp;Facebook page.</p>

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<p>ISL, the franchise-based league, kicks off on November 17. While the final of the fourth edition of ISL will be held in Kolkata, the inaugural game has been shifted to Kochi.</p>

<p>The decision to host the final in Kolkata has been taken after its grand success in hosting the FIFA U-17 World Cup final recently.</p>


Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar today met Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to invite him for the Indian Super League (ISL) football tournament.

Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar today met Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to invite him for the Indian Super League (ISL) football tournament. Tendulkar co-owns Kerala Blasters, a franchise in ISL. "I was here to brief him about the progress of Kerala Blasters and invited him for its first match in the ISL on 17th," Tendulkar said after the meeting. Tendulkar's wife Anjali accompanied him for the meeting. Vijayan posted the photo of the meeting on his official Facebook page. × ISL, the franchise-based league, kicks off on November 17. While the final of the fourth edition of ISL will be held in Kolkata, the inaugural game has been shifted to Kochi. The decision to host the final in Kolkata has been taken after its grand success in hosting the FIFA U-17 World Cup final recently.

Sachin Tendulkar meets Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, invites him for ISL match

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