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INDIAN FOOTBALL NEWS 2018 (AUGUST-2018)

U-19 NATIONAL TEAM TO PLAY YOUTH TEAMS OF WORLD CHAMPIONS FRANCE AND RUNNERS-UP CROATIA

AIFF PRESS RELEASE - 31.08.2018 : The India U-19 National Team is set to participate in a four-nation International Tournament which includes U-19 National Teams of World Champions France, World Cup runners-up Croatia and Slovenia. The tournament will be held between September 4 - 9 and is being organized by the Croatian Football Federation in cooperation with Slovenian Football Federation.
U-19 NATIONAL TEAM TO PLAY YOUTH TEAMS OF WORLD CHAMPIONS FRANCE AND RUNNERS-UP CROATIA

Both the exposure tours have been organised by the All India Football Federation in coordination with SAI to provide the best possible preparation to the U-19 boys for the forthcoming Hero I-League season and also with an eye on U-19 AFC Championship qualification next year. All India Football Federation General Secretary Mr. Kushal Das stated: “It gives me immense satisfaction that our age-group teams are now regularly facing National teams of Asian champions and even World Champions.”

“I am happy that SAI is with us in pursuing a vision and our youth players and coaches look forward to these challenges with positivity. I am convinced Indian Football is moving in right direction and all stakeholders will be encouraged with our efforts,” he added. National Team Director Abhishek Yadav mentioned, “there will be a few tough games ahead.” "It is our aim to give regular opportunities to our teams to compete against top footballing nations of the World across age-groups and gender,” he informed.

“It is under this agenda that for the Indian Arrows, we got opportunities to face 2017 FIFA U20 World Cup runners-up Venezuela and 6-times U-20 World Champions Argentina (in August 2018),” he maintained. “Concurrently, we were working on opportunities to face the squads of Slovenia, Croatia, France and Serbia to take forward Arrows’ pre-season,” he added.

“We all know that senior men’s teams of France and Croatia recently played in the Russia 2018 WC and I am sure everyone will recall who the finalists were. It is extremely important for our players to get the experience of such top quality matches and they are looking forward to these matches with a lot of enthusiasm.”

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51 men List of Mohun Bagan for proposed Barcelona Legends Match

30.08.2018v : Today at 5.30 pm in a meet the press Mohun Bagan released a 51 men squad to proposed an exhibition match between Mohun Bagan Legends and Barcelona Legends at Salt Lake stadium on 28th SEPT. The Squad included ex-and current players mix Along with India captain and Ex-Mohun Bagan striker Sunil Chhetri and current Goalkeeper Shilton Paul. The 51 TEAM SQUAD ARE :

Shilton Pal, Sangram Mukherjee, Hemant Dora, Arpan Dey, Rajat Ghoshdastidar, Sandip Nandy, Amar Ganguly, Prasanta Dora, Kalyan Choubey, Jose Barreto, Beto, sunil Chhetri, Mehtab Hossain, Renedy Singh, Dipendu Biswas, Dulal Biswas, Basudeb Mondol, Baichung Bhutia, IM Vijayan, Amit Das, Sankarlal Chakraborty, Sanjay Majhi, Lolendra Singh, Surkumar Singh, Dharamjit Singh, Monitombi singh, James Singh, Gunbir Singh, Tomba Singh, Denson Debdas, Manjit singh, Andrew Lewis, Isfaq Ahmed, R.C.Prakash, Deepak Mondol, Mickey Fernandez, Jo Paul Anchri, Raman Vijayan, Sanjeev Maria, Rahim Mabi, Amitava Chanda, Goutam Ghosh, Meherajuddin Wadoo, Abdul Khaeque, Abhay Kumar, Tushar Rakshit, Aloke Das, Ashim Biswas, Prasanta Chakraborty, Habibur Rahaman, Sk.sikandar.

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AIFF League Committee met at the Football House in New Delhi

28.08.2018: AIFF PRESS RELESE : All India Football Federation League Committee met at the Football House in New Delhi today (August 28, 2018). Mr. Subrata Dutta, Chairman, League Committee chaired the meeting whereas Mr. Kushal Das, General Secretary, AIFF, Mr. Sunando Dhar, CEO, I-League, Mr. Souter Vaz, Member, League Committee were also present along with Mr. Chirag Tanna and Mr. Rochak Langer, representatives from FSDL, Marketing partner, AIFF.

The Committee discussed the request of Churchill Brothers FC Goa to allow them in the Hero I-League next season which is slated to kick-off in October this year.

The Committee considered the request and after due deliberation, the Committee decided to place the issue further to the Emergency Committee who will take the final decision on a later date.

The Committee further discussed on the scheduling of the I-League and they decided that the eleventh edition of I-League will commence in the last week of October 2018.

On basis of Shivajians’ plea, AIFF will go through with an Academy Accreditation inspection. As per the star-rating, they’ll be allowed to take part in the youth leagues next season.

AIFF is in a process to formulate a professional as well as an amateur player contract template which is to be circulated amongst the clubs. The same would be enforced in the next edition of league.

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INDIA U16 National Team registered an inspiring 2-1 victory against Cameroon U16

AIFF PRESS RELEASE 22.08.2018: The U16 National Team registered an inspiring 2-1 victory against Cameroon U16 National Team in a Friendly match in Istanbul on Wednesday (August 22). Ridge Melvin (1') and Rohit Danu (20') scored early to propel India to a comfortable lead at the half-time, though Cameroon reduced the margin in the 2nd half.

Ridge took only 30 seconds to open the scoring against the African side when he converted a sublime Vikram cross from the left. Four minutes later, Vikram tried once again but an alert Cameroon goalkeeper collected the ball safely. The Indian attackers continued to press hard to double the lead and they did not need to wait for more to breach the Cameroonian defence once again.

In the 20th minute, Givson floated a long ball forward and Rohit slotted it home calmly. The Indomitable Lions tried their heart and soul to find the gap but Indian defenders contained with them until the half-time whistle. Coach Bibiano Fernandes tweaked in his strategy in the second half having brought in Ravi Bahadur for Sailo after the hour-mark.

Cameroon attackers who were lurking inside the Indian half finally found the back of the net in the 63rd minute to dash Niraj's hope to register a clean sheet. Bhubaneswar who stole the show against Iraq in the recently-concluded WAFF Championship tried his luck in the 71st minute but the custodian saved the long-ranger without much fuss.

INDIA GIRLS ARE SAFF U-15 CHAMPIONS 2018
AIFF PRESS RELEASE 18.08.2018: AIFF PRESS RELEASE: THIMPHU (BHUTAN), 18th August 2018 : India U-15 girls were crowned Champions of the SAFF U-15 Championship after defeating defending champions Bangladesh U-15 by a solitary goal in the final played at the Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu, Bhutan today (August 18, 2018).

Sunita Munda’s strike in the 67th minute made all the difference between the two teams. It was a hard-fought victory with both teams having hit the woodwork once. The Indian girls started in an attacking fashion and as early as the 2nd minute, Avika Singh’s free-kick rattled the bar and off the rebound, Shilky Devi’s header went inches wide. Three minutes later, Sunita Munda with a solo run burst into the rival box but only with the opposition goalkeeper to beat, she fumbled.

Spurred, the Indian girls dominated possession and created chances almost at will. Kritina Devi’s speed down the flanks proved to be a constant threat for the opposition defence. The opposition custodian saved her shot in the 27th minute as India pressed for that inevitable goal.However, much against the run of play, the Indian defence fumbled in the 43rd minute when defender Ritu failed to clear her ball, allowing Bangladesh a clear shot at goal. But striker Anuching Mogini failed to find the net from close range as both teams headed to the interval locked goalless. In the second half, the trend stayed the same with the Indian girls dominating possession and they were finally rewarded in the 67thminute.

In the 66th minute, Avika Singh found Sunita Munda in the box but the rival defence managed to clear it for a corner. Form the resultant corner, Sunita found the back off the net after she connected from Lynda Kom’s cross. Having not much options, Bangladesh went all out in the attack. In the 76th minute, Bangladesh hit the bar. However, the Indian defence stood stern and goalkeeper Manish made agile saves in the dying minutes. The Indian U-15 Women scored sixteen goals in four matches including the final and semi-final and conceded just one all throughout the Championship.

U-16 NATIONAL TEAM TO PLAY TURKEY, OMAN IN ISTANBUL CUP
AIFF PRESS RELEASE 18.08.2018: Less than two weeks after the Indian U-16 National Team finished runners-up to Japan in the five-nation WAFF U-16 Championship, the squad will be participating in the tri-nation Istanbul Cup in Turkey as part of their exposure for next month’s AFC U-16 Championship Malaysia 2018.

The colts will be playing Turkey U-16 National Team and Oman U-16 National Team in the tournament, and play another Friendly match with U-16 Besiktas before returning to India. From January 2018, the team has so far played 19 International matches against U-16 National Teams including the likes of USA, Norway, Japan, Serbia, Iraq, DPR Korea, China (U-17), Thailand, Jordan amongst others.

"With us playing Oman in Turkey, the boys would now have played 9 of the qualified 16 teams (including India) for the AFC U-16 Championship. The quality of matches we played during the exposure tours will help the coach and the players in the long run as these are the countries which we will be playing often at the Asian level," National Team Director Abhishek Yadav maintained.

Yadav, a former India Captain felt the Istanbul Cup holds huge significance "as this is our last preparatory tour before the AFC U-16 Championship.""We at AIFF believe this is good preparation before the AFC Championship. The exposure tours have helped the Coach and the players to gauge the standard and what to expect in the Championship," he maintained.

For the record, Bibiano's boys have played Friendly matches against all the Teams in Group A of AFC U-16 Championship (Malaysia, Japan, Tajikistan and Thailand) and three from Group B (DPR Korea, Yemen, Jordan) plus Iraq in the last 8 months. Head Coach Bibiano Fernandes felt playing against Turkey and Oman will further enhance the confidence of the boys prior to the "acid test."

"We look forward to playing against Turkey who have played the FIFA U-17 World Cup a few times including the last edition in India in 2017. Furthermore, as Oman are part of the AFC U-16 Finals in Malaysia, nothing could be more appropriate build-up for us," he stated.

Turkey's youth development system has always been touted as among the best in Europe with the country having won the European U-17 Champions in 2005, and had finished semi-finalists in 2008, 2010 and 2017. They were also the European U-16 champions in 1993 having finished runners-up the next year in 1994.

Oman on the other hand have won the AFC U-16 Championship twice in 1996 and 2000 and had reached the quarterfinals the last time the Championship was played in Goa in 2016. At the AFC U-16 Championship, India have been clubbed with strong contenders Iran, Vietnam and Indonesia in Group C and begin their campaign on September 21 against Vietnam. The four semi-finalists from the competition earn a direct berth to the FIFA U-17 World Cup Peru 2019.

India's match schedule in Turkey stay as follows:
ISTNBUL CUP:
August 20: India U-16 vs Oman U-16
August 22: India U-16 vs Turkey U-16

FRIENDLY MATCH:
August 25: India U-16 vs Besiktas U-16.

GFA encourages Clubs from ST Areas
GFA PRESS RELEASE: 18.08.2018: The Goa Football Association has reduced the registration fees for new clubs hailing from ST areas by 50% of the current fees to encourage new clubs from these areas. GFA President, Mr. Elvis Gomes said that there is a huge pool of players in ST areas that remains untapped and hence to encourage more clubs from these areas, GFA decided to reduce the fees. New Clubs registration fees is Rs.20000/- which means the new clubs will be required to pay only Rs.10000/-. "There is a lot of sporting talent.

My desire was to encourage the youth from these areas to play competitive football. Hence I moved the proposal which the Executive Committee accepted" said Mr. Gomes exhorting clubs from ST areas to register with the Association. GFA said that a simple certificate from the Panchayat or Municipality would be sufficient to show that atleast 75% of the people in the village are under ST category. The GFA also decided to grant Provisional Registration to Bidesh XI Sports Club, an old club that had lost it's affiliation and FC Mardol a new club.

Meanwhile, GFA approved the appointment of Adv. John Abreu Lobo, a practicing Advocate in the High Court, as the Returning Officer for the forthcoming elections of the GFA Executive Committee.The President said that the election schedule would be released shortly in consultation with the Returning Officer as the GFA was gearing up to host the Junior National Girls Championship comprising of state teams from the 20th of this month. He said that the Electoral College List as on date would also be circulated to the Active Members for their record, which will be the Electoral List for the forthcoming elections.

AIFF TO OFFER FINANCIAL SUBSIDY TO ELIGIBLE BABY LEAGUE OPERATORS

AIFF PRESS RELEASE - 16.08.2018 : AIFF will offer a financial subsidy to eligible Baby League operators under the AIFF Baby Leagues project as part of the FIFA Forward Plan. A Baby League Operator can be a cub, stand-alone academy, State FA, District FA, Corporate Unit or any natural or judicial person.

For a league operator to be eligible for the subsidy, the league must be among the first 99 baby leagues that are being set up in India under the present phase and across different age categories (4 to 13 years), and adhered to subsidy terms and conditions, as prescribed and notified by the AIFF.

AIFF proposes to provide the league operators with a subsidy of INR 85,000 (Indian Rupees Eighty-five thousand) for a league in each age category. A Baby League Operator must have a minimum of 3 age categories.The AIFF Baby Leagues project also endeavours to identify and incentivize the best-organized league and the State Football Association with the most enthusiastic participation.

The league and State FA identified would be eligible for an incentive at the end of the first phase of the AIFF Baby Leagues project. The leagues would be evaluated on the basis of the number of days that the league runs for, the number of teams that participate and the number of rounds that a team plays in the league itself as per the regulations.

All potential baby league operators should notify AIFF about their intention to operate a league in writing to the AIFF through their respective State Football Associations via the League organization request form available on the official AIFF website. Upon approval, a confirmation email will be sent to the league operator to go ahead on the same with the operator registering the same on the Baby league application.

INDIAN U-15 WOMEN DEFEAT NEPAL TO SECURE BERTH IN SAFF FINAL

AIFF PRESS RELEASE - 16.08.2018 : The Indian U-15 Women’s National Team progressed to the Final of the SAFF U-15 Championship after defeating Nepal 2-1 in the semi-finals at the Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu, Bhutan today (August 16, 2018). The final of the SAFF U-15 Championship is slated to kick-off on August 18, 2018 and India will face the winners of the second semi-final clash between hosts Bhutan and Bangladesh.

Lynda Kom’s 31st minute strike followed by Kritina Devi’s 58th minute goal led the Indian Women to a hard fought win over a determined Nepalese side, after the opponents had found the net in 37th minute through Rajani Thokar. The Indian Women had the chance to take the lead in the first minute itself but Avika Singh’s shot crept inches past the goal. Nepal recuperated after the nervy start and despite focusing on counter-attacks to test the Indian defence, could not give the U-15 Women a scare.

In the 25th minute, Avika Singh had another opportunity to give India the lead but this time her shot rattled the bar and went out after Shilky Devi had found her in the box with some crafty play. A minute later, Sunita Munda hit the Nepal sidenetting as India upped the ante.

The breakthrough came in the 31st minute when Lynda Kom was found inside the box by a cross from Sunita Munda and Kom slotted the ball home with sheer acumen to give the Indian Women a solitary goal lead.However in the 37th minute, Nepal equalized their deficit when goalkeeper Manish made a howler of a routine save and Rajani Thokar latched on to find the net for the opponents as the scoreline read 1-1.

Both teams went into the tunnel on level pegging, despite India dominating possession and chances created, as the half-time scoreline read 1-1.In the 55th minute, Lynda Kom was once again provided with an opportunity to find the net, but this time, an onrushing custodian saved her shot. Three minutes later, Kritina Devi chipped the Nepalese custodian from distance and found the back of the net to give India the lead as the scoreline read 2-1.

Sunita Munda’s speed down the middle of the pitch proved to be threat for the Nepalese defence line and in the 66th minute, she found Shilky Devi, whose shot was saved by the opposition custodian.Although Nepal attacked with numbers in the dying embers of the match, the Indian Women committed bodies in defence and matched blow to blow. The full-time scoreline read 2-1 as India defeated Nepal in the semi-finals.

The final of the SAFF U-15 Championship is slated to kick-off on August 18, 2018 and India will face the winners of the second semi-final clash between hosts Bhutan and Bangladesh.

A 22-member India National Team squad will travel to Australia on August 17

AIFF PRESS RELEASE - 16.08.2018 : A 22-member India National Team squad will travel to Australia on August 17, 2018 as part of their preparation for the forthcoming SAFF Suzuki Cup. The squad has been camping in Delhi since July 28, 2018.

The Indian U-23 squad will be based at the Valentine Sports Park in Sydney for another 16-day long preparatory camp before they eventually leave for Dhaka on September 1, 2018. "The exposure trip was planned before the Asian Games but unfortunately, we were barred from taking part in the Games. We didn't see any reason to cancel the trip and had to postpone it prior to the SAFF Tournament,” Head Coach Stephen Constantine informed.

Apart from the 22 players, 2 players have been kept in reserves who might get a call-up to join the contingent in Australia if circumstances demand so, 20 boys will eventually travel for the SAFF Suzuki Cup. Constantine also thanked the clubs for releasing the players from their club commitments giving the National Duty more priority.

"I would like to express my gratitude to the clubs for letting the players join the more-than-a-month long National Team Camp. We need such support from them until the AFC Asian Cup 2019. It's good for the country as well as the clubs. I appreciate that”, he added. "Although we didn't qualify for the AFC U23 Championship, these boys showed good signs in Qatar last year. A few new boys have come and they're putting in an effort to integrate with the other boys.”

“It's a group of talented youngsters and I believe a good number of players will graduate to the senior team in time,” the Coach mentioned. On being asked whether the U23 boys will be under pressure against the Senior Teams in the SAFF Suzuki Cup, he explained: "I take it as a challenge for us. If the senior boys compete in the SAFF Tournament, these young boys won't get the opportunity to play anytime soon. I think this tournament should be treated as a platform to give more exposure to the U23 boys which will be beneficial for India in future."

The list of 22 players along with 2 reserves stay as follows:

GOALKEEPERS: Vishal Kaith, Kamaljit Singh, Sukhdev Patil.

DEFENDERS: Davinder Singh, Salam Ranjan Singh, Sarthak Golui, Subhasish Bose, Mohd. Sajid Dhot, Jerry Lalrinzuala.

MIDFIELDERS: Nikhil Poojary, Isaac Vanmalswama, Nandha Kumar, Vinit Rai, Germanpreet Singh, Anirudh Thapa, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Ashique Kuruniyan, Vignesh D.

FORWARDS: Sumit Passi, Hitesh Sharma, Manvir Singh, Farukh Choudhary.

RESERVES: Lalruatthara, Rohit Kumar.

IFA to organise 38 th Football Lovers’ Day (August 16, 2018)

16.08.2018 : 1043 Football Lovers donated their valuable Blood Today at Khudiram Anuhilan Kendra - Kolkata in memory of those 16 Football Lovers who died in 1980 Derby Match between East Bengal and Mohun Bagan at Eden Garden. Out of 1043 doners 590 donated Blood at kolkata and rest 453 Donated other district organisation under IFA.

It was August 16, 1980. A grimmest tragedy in the soccer field shocked the sports lovers when it claimed the lives of as many as 16 football lovers at the Eden Gardens.Thereafter, thousands of well-meaning lovers of the game and the people in general took an oath and the same day every year is being jointly observed by The Indian Football Association (W.B.) and Association of Voluntary Blood Donors, West Bengal as Football Lovers’ Day, when thousands of people from all walks of life assemble to offer their gift of blood voluntarily.

The 38 th occasion of FOOTBALL LOVERS’ DAY, is on the card on August 16, 2018, Thursday, at the Kshudiram Anushilan Kendra, Kolkata. The blood donation camp will start at 9.00 a.m. and continue till 6.00 p.m. Association of Voluntary Blood Donors, West Bengal has been entrusted by The Indian Football Association (W.B.) with the management of the said camp like all previous years.

Govt. Blood Banks of West Bengal will take part in collection of blood from the donors. It is heartening that football lovers in the Districts/ Sub-Divisions have also been inspired to observe the day in a similar manner in their respective places. This year the following such organizations have come forward to observe the day:

This year each donor will be presented with a certificate of honour autographed by eminent footballer Sri Manoranjan Bhattacharyya. Each Donor will be honoured by awarding a ceremonial badge of the IFA. This mass blood donation camp has generated a large number of small regular blood donation camps throughout the year. West Bengal now leads the country in the field of voluntary blood donor recruitment.

The following chart will reveal the names of the signatories of certificates awarded to the donors and number of voluntary blood donors at Kolkata’s camps in the previous years.

Year Donors Signatories 1981 1203 Sri Sailen Manna 1982 976 Sri Umapati Kumar 1983 973 Sri Tejesh Ch. (Bagha) Shome 1984 855 Sri Chuni Goswami 1985 1489 Sri Sahoo Mewalal 1986 1455 Sri Tulsidas Balaram 1987 1577 Sri Pradip Kumar Banerjee 1988 1438 Sri Subhas Bhowmick 1989 1140 Sri Samar (Badru) Banerjee 1990 1054 Sri ShyamThapa 1991 1147 Sri Ahmed Khan 1992 1281 Syed Naimuddin 1993 1130 Sri Byomkesh Bose 1994 1104 Sri Sukumar Samajpati 1995 729 Sri Arun Ghosh 1996 1223 Md. Habib 1997 1114 Md. M.A. Sattar 1998 929 Sri Prodyut Barman 1999 1144 Sri AmalDutta 2000 1183 Sri Sanat Seth 2001 1115 Sri Nikhil Nandy 2002 1106 Sri Santo Mitra 2003 951 Sri Surajit Sengupta 2004 1162 Sri Subrata Bhattacharyya 2005 1077 Sri Baichung Bhutia 2006 837 Sri Goutam Sarkar 2007 887 Mr. Peter Thangaraj 2008 832 Sri Parimal Dey 2009 685 Sri Prasun Banerjee 2010 1240 Sri Atanu Bhattachariya 2011 1326 Sri Sudhir Karmakar 2012 1045 Sri Bhaskar Gunguly 2013 1208 Sri Mrityunjoy Banerjee 2014 1281 Sri Manas Kumar Bhattacharyya 2015 1141 Sri Sibaji Banerjee 2016 1053 Sri Pradip Chowdhury 2017 983 Sri Aloke Mukherjee 2018 Sri Manoranjan Bhattacharyya.

I AM FIT TO PLAY FOR EAST BENGAL: ACOSTA

KFC NEWS DESK - 09.08.2018: East Bengal officially announced the joining of Jonny Acosta the Costa Rican central defender. Acosta was an important member of the Costa Rica squad which participated in the recently concluded World Cup at Russia, played seventy international matches for Costa Rica. Jonny Acosta joined Red and Gold from Rionegro Agulias, one of the premier team from Columbia.

In a meeting in front of the media on Tuesday evening club President Dr Pranab Das Gupta and secretary Mr Kalyan Mazumdar revealed Jonny Acosta with jersey no 2, but the press conference were forced to defer on Wednesday evening due to the absence of a Spanish interpreter and unavailable of internet facility in the East Bengal club premises. The club authorities and their partner Quess were in a mood to use the Goggle transleter during the press conference.

In a press meeting at East Bengal club media room on Wednesday with help the of a Spanish interpreter Rabisankar Pal, the central defender from Costa Rica said, "I am thrilled and look forward to serve East Bengal in all possible ways. I had my regular training sessions after the World Cup and fully fit to start my journey for my new club. I am waiting for the international clearance and to complete the necessary arrangement.

While answering to a question Jonny Acosta said that he did not have any idea or experience about Indian or Kolkata football. Acosta is yet to taste the standard of Indian football but he is well aware that East Bengal is one of the oldest and biggest club in India. This is the main reason to join Red and Gold rather than to play in Indian Super League. He is in India to gather a new experience about Indian and play a high brand of football in India.

Paolo Maldini, the Italian central defender is Acosta's idol, though he admires the football talent of many international footballers. Acosta said that each and every footballer had a talent and style of playing. He want to utilise the style and variations in his playing.

While answering Acosta said it's a good experience to play against Neymar Junior, the Brazalian striker in the World Cup, though he feels the performance of Costa Rica in World Cup 2014 in Brazil was much better where his country was qualified for the quarter final round. Jonny Acosta joins a list of famous international footballers, Nicholas Anekla, Roberto Carlos and Diego Forlan before he decided to play in an Indian club in search of a new venture.

Gadhinglaj United football Associations successfully organised their 3rd edition of "Football Proud Award 2018 Ceremony

KOLHAPUR : 06.08.2018 : Maharashtra based Kolapur district's Gadhinglaj United football Associations successfully organised their 3rd edition of "Football Proud Award 2018 Ceremony on 4th August 2018. GUFA Secretary Deepak Kuppannvar told us about the ceremony in presence of United Director Suresh Kolki. He gave information to us about this year the "Football Proud Award" details which furnish below :-

1. United gave honor to the All India Football federation Executive member & Himachal Pradesh state football Association Secretary Deepak Sharma who played 4 times Santosh trophy National Football represented from Himachal Pradesh. Now Sharma working as coach in Govt. Senior Secondary School, Khad in Una district of Himachal Pradesh.

In 2010, Mr. Deepak Sharma was elected as the General Secretary of Himachal Pradesh Football Association and has been serving the post who have so many contributions to develop football in Himachal Pradesh. During his tenure Mr. Deepak Sharma, started AIFF D License coaching course for development of trained coaches for the young football learners.

He also started the Referee license coach to promote football events and to ensure young players play association football understanding all its rules. He is also the first person from Himachal who is member of AIFF Competitions Committee and was Designated Member of FIFA Under- 17 World Cup held in India in 2017.

2. Kolhapur's Yauvraj Altyekar facilitated as most talented player in U-19 the United in the Ceremony. Yauvaraj is an young talented footballer from Kolhapur who is now playing from Sesa football academy Goa. He performed excellent in U 18 Youth I league as well as in Goa first div league last season for his team.

3. United's Life time achievement award went to Ex Coach Appasaheb Wanire. Ex Coach Appasaheb Wanire is working for football development in Kolhapur district from last 40 years. As a Coach of Maharashtra High School produced so many talented players in Kolhapur. He written a book based on Kolhapuri football. He is now 75 years but still working as match observer for so many local tournaments being held in and around Kolhapur district.

A 10-man India U-20 defeated powerhouses Argentina U-20 2-1

video link - VIDEO LINK

06.08.2018 - AIFF PRESS RELEASE : A 10-man India U-20 defeated powerhouses Argentina U-20 2-1 in what Coach Floyd Pinto describes as one of the “biggest days for Indian Football” in the U-20 COTIF Cup in Spain. 8 boys who represented India in the FIFA U-17 World Cup started the day for India with the rest all being from AIFF’s developmental team Indian Arrows.

Goals from Deepak Tangri (4th), and a divine free-kick from Anwar Ali (68th) along with some determined pressing, defending and astute passing helped India register the upset victory against Argentina U-20 who have won 6 FIFA U-20 World Cups over the years. For the record, this is the second time the two sides met – the first time being in the 3rd Nehru Cup in Calcutta in 1984 when India lost 0-1.

The Argentina U-20 is being coached by 2006 World Cupper Lionel Scaloni while Argentine great Pablo Aimar has also accompanied the team as the Technical Director of the side. Post-match, in an exclusive interview, Floyd took us back to the match describing the goals, the strategy, the perseverance, the movement and much more. EXCERPTS:

The victory against Argentina was achieved with 10-men.
Yeah, we were reduced to 10 after Aniket Yadav was flashed the red card. To play 40 minutes against Argentina with 10 men, double our lead and hold on to the lead to eventually win, needed every ounce of character and vocal support, both on and off the field.

Describe the two goals.
The one thing missing from our continued development through this tournament were goals. I am really happy the boys adapted so quickly and effectively to the changes we made post our first gamer. I just couldn’t have asked for a better reaction.

How did the bench react?
The bench was understandably ecstatic yet calm as there was a lot of football yet to be played. Deepak Tangri’s goal was one of a sheer determination while Anwar Ali’s free-kick was of the highest order. We wanted to put in a performance that would make people forget about our previous game against Venezuela U-20 and the boys managed to do that.

After the loss against Mauritania U-20, how did this turnaround happen?
The loss provoked us to rethink the way we played against high calibre opponents. To achieve first a draw against current U-20 FIFA World Cup runners-up Venezuela and now beat Argentina goes to show the immense work put in to restructure the organization of the team & the flawless execution by the players in both games. The win today has given me the belief that with the right support we are moving in the right direction.

Do you feel this victory will change the outer world' view towards Indian Football?
This victory will definitely earn Indian Football more respect in the World of Football. It opens up a window of opportunity to test ourselves against the best in the World on a regular basis.

I also need to highlight the U-16 boys winning against current U-16 Asian Champions Iraq on the same day. Both the victories are proof that this bunch of young U-16 and U-20 players are undergoing a systematic planning and exposure with the right kind of matches which is required for their continuous development.

A win against Argentina -- was it anywhere in your bucket list when you started your coaching career?
It’s unbelievable! I am a very proud Indian today. This win is a testament to the efforts and belief of the All India Football Federation in moving forward towards developing the youth of the Country. I would like to the General Secretary Mr. Kushal Das and Abhishek for their continued support throughout our preparation along with SAI. This is a victory for the coaching, administrative, the media staff and all the fans. We have a renewed belief that with the right support & exposure we are capable to compete with the best teams in the World.

INDIA U-16 BEAT CURRENT U-16 CHAMPIONS IRAQ

AIFF PRESS RELEASE 06.08.2018 : After India U-16 registered a historic 1-0 victory over current Asian U-16 Champions Iraq in the WAFF U-16 Championship in Amman, Jordan, Head Coach Bibiano Fernandes dedicated the victory “to all the fellow Indian Coaches.”

In a match which India stayed the dominant side, Buevenesh headed in the match-winner in added time, providing the perfect finish to a sublime build-up. This is the first-ever victory for any Indian Football Team against Iraq in any format and among all age-groups.

“I would like to dedicate this win to all my fellow Indian Coaches who train the boys before they join us at the AIFF Academy and eventually the National Team. We need to start believing in ourselves. The team thanks the fans and well-wishers of Indian Football who have always stood by us,” Bibiano said post match.

Not someone who likes to dive deep into history, Bibiano smiled when reminded about this being the first-ever Indian victory against Iraq. “Whether it's a final or just a friendly match, when you score a winner in the dying minutes of a match, it's always special,” he added.

There were euphoric celebrations after Bhuvenesh had headed it in against the current Asian U-16 champions with the entire bench rushing onto the field to congratulate each other.

“Even though there have been some changes in the Iraqi side team from the side we played at the AFC Qualifiers in Nepal, it's always difficult to play them because of physicality. However, the performance in the previous matches kept us all confident and I knew my boys would give everything to win this match,” Bibiano stated. The previous time the two teams had met in the AFC U-16 Qualifiers in Nepal, the match had ended 0-0.

Reflecting on India’s dominance in the match, Bibiano informed that he kept on telling the boys to stay focussed all throughout.

“I knew we were getting close to scoring. I just had to tell the boys not to give up till the end and to stick to the plan till the final whistle. It eventually paid dividends.” He even admitted that he keeps reminding his wards about India’s goal against U-16 scored in the previous match, the first goal for India against Japan in 36 years.

“I keep reminding them about the goal and that this is just a process to learn and improve and to be humble after every step.” “We have the AFC U-16 Championship at the back of our minds. It’s fast approaching and I pray the boys stay away from injuries.”

MIZORAM FOOTBALL - LG Independence Cup 2018 : Back to back victories for Mizoram Police FC

0108.2018 : Mizoram Police FC overcame First Division opposition Kanan FC this afteroon in a 2-1 victory. A spot kick from R. Malsawmtluanga and a second half finish from V. Laltanpuia ensured consecutive three points for the Police side.

Aug 1, 2018 : Kanan FC 1-2 Mizoram Police FC
KFC : (Lalhriatpuia 81')
MPFC : (R Malsawmtluanga 37' P, V Laltanpuia 73')
MOM : V Laltanpuia, Mizoram Police FC

Kanan FC scored late on through a special goal from Lalhriatpuia but could not find an equaliser before time. They will rue their missed chances in the first half as Isaac Lalnunpuia forced Mizoram Police FC keeper Muanawma to make a save while Lalhmingchhuanga also came very close.

Mizoram Police for their part, controlled proceedings for a majority of the match although they were also guilty of some wayward finishing. The Police team will now face defending champions Chhinga Veng FC on Friday evening after Kanan FC entertain Jamshedpur FC in the afternoon.

MOHUN BAGAN- observed historical "Mohun Bagan Day 2018"
29.07.2018 : Mohun Bagan Athletic Club observed historical "Mohun Bagan Day 2018" to commemorate the victory of IFA Shield Final against East Yorkshire Regiment 2-1 on 29th July 1911. The event hosted at Mohun Bagan Athletic Club Ground today. The Executive Committee Members of Mohun Bagan Athletic Club have confered the Prestigious "Mohun Bagan Ratna 2018" along with a Cheque of Rs. 1 Lakh to ex- footballer Shri Pradip Choudhury for his contribution to the game of football. The Late Karuna Shankar Bhattacharya award for Best Footballer for the year 2017-18 will be awarded given to Goalkeeper Mr. Shilton Paul for his outstanding performance for the season 2017-18. Sourav Das has been given the Best Youth Footballer Player (Youth Team) for the season 2017-18. u-17 Footballer Mr. Rahim Ali has got Special Award for his performance for India U-17 team in FIFA U-17 World Cup 2017 and I-League 2017-18.

MIZORAM FOOTBALL - LG Independence Cup 2018 : Chhinga Veng FC win 2-0

MFA Press Release: 29.07.2018 : After failing to score for 120 minutes against their opponents for tonight in the MFA Super Cup, Chhinga Veng FC made sure they did not slip up against Kanan FC with a 2-0 victory. A first half goal from Vanlalzuidika and a brilliant second half strike from debutant Lalromawia was enough to seal all three points for CVFC in an even match up.

28th July, 2018 : Chhinga Veng FC 2-0 Kanan FC
CVS : (Vanlalzuidika 13', Lalromawia 73') MOM : : Lalromawia - CVFC

A team from the ADFA's First Division, Kanan FC held their own against the reigning MPL champions for the majority of the match but their valiant effort was ultimately undone by the difference in individual quality. Kanan FC will face Mizoram Police FC in their next game on Wednesday afternoon while Chhinga Veng FC will clash with the same opposition on Friday evening.

Two quick goals ensure comeback victory for Mizoram Police

Mizoram Premier League newcomers Chawnpui FC could not hold on to an early lead against Mizoram Police FC this afternoon as the Police team came out on top in a 2-1 victory.A bright start from Chawnpui FC resulted in them finding the back of the net with their first clear cut chance of the game. Vanlalnghenga scoring a sumptuous freekick in the 6th minute.

Chawnpui FC enjoyed a period of dominance early on but they could not add to the scoreline as Vanrammawia Ngente and K. Roluahpuia failed to test Mizoram Police custodian Andrew when they were put through. Mizoram Police almost pulled one back through Fakawma right before the break but Chawnpui's Malsawma showed safe hands.

The Police team changed shape in the second period and looked threatening on the break. Lalbiakhlua took advantage of such a break and equalised for his team on the 61st minute and Lalfakzuala added another a minute later from a corner by Simon. To add insult to injury, Chawnpui FC were reduced to 10 men after Lalhlimpuia was sent off three minutes from time.

28th July- Mizoram Police FC 2-1 Chawnpui FC
MPS : ( Lalbiakhlua 61', Lalfakzuala 62')
CFC : (Vanlalnghenga 7',)
: Lalbiakhlua - Mizoram Police FC

MOHUN BAGAN, MOHAMMEDAN SPORTING AND EAST BENGAL CLUB MOURN KALIA KULOTHUNGAN PASSING

28.07.2018 - MOHAMMEDN SC PRESS RELEASE : Mohammedan Sporting Club are in a state of mourning following the passing of former Black Panthers midfielder Kalia Kulothungan (39) on Saturday following a bike accident. The Tmail Nadu native has played for Mohammedan Sporting Club from 2004 to 2007.

"I have received the devastating news of Kalia Kulothungan’s passing," laments Mohammedan Sporting Club Assistant Ground Secretary Belal Ahmed Khan. "I am still reeling from the shock of hearing this sad news."

"Kalia Kulothungan may be gone but he will never be forgotten. His memory will linger on in the hearts and minds of the Mohammedan Sporting Club faithfuls." he added. Mohammedan Sporting Club flag has been lowered to half-mast to mark the day of mourning.

MOHUN BAGAN PRESS RELEASE : We are deeply saddened with the news of the sudden demise of our Club Ex-Football Player Mr. Kalia Kulothungan due to a road accident.

We extend our deepest sympathies to the bereaved family. We pray to almighty to bestow his family members solace and courage to fight from this untimely and irreparable loss. May his soul rest in peace.

EAST BENGAL PRESS RELEASE : Former East Bengal player K.Kulothungan died in a bike accident at Tanjore,Tamil Nadu on 27.07.18.Kulothungan played for the club in 2002-03 and 2003-04.He was a member of the East Bengal team which won the LG Asean Club Cup at Jakarta in 2003.

He scored 7 goals for the club including one in the final of the Durand Cup 2002 vs Army XI.He also won the NFL twice ,IFA Shield and CFL twice apart from Independence Day Cup at Nowgong.The club conveys its condoloences to his family.YThe Club flag was flown at half mast today in his memory.

MIZORAM FOOTBALL - LG Independence Cup 2018 : Chanmari FC start off in clinical fashion

MFA Press Release: 28.07.2018 : Former champions Chanmari FC began their LG Independence Cup campaign with a victory from Bethlehem Vengthlang FC with goals from Laldampuia and Lalrammuana.

July 27, 2018 - Chanmari FC 2-0 Bethlehem Vengthlang FC
CFC : (Laldampuia 28', Lalrammuana 90+1')
MOM : R. Lalawmpuia - Chanmari FC

MATCH-2: The finalists in the recently concluded MFA Super Cup broke the deadlock in the 28th minute when new forward Laldampuia finished off a rebound from a fierce shot by Thomas which had struck the post.

After taking the lead in an even match up until the goal, Chanmari FC were happy to play out a patient game, looking to capitalise on the spaces left by Bethlehem Vengthlang FC as they searched for an equaliser.

BVT FC made changes after the break that almost paid dividends instantly as substitute Ellis H Zothansanga missed a glorious chance. Dina Varte soon followed suit and their profligacy in front of goal was soon punished by their opponents.

Looking to kill off the game, coach Lalruatliana Sailo introduced Lalrammuana in place of goalscorer Laldampuia. And the substitute repaid his manager's faith by slotting past Bethlehem Vengthlang FC's keeper Eddie Zorammawia in stoppage time.

MATCH - 1 : Electric Veng FC began their season in the most emphatic fashion as they pulled off an unlikely win against two time MPL champions Aizawl FC.

July 27, 2018 - Aizawl FC 1-2 Electric Veng FC
AFC : (Lalkhawpuimawia 85')
VFC : (Isak Vanlalpeka 18' Vanlalhmangaiha 27')

First half goals from Isak Vanlalpeka and Vanlalhmangaiha were enough to ensure three points for the MPL newcomers. Aizawl FC did pull one back through Lalkhawpuimawia in the 85th minute but it was too little too late, as their relentless pressure in the second half could not yield in enough goals to earn a point.

Electric Veng FC will be bouyed by their morale-boosting victory against formidable opposition and they could have had more had it not been for some sloppy play in the final third. They will now face Chanmari FC on Monday afternoon while Aizawl FC await the same opponents on Thursday evening.

Bengaluru FC to face Barcelona B, Villarreal B in pre-season friendly

27.07.2018: BFC PRESS RELEASE : Blues To Train At Valencia-Based Facility During Two-Week Camp In August; Opponents Include Shabab Al Ahli Dubai, Atletico Saguntino. Bengaluru FC depart for Spain On July 30 for a fortnight-long pre-season camp that includes games against the reserve sides of Spanish giants FC Barcelona and Villarreal, the club announced on Friday.

In preparation for their two-legged Inter-Zone clash against Turkmenistan’s Altyn Asyr FC later next month, the Blues will play a series of friendly games in the Iberian Peninsula, which include clashes against 2015 AFC Champions League runners-up Shabab Al Ahli Dubai FC and Spanish Segunda B side, Atletico Saguntino.

Bengaluru will be training at Soccer's Masía La Grava facility in Valencia. This will be the second phase of the pre-season for Carles Cuadrat’s men after completing a 10-day camp at the club’s residential facility in Bellary.

While in Spain, Bengaluru FC will be playing friendlies against Segunda División B side Atlético Saguntino at the same facility, followed by a clash against UAE Pro-League side Shabab Al Ahli Dubai FC in Alicante. The Blues will then take on reserve sides of La Liga giants Villarreal CF and FC Barcelona in away games during the second half of their stay, with the game against the Catalans to be played at the 15,000-plus seater Mini Estadi in Barcelona.

The squad will return back to Bengaluru on August 15 ahead of their first leg clash against Altyn Asyr on August 22 at the Kanteerava Stadium followed by the return leg on August 29 in Turkmenistan.

At the start of the 2017-18 season, the Blues trained at Pinatar Arena in Murcia for ten days while playing friendly games against Segunda B sides UCAM Murcia CF, FC Cartagena and UAE's Baniyas S&R.

MIZORAM FOOTBALL - Lloyd MFA Futsal 2018 Tournament concluded

27.07.2018: MFA PRESS RELEASE : The finals of Lloyd MFA Futsal Tournament were played on the 25th July evening under the floodlit Lammual ground - 77 FC, Paul FC and Chhinga Veng Futsal Club emerged as champions.

Three different competitions were played simultaneously - Veteran tournament for the players above 40 years, Division One Tournament which is the second tier and for the top tier MFA Futsal League Club Tournament.

Veteran Final : 77 FC 5-2 Ditea's FC
77FC : (R Vanlalfela 5', 23', R Lalremtluanga 14', 36', K Lalchhanchhuaha 17')
DFC : (R Vanlalfela (OG) 19', Lalthanpuia 32')

Division One Final : Paul FC 8-3 FC Khatla
PFC : (Lalsangbera 7', 10', 30', Lalmalsawma 13', F Lalrinpuia 25', Lalnunmawia 37', Israel Laldingngheta 40', K Lalthathanga 45')
FCK : (Lalbiakhlua 3', Lalrinhlua 21', H Lalduhawma 23')

League Club Final : Ramhlun South FC 0-3 Chhinga veng FC
CVFC :(Lalsawmzela 15', 21', Lalhmingchhuanga 18')

The Indian U-16 National Team registered a 2-1 victory against Malaysia U-16

26.07.2018: AIFF PRESS RELEASE : The Indian U-16 National Team registered a 2-1 victory against Malaysia U-16 in the 2nd International Friendly played in Kuala Lumpur today (July 26, 2018). The match ended a 27-day long exposure tour in three different countries which included matches in China, Thailand and Malaysia.

India U-16 Team: Niraj Kumar (GK), Manish Chaudhary, Harpreet Singh, Thoiba Singh, Shabas Ahammed, Bekey Oram (Bikash 90'+3'), Ricky Shabong, Ridge Demello (Ravi Bahadur Rana 72'), Givson Singh (31') (Sailo 78'), Vikram Singh (C), Rohit Danu (21') (Harpreet 84').

After two first-half goals from Rohit Danu (21st minute) and Givson Singh (31st minute) had provided India an early edge, Malaysia managed to pull one back in added time of the second half. After suffering a loss three days back, India started on an aggressive note. Danu tried to latch on an attack from the middle but the Malaysia defenders dealt with it.

The battle was mostly being fought at the middle of the pitch before Danu was brought down by the Malaysian defender. The referee didn't hesitate to award a penalty kick in favour of the visitors, which Danu himself converted.

Ten minutes later, Givson hit the target once again following a meticulous build-up from the midfield. A solo run from Rohit from the left of the box opened up the rival defence. He then passed it to the midfielder who tapped it home to double the lead. Danu breached the Malaysian defence one minute to the half-time but this time his right-footer rattled the woodwork. The second half was confined more to the midfield before India created another opportunity at the stroke of the hour-mark but the opposition goalie leapt over Danu to avert the danger.

Coach Bibiano Fernandes introduced three of fresh legs towards the fag end. Malaysia managed to pull one back in the 94th minute but it was too late for them.

FOOTBALL MIZORAM: LG Independence Cup officially launched

26.07.2018: MFA PRESS RELEASE : The oldest active cup competition under the MFA, the LG Independence Cup was launched on the evening of 25th July in Aizawl. This illustrious club competition will be played from July 27 at Lammual.

Men's teams in Independence Cup 2018
Group A – Chanmari FC, Bethlehem Vengthlang FC, Electric Veng FC, Aizawl FC, Ramhlun North FC
Group B – Mizoram Police FC, Chawnpui FC, Chhinga Veng FC, Kanan FC, Jamshedpur FC

The launch programme was held in Hotel Regency with Mr. Amit Gujral, Chief Marketing Officer and Mr. Ranjit Kumar, MD - Task Team representing LG Electronics. India international Jeje Lalpekhlua took the honour of officially launching the competition.

"We are not stopping at just the Independence Cup, it is just the beginning. We are committed to the people of Mizoram, the youth of Mizoram. We would love to be a part of the upcoming footballing stars from Mizoram and have some kind of association in upbringing the football stature of Mizoram." stated Mr. Gujral.

The esteemed guests unveiled the new Independence Cup trophy which was followed by a tie draw for the 10 participating teams. This year's edition of the Independence Cup will feature the eight Mizoram Premier League clubs and ISL outfit Jamshedpur FC reserves along with Kanan Veng FC from the Aizawl District FA First Division.

One of the competition's former stars, Jeje Lalpekhlua said, "I was part of the 2006 I-Day Cup in what was my first senior tournament in football. It has opened up ways for me and now it is my wish that this year's edition do the same for other footballers."

Independence Day Football will also be played by women teams, Miss Mizoram 2018 T. Ramthanmawii unveiled the jerseys that will be worn by the women teams, all of which are sponsored by LG Electronics.

Chennaiyin FC’s John Gregory receives Association of Indian Football Coaches (AIFC) ISL Coach of the Year award

25.07.2018: CFC PRESS RELEASE : Chennai, July 25 2018 – Chennaiyin FC Head Coach John Gregory was bestowed with the Association of Indian Football Coaches (AIFC) ISL Coach of the Year award at AIFC’s inaugural awards on Tuesday evening at the DY Patil School of Medicine in Navi Mumbai. Gregory was recognized for his achievement of guiding Chennaiyin FC to their second ISL title in March this year, in what is his first ever coaching stint in India.

Formed in December 2017, the Association of Indian Football Coaches (AIFC) is the premier association for coaches in India and is recognized by the All India Football Federation (AIFF). Its aim is to advance and improve football coaching through education, exchange of ideas and welfare of coaches in India.

“This award belongs to the entire coaching staff, management and everyone else associated with Chennaiyin FC for the fantastic last season. I am excited to return to India in a few weeks and begin the new campaign as champions and defend our ISL title. The support of a body like AIFC is extremely important for the entire fraternity of coaches. From all of us at Chennaiyin FC, we would be glad to help the aspiring coaches out there in their endeavours. They are most welcome at our club!” Gregory said on receiving the award through a video message from London, as he couldn’t be present for the event.

Under Gregory, Chennaiyin FC won their second ISL title on March 17 2018 by beating hosts Bengaluru FC 3-2 in the final and finished the campaign with an eight-game unbeaten run. That victory also ensured Gregory’s CFC side a place in the 2019 AFC Cup.

The 64-year-old Englishman has already been retained by the two-time ISL champions as he signed a one-year extension back in March.

Lalbiakliana Memorial MFA Super Cup 2018 : Chhinga Veng FC retain their crown

23.07.2018: MFA PRESS RELEASE : A second half strike from Lalrammawia proved to be the difference in the Lalbiakliana Memorial MFA Super Cup final as Chhinga Veng FC overcame Chanmari FC to lift the trophy two years in a row. An even match today at Lammual, Aizawl up under damp conditions resulted in both teams finding it hard to conjure up clear cut chances.
Final score:
Chanmari FC 0-1 Chhinga Veng FC (Lalrammawia 66')

When presented with space and time, they were guilty of some wayward finishing as Lalrammawia and MS Dawngliana came close for Chhinga Veng FC while Laldampuia and Lalmuanzova spurned chances for Chanmari FC.The match winning moment came in tne 66th minute when Chanmari FC's goalkeeper Lalruatpuia managed to clear a corner only as far as Lalrammawia who needed no second invitation.

Chanmari FC looked to shake things up after going behind but last season's champions stood their ground till the final whistle to lift their second ever MFA Super Cup trophy.

Prizes:
Champion : Chhinga Veng FC - Rs 1,50,000/- + Trophy
Runner up : Chanmari FC - Rs 50,000/-

Semi Finalists: Rs 15,000/- each
1. Mizoram Police FC 2. Aizawl FC

Quarter Finalists: Rs 6,000/- each
1. Aizawl FC Academy 2. Kanan FC 3. Ramhlun North FC 4. FC Zokhawthar

Round of 16 : Rs 3,500/- each
1. Bethlehem Vengthlang FC 2. Zawlnuam FC 3. East Lungdar 1911 FC 4. Phulpui FC 5. LKS Hnahlan FC 6. Bungkawn FC 7. Armed Veng FC 8. J&S Memorial FC Ratu

Teams in the Round of 32 all awarded a cash prize of Rs. 2000/- each

Awards:
Best Forward: Laldampuia, Chanmari FC, Rs 3,000/-Trophy
Best Midfielder: MS Dawngliana, Chhinga Veng FC, Rs 3,000/-Trophy
Best Defender: PC Laldinpuia, Chhinga Veng FC, Rs 3,000/-Trophy
Best Goalkeeper: Zothanmawia, Chhinga Veng FC, Rs 3,000/-Trophy
Fair Play Award : Aizawl FC, Rs 15,000/- + Trophy

LATE GOALS BREAK HEART FOR INDIA U-16 TEAM AGAINST MALAYSIA

23.07.2018: AIFF PRESS RELEASE : Conceding two late goals at the dying moments and quite a few narrowly-missed opportunities sum up another heart-breaking loss for India U-16 Team who ended up at the receiving end of a 0-3 loss to the Malaysia U-16 Team in Kuala Lumpur today (July 23, 2018).

Indian U-16 boys who have come to Malaysia at the back of a heart-wrenching loss to Thailand last week started showing their intent right from the kick-off. Ridge blasted from inside the box in as early as the fourth minute but the Malaysian keeper took his time to parry it away.

Malaysia, on the other hand, gave the Indian defenders a tough run for the money in their own box. They continued to push constantly but Biaka and the sturdy Indian defenders averted the danger.

Givson and Ridge were looking forward to hurl the opening goal from the counter-attacking opportunities but they could hardly find any hole to breach the Malaysian defence.

Finally, the Malaysia striker Muhd Najmudin slotted their opening goal in the 26th minute to hand his team an advantage against the Indians.

Bibiano Fernandes opted for a couple of change in quick succession and introduced Sailo and Manish at the expenses of Givson and Gurkirat respectively before the boys headed to the changing room with a one-goal deficit to the Malaysians.

Changing over, Bibiano's boys started with great intensity and Ridge, on the turn of the game, hit the side-netting two minutes into the game.

India earned a free-kick in the 55th minute but Bekey failed to keep it within the frame. Three minutes later, He got another chance but miscued it completely.

India created quite a few chances in the last quarter of the game but they were missing the final punch inside the box. Sailo swivelled a long ball to Vikram but the skipper failed to connect it on time whereas two minutes later, Vikram's cross was collected safely by the Malaysian goalkeeper before Ravi could convert it.

But they kept the Malaysian defence on check throughout. Five minutes to the whistle, India earned back-to-back three corners but Bekey's tries could have been dealt in a better way by the Indian attackers inside the box.

As Bibiano Fernandes opted to push more legs inside the opposition half, Malaysian attackers took the advantage and scored a peach of a goal to double their lead in the 88th minute.

Four minutes later, They hurled another attacking move from the left flank which resulted in their third goal to leave the Indian team flabbergasted. India U-16 Team will face the same opponents once again on Thrusday (July 26, 2018)

Sunil Chhetri(MEN) while Kamala Devi (WOMEN) bagged the 2017 AIFF Player of the Year

22.07.2018: AIFF PRESS RELEASE : Mr. Praful Patel, President, All India Football Federation Chaired AIFF’s Executive Committee Meeting held in Mumbai on Sunday (July 22, 2018). Besides, AIFF General Secretary Mr. Kushal Das; Vice Presidents Mr. Subrata Dutta, Mr. Larsing Ming,Mr. KMI Mather, Mr. Manavendra Singh, Treasurer Mr. ZA Thakur, all other members except Mr. AR Khaleel, Mr. Sanjay Behera, Mr. Deepak Kumar, Mr. Lalnghinglova Hmar and Ms. Sara Pilot, attended the meeting.

Mr. Chirag Tanna, representing FSDL attended the meeting as an invitee along with FIFA RDO Mr. Prince Rufus. The Committee strongly condemned Indian Olympic Committe's decision to debar Football teams from participating in the forthcoming Asian Games scheduled to be held in Jakarta.

The Committee also unanimously ratified the 2018-19 Club licensing regulations.

The full list of the 2017 Awards are as follows
===========
2017 AIFF Award for Best Grassroots Development Programme : Kerala FA.
2017 AIFF Award for long-time contribution to Indian Football: Hero Motocorp.
2017 AIFF Award for Best Assistant Referee: Mr. Sumanta Datta (Assam).
2017 AIFF Award for Best Referee: Mr. CR Srikrishna.
2017 AIFF Emerging Woman Footballer of the Year: Ms. E Panthoi.
2017 AIFF Emerging Player of the Year: Mr. Anirudh Thapa.
2017 AIFF Woman Footballer of the Year: Ms. Kamala Devi.
2017 AIFF Player of the Year: Mr. Sunil Chhetri.
============
Meanwhile, in a further effort to curb age-fraud, the TW3 test, which has been accepted by the Supreme Court as an age verification test as well used extensively used by the BCCI, has been implemented by the Committee for all age-group competitions including Club competitions, state tournaments and even National Team competitions. The costs for the tests would be borne by the respective Clubs and State Associations.

Abiding by FIFA regulations, the Committee ratified the use of 5 substitutions in age-group competitions along with an extra substitute if the match is stretched to extra-time.

The Committee also recommended that a standard draft agreement be circulated to the Clubs which will include all clauses which need to be included as per FIFA regulations. However, Clubs would be allowed to use certain variable clauses as an annexure. This will be implemented from the 2019-20 season.

Ms. Roma Khanna apprised the Committee about the updates on AIFF’s Centre of Excellence presently coming up in Kolkata while Mr. Prince Rufus apprised the Committee about the FIFA Forward programme. Based on AIFF two-member Committee’s (Mr. Subrata Dutta and Col. BMR Mehta) visit to Football Association, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, the Committee decided to grant provisional affiliation to Dadra and Nagra Naveli which would later be approved by AIFF’s General Body in the AGM meeting later.

Meanwhile, Sunil Chhetri was declared the 2017 AIFF Player of the Year while Kamala Devi bagged was adjudged the 2017 AIFF Woman Player of the Year. Anirudh Thapa and E Panthoi were adjudged the 2017 Emerging Player and the 2017 Woman Emerging Player of the Year respectively.

Lalbiakliana Memorial MFA Super Cup 2018

21.07.2018: MFA PRESS RELEASE : Holders Chhinga Veng FC need extra-time to seal final place. Reigning champions Chhinga Veng FC will have a chance to retain their crown after seeing off Mizoram Police FC in the second semi-final of the Lalbiakliana Memorial MFA Super Cup played at Lammual, today (20th July).
20th July, 2018 : Mizoram Police FC 2-3 Chhinga Veng FC
Lalrinchhana 20', OG, Lalsangbera 27') ( MS Dawngliana 31'(p), 59', Lalmuansanga 112')

A bright start from a newly invigorated Mizoram Police FC saw them take a two goal lead even before the half hour mark. An own goal from Lalrinchhana and a strike from Lalsangbera gave MPFC an early advantage.

23 July: Final : Chanmari FC vs Chhinga Veng FC

Chhinga Veng FC pulled one back when Lalremruata was brought down inside the penalty area by the Mizoram Police custodian. MS Dawngliana made no mistake in the resulting spot kick.

Last season's treble winners took advantage of the halftime break and found their rhythm early on in the second half. And it wasn't long before they found an equaliser. Lalmawizuala provided the ball for MS Dawngliana to grab his second of the game.

After both sides failed to find a winner inside 90 minutes, it was Chhinga Veng FC who struck again in the second period of extra-time. Lalmuansanga scored the all-important goal to put his side through to the final where they will face Chanmari FC.

Mizoram Football Symposium a success!

21.07.2018: MFA PRESS RELEASE : The Mizoram Football Association held its first ever state-wide football symposium at Chanmari YMA Hall today.

175 representives from the MFA, District FA and Zone FA along with representatives from Mizoram Premier League clubs and the various committees under the MFA attended the conference.

A broad range of subjects regarding the development of football were discussed in the symposium. The chain link between the AIFF-MFA-DFA-Zone FA, newest rules and regulations of football, registration and transfer regulations, coach education, refereeing education, women's football, MFA Technical Rules, futsal, etc. were also studied.

The MFA organised the symposium with the goal of ensuring football bodies move in the same direction to ensure progress of football reaches the farthest corners of the state.

INDIA TO PLAY ‘HISTORIC’ INTERNATIONAL FRIENDLY IN CHINA

20.07.2018: AIFF PRESS RELEASE : NEW DELHI: All India Football Federation confirms its senior National team’s participation in the scheduled FIFA October 2018 window for an International Friendly against China.

The Indian National Team, FIFA ranked 97th (as per June FIFA Rankings ranking) will travel to Beijing to play against the 75th ranked (as per June FIFA Rankings) China national team during the October 8-16, 2018 FIFA window. Though the date for the Friendly will be decided in coming days, AIFF has proposed Saturday, October 13, 2018, as the match day.

India and China historically have each other faced 17 times, all on Indian soil -- the last being 21 years ago for the Nehru Cup in Kochi in 1997. However, recently, the India U-16 National team visited China for an invitational four-nation tournament which also included U-16 Thailand and U-16 DPR Korea.

The October International Friendly assumes huge importance as it will set the pace for India’s preparatory process for the upcoming AFC Asian Cup (January 2019) in UAE.

Terming the occasion as ‘historic,’ All India Football Federation General Secretary Mr. Kushal Das commented: “China and India are today being seen as the two fastest emerging football markets, globally. We are happy to have come to the conclusion of our month-long discussion with the Chinese FA, and I thank our marketing partners FSDL for their involvement and cooperation.”

“The opportunity presents us with an opportunity not just break the two-decade deadlock, but also provides us with a chance to revive the neighbouring rivalry,” he added.

For the record, India are yet to win a match against China. Off the past 17 matches, 12 have gone in favour of China while rest 5 were drawn. However, the Indian National Team has been on an upsurge over the last couple of years, maintaining an unbeaten run of 12 official matches for a span which extended from June 2016 to November 2017.

National Coach Stephen Constantine expressed satisfaction over AIFF’s efforts in scheduling the away tie against China and stated that the team needs to prepare in the best possible fashion for the AFC Asian Cup UAE 2019.

"With an eye on the preparation for the Asian Cup, as a coach, I couldn’t have asked for anything better than an opponent like China. I am sure the boys will make the best of the opportunity presented to us and look forward to test ourselves ahead of the AFC competition.”

The Indian U-20 National Team will leave for Valenica, Spain on July 21, 2018.

20.07.2018: AIFF PRESS RELEASE : The Indian U-20 National Team participating in the U-20 COTIF International Football Tournament will leave for Valenica, Spain on July 21, 2018. The U-20 National team consists of boys who represented India in the FIFA U-17 World Cup India 2017 and the U-19 National Team boys. The team will be playing friendly matches against local clubs on July 23 and July 25 before proceeding to the COTIF Tournament where they take on Argentina U-20, Venezuela U-20, Mauritania U-20 and Murcia U-20.

The India U-20 National Team will be clashing swords with Argentina U-20, Venezuela U-and Mauritania U-20 when the boys travel to Spain to participate in the COTIF Cup – the Mini Mundial Sub U-20 Men’s Football Tournament. The tournament is slated to kick-off on July 29, 2018.Besides, the U-20 boys will also play Murcia U-20, a local side in the tournament.

Furthermore, two players, midfielder Harmanpreet Singh and Jashandeep Singh out of twenty-three short listed players from the Khelo India Project that had appeared for trials at Indian Arrows in Goa have been selected into the final squad for the National Team and will be travelling to Spain as part of the reserves.

The list of the players follows below:

GOALKEEPERS: Prabhsukhan Singh Gill, Vishal Dube, Sachin Suresh.
DEFENDERS: Boris Singh, Sahil Panwar, Anwar Ali, Sanjeev Stalin, Jitendra Singh, Ashis Rai, Deepak Tangri, Narendra, Sumit Rathi.
MIDFIELDERS: Suresh Singh, Ninthoi Meetei, Amarjit Singh, Abhijit Sarkar, Jeakson Singh, Nongdamba Naorem, Rahul K.P, Harmanpreet Singh, Lalengmawia, Jashandeep Singh.
FORWARDS: Rahim Ali, Aniket Jadhav, Aman Chetri.

HEAD COACH: Floyd Pinto

India’s fixtures in the COTIF tournament follow below:
JULY 29: India U-20 vs Murcia U-20.
JULY 31: India U-20 vs Mauritania U-20.
AUGUST 03: India U-20 vs Venezuela U-20.
AUGUST 05: India U-20 vs Argentina U-20.

INDIA U-16 LOSE LEAD AND MATCH

20.07.2018: AIFF PRESS RELEASE : The Indian U-16 National Team currently on an exposure tour in Thailand lost lead and match to go down 1-2 against the U-16 National Team today (July 20, 2018). The Indian colts had surged into the lead in the 18th minute when Vikram Pratap Singh beat the off-side trap to slot home. But the hosts scored two in the second half, the match-winner coming as late as the 89th minute.

The result, in fact, is reminiscent of the last match played between the two teams in China earlier this month when the Indian colts had conceded two in the last three minutes to go down 1-3. It was however, the Indians attacked from the opening minutes and as early as the second minute, they pressed on to the opposition goal, only to be denied by the defence line. In the 9th minute, an Indian free-kick was saved by the Thai custodian.

In the 18th minute, the Indian Colts surged ahead into the lead when Vikram Pratap Singh capitalized on a through ball by Givson and slotted it past the Thai custodian with ease to give India the lead. After stunning the Thai opponents the Indian colts enjoyed a healthy share of possession but despite getting into favourable positions, they failed to capitalise on the lead.

In the 28thminute Vikram’s shot off a Shabas cross was easily saved by the Thai goalkeeper. Although Thailand attacked and threatened the Indian defence line, the colts stood firm and saw out rare shots from distance. The half-time score-line read 1-0 in India’s favour.

The second half started on a slow note but Thailand had better of the exchanges and almost found the net in the 51st minute but were denied by the Biaka, the Indian custodian. In the 68th minute, the Thai opponents restored parity, heading it in off a corner.

In the 80th minute, the Indian colts upped the ante. Givson’s shot earned a save from the Thai custodian and shortly after Gurkirat shot wide of goal as the Indians pressed to regain the lead. In the 82nd minute, substitute Rohit Danu shot over the bar from inside the box. But Thailand, much against the run of play managed to score the winner in the 89th minute.

The Indian U-16 National Team next travel to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to play the Malaysian U-16 National Team in two friendly matches, the first of which is slated for July 23, 2018.

MIZORAM FOOTBALL: Lalbiakliana Memorial MFA Super Cup 2018

20.07.2018: MFA PRESS RELEASE : Chanmari FC defeat Aizawl FC to seal a place in the final. Chanmari FC needed extra-time goals from Laldampuia and Lalmuanzova to rise above rivals Aizawl FC to book their place in the Lalbiakliana Memorial MFA Super Cup. The semi final was played at Lammual ground, Aizawl on 19th July.
SCORE : PM Aizawl FC (3-4) Chanmari FC
(Lalchhuanawma Varte 34', David Lalrinmuana 68', Jonathan Lalrawngbawla 115') (Laldampui 20', (p) 110', R Lalawmpuia 39', Lalmuanzova 101')

It was goals galore in the battle of former MPL champions with Chanmari FC taking the lead in the 20th minute from Laldampuia's spot kick. The lead lasted only fourteen minutes however as Lalchhuanawma Varte equalised for Aizawl FC.
July 20, Friday semi-final fixture
2:00 PM Mizoram Police FC vs Chhinga Veng FC
R. Lalawmpuia struck six minutes before halftime to give Chanmari FC the lead again but a David Lalrinmuana strike in the second half led to the game needing the extra 30 minutes. Two goals in nine minutes in the first period of extra-time from Laldampuia and Lalmuanzova was enough to ensure victory for Chanmari FC despite a late goal from Jonathan Lalrawngbawla.

Chanmari FC will battle either Mizoram Police FC or Chhinga Veng FC in the final.

VEDANTA’S SESA FOOTBALL ACADEMY secures AIFF Accreditation

20.07.2018: SESA PRESS RELEASE : Coming close on the heels of World Cup fever, football development in Goa just became more exciting. Taking forward the Vedanta Group’s vision in equipping participants with skills in sports in technical and non-technical areas of development, and achieving the milestone of being the best football academy in India by 2019,Vedanta’s SESA Football Academy is proud to announce its AIFF Accreditation which now enables SFA to participate in the U13, U15 and the U18 Youth Leagues in the coming season.

Expressing his gratitude and happiness on the academy’s new recognition in the sporting arena, President, SESA Football Academy, Mr Annanya Agarwal said, “Sports can inspire and engage youth in a tremendous way and we at SFA envision to provide a platform to young budding footballers& equipping them with A – level facilities and achieving the milestone of being the best football academy in India by 2019. I am very pleased and grateful to receive the AIFF accreditation for the academy and look forward to see our U – 13, U- 15 and U-18 teams make SFA proud in the coming Youth leagues’’

CEO, I – League, Mr. Sunando said, ‘Goa is a talent pool for the football community in India and SFA has been doing some great work to take the Goan legacy forward by grooming young budding football talent, it is good to see these players get such amazing guidance and facilities. I would like to congratulate SFA on receiving the AIFF accreditation and hope to see some good football from them in the coming Youth League’

For aspiring young football sporting talent in Goa, this accreditation is a major shot in the arm for SESA Football Academy. The U -13 team would be created purely from the Vedanta Football Schools program, making it a 100% in-house grown team from the grassroots program. The U-15 team would be from the residential academy in Sankhali fully made up of Goan talent. While the U-18 team will continue to scout talent from Goa, as well as from across 7 different states in the country.

India U-20 National Team will participate in the COTIF Cup - Spain

AIFF PRESS RELEASE 17.07.2018 : The India U-20 National Team will be clashing swords with Argentina U-20, Venezuela U-and Mauritania U-20 when the boys travel to Spain to participate in the COTIF Cup – the Mini Mundial Sub U-20 Men’s Football Tournament. The tournament is slated to kick-off on July 29, 2018. Besides, the U-20 boys will also play Murcia U-20, a local side in the tournament.

Abhishek Yadav, Director, National Teams said AIFF has drawn up a template where all National teams will be playing International competitions in addition to their domestic schedule. “The COTIF tournament in Spain falls well into our plans and we are excitedly looking forward to it. The Sub20 category, India will be up against teams from renowned football powerhouses that will be preparing for the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2019 qualifiers,” he said.

“For the development of all National Teams across age-groups, we have drawn up a template in which playing matches on a regular basis has been given high weight,” Yadav, also an AIFF Executive Committee member informed. “In an ideal mix, in addition to domestic competitive matches, we will participate in competitions involving AFC opposition, non-AFC opposition, matches against higher-age teams, in different playing conditions, etc.”

“We are pushing the envelope. We have done this with the U-17 World Cup team and are doing it with the U-16 boys' National Team as well. We will soon extend it to the Female national teams and a fresh U1-5 boys' National Team,” he stated. The U-20 National Team will comprise of boys who represented India in the FIFA U-17 World Cup India 2017 and boys who represented India in the AFC U-19 Qualifiers in 2017.

India’s fixtures in the COTIF tournament follow below:
JULY 29: India U-20 vs Murcia U-20.
JULY 31: India U-20 vs Mauritania U-20.
AUGUST 03: India U-20 vs Venezuela U-20.
AUGUST 05: India U-20 vs Argentina U-20.

INDIA U-16 COME FROM TWO GOALS DOWN TO PLAY OUT A DRAW AGAINST BANGKOK GLASS FC U-17

PRESS RELEASE BY AIFF : 17.07.2018 : The Indian U-16 National Team currently on an exposure tour in Thailand came from two goals down to play out a 2-2 draw against U-17 Bangkok Glass FC today (July 17, 2018). Trailing much of the match, the Colts put in a superb attacking performance in the last ten minutes of the match and scored twice, courtesy of strikes by Ricky (83’) and Ravi (86’), to finish the match on level pegging.

Coming on the back of a 0-2 win over Buriram United U-17, the Indian Colts were slow off the blocks and the opponents capitalized on that. As early as the 3rd minute, the opponents tested the Indian custodian and once again hovered around the Indian box in the 11th minute when a free-kick was thwarted by the Indian wall.

In the 21st minute, Bangkok Glass FC took the lead and doubled it shortly after in the 24th minute to make the scoreline read 2-0. Stunned, the Indian colts looked to minimize the deficit and in the 30thminute Harpreet’s rasping header missed the goal by inches.

Four minutes later, Bhuvnesh failed to make the most out of a Ridge D’Mello cross. The half-time scoreline read 2-0 in the opponents’ favour. Changing over, the Indian U-16s pressed and in the 54th minute, the opposition custodian saved Vikram Pratap Singh’s shot as the colts kept the attacking momentum. In the 64th minute, Shabas found Ridge D’Mello in the box but the latter’s shot was saved by the opposition goalkeeper. A minute later, Givson’s shot earned the same treatment.

The young colts had the best opportunity of the match in the 74th minute when Vikram Pratap Singh’s shot hit the woodwork from close range after Rohit Danu’s attempt was thwarted by the opposition custodian. In the 83rd minute, Ricky found the net for the Indian U-16s and reduced the deficit as the scoreline read 2-1. Three minutes later, Ravi found the net for India and equalized the deficit as the scoreline read 2-2.

Although with attacking momentum on their side, the Indian Colts pressed for the decisive goal, but with time running out could not foster it. The full-time scoreline read 2-2. The Indian U-16 National Team clashes swords against Thailand U-16 National Team next on July 20, 2018.

GFA HAILS MS. MARIA REBELLO FOR ASIAN GAMES CALL

PRESS RELEASE BY GFA : 16.07.2018 : The Goa Football Association has congratulated Ms. Maria Rebello for being selected as a Technical Assessor in the Women's Football Competition at the Asian Games, which will be held in Jakarta and Palembang in Indonesia. The GFA President Mr.

Elvis Gomes broke the news of Ms. Maria's selection at a especially convened meeting in connection with the organization of the 2nd Edition of the GFA Vedanta Women's League. Mr. Gomes said "It is a matter of great honour that Ms. Maria Rebello is the only match official from India to be appointed by the AFC for the Asian Games." He further said that Ms. Rebello serves as an inspiration to other women footballers and officials for achieving so much through the game of football.

Meanwhile, the Women's League Organizing Committee decided to launch the league with the addition of three teams namely Ambelim Sports Club, Churchill Brothers Sports Club, and Goan Football Club to make it a 8-team league after the withdrawal of Santa Cruz Club of Cavelossim. The other teams in the league are Panjim Footballers, Sporting Clube de Goa, Goa-Velha Sports Club, Cuncolim Union, and Albert Developers Sports Club. It was decided that the last date for the registration of the Players will be 20.07.2018 after which the Players draft will be conducted on 25.07.2018. The league launch will be held on 27.07.2018 after which the league will commence by the end of the month.

Among others present were Derrick Pereira, Prakash Dessai, Victor Fernandes, Anthony Vas, John Silva, Angelo Albuquerque, Melroy D'Silva, Girijadevi Dessai, representing their respective clubs and Maria Rebello,Arnaldo Costa, Sukhwinder Singh, Melroy Moura, Welvin Menezes representing the GFA and Sponsors respectively. Goa Football Association

A letter herewith sent by Mr. Swapan Sadhan Bose (Tutu) to Mr. Anjan Kumar Mitra which speaks for itself.

PRESS RELEASE BY SRINJY BOSE : 16.07.2018 :

CONSTANTINE SUMMONS 4 U-17 WORLD CUP PLAYERS FOR SAFF CHAMPIONSHIP CAMP

AIFF PRESS RELEASE - 16.07.2018 : Four U-19 players who represented India in the FIFA U-17 World Cup India 2017 have been summoned by National Coach Stephen Constantine for the preparatory camp for the SAFF Championship. The four U-19 players ------ Prabhsukhan Singh Gill, Suresh Singh Wangjam, Rahim Ali and Rahul KP -- all of whom are part of AIFF’s developmental team Indian Arrows will be reporting to the Camp in Delhi from July 28 onwards, along with 30 others.

Among the others, 29 are current U-23 players with Sumeet Passi being the sole senior player (above 23) named in the list of 34 probables. India, the defending champions, have been clubbed in Group B along with Maldives and Sri Lanka and play their first match against Sri Lanka in Bangladesh (venue not yet announced) on September 6. The final is slated on September 15. Constantine stressed it’s important to see whether the youngsters are up to the challenge or not

"We are always looking down to the age groups to see if these players can make the step up the ladder. I have always put a great deal of importance on the youth and have stuck to the same philosophy -- this camp is no different. Quite a few youngsters have been provided with a chance to prove their worth,” he added. "Heading to a tournament with such a young team is going to be a challenge but that's what we want. We want to find out that particular player who can push the extra bit to achieve the desired result, who can take up the extra responsibility to force himself into the team

The list of 34 probables stay as follow

GOALKEEPERS : Vishal Kaith, Toufik Kabir, Kamaljit Singh, Prabhsukhan Singh Gill.

DEFENDERS: Nishu Kumar, Umesh Perambhara, Davinder Singh, Chinglensana Singh, Salam Ranjan Singh, Sarthak Golui, Lalruatthara, Subhasish Bose, Jerry Lalrinzuala.

MIDFIELDERS: Nikhil Poojary, Isaac Vanmalswama, S Nandha Kumar, Udanta Singh, Vinit Rai, Germanpreet Singh, Anirudh Thapa, Rohit Kumar, Suresh Singh Wangjam, Arjun Jayaraj, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Ashique Kuruniyan, Vignesh D, Rahim Ali.

FORWARDS: Sumit Passi, Daniel Lalhlimpuia, Hitesh Sharma, Alen Deory, Manvir Singh, Kivi Zhimomi, Rahul KP.

HEAD COACH: Stephen Constantine.

MOHUN BAGAN ANNOUNCE Names for Mohun Bagan Ratna on Mohun Bagan Day 2018

MB e-mail PRESS RELEASE - 16.07.2018 :

TWENTY SELECTED FOR INDIAN U-17 WOMEN'S TEAM FOR BRICS U-17 FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT

AIFF PRESS RELEASE - 13.07.2018 : Following the Indian U-17 Women’s National Team Camp in the capital that commenced from July 01, 2018, twenty players have been selected for the Indian U-17 National Team that will participate in the BRICS U-17 Football Tournament in Johannesburg, South Africa.

The Indian U-17s will face the likes of Brazil, Russia, hosts South Africa and China in the BRICS U-17 Football Tournament and according to Head Coach Shukla Dutta, “the tournament will help in the evolution of the players”

“Playing against tough opponents is always a welcomed challenge for any players as it aids in the development. We will face against some of the best teams in the world and give our cent percent on the pitch”, Dutta said.

The list of the selected players follows below:

GOALKEEPERS : Monika Devi, Khushi Chanu, Archana A.

DEFENDERS: Pavitra Murugesan, Eva Panna, Sushmita Tannty, Papki Devi, Shanthi Murmu.

MIDFIELDERS: Grace Lalrampari, Debinita Roy, Bannaya Kabiraj, Samiksha, Babysana Devi.

FORWARDS: Santhiya, Vanlahriattiti, Karishma Rai, Manisha, Souyma Guguloth, Karishma Shirvoikar, Renu.

HEAD COACH: Shukla Dutta

RESULTS ANNOUNCED FOR AFC A CERTIFICATE COURSE

AIFF PRESS RELEASE - 13.07.2018 : Five candidates out of fourteen, who appeared for the AFC A Certificate Course, have successfully passed the course. The AFC A Certificate Course was conducted in two Modules and Module 1 was conducted from November 08-21, 2017 and Module 2 was conducted from February 21, 2018 to March 04, 2018 in Siliguri.

The successful candidates are mentioned below -

1. Richard Garcia
2. Crispin Chettri
3. Sameer S Shaikh
4. Sanjoy Kumar Dey
5. Rajan M

EAST BENGAL ARE IN PARTNERSHIP WITH QUESS CORP

KFC NEWS DESK - 05.07.2018 : East Bengal club officially announced the name of thier new partner Quess Corp Ltd, after breaking ties with United Breweries two months back. Quess Corp is a ten year old Bangaluru based leading business provider with a almost 2.5 billion dollar turnover. The company is listed on Bombay Stock Exchange with a business span in almost 75 countries.

In a press release Quest Corp Ltd today announced, We wish to inform you that the Company today (i.e., July 05, 2018) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the East Bengal Club (EBC), a premier 98-year-old iconic football club based out of Kolkata. Quess and East Bengal Club have proposed to set up a new Joint Venture (JV) entity Quess East Bengal FC Pvt. Ltd. This partnership is intended to strengthen the branding initiatives of Quess as it goes out to build multiple platforms in the services space. The partnership will help Quess to improve its brand awareness and at the same time also contribute to sports participation and the development of football in the country."

In a city hotel at Kolkata the deal was finally signed between East Bengal and Quess Corp Ltd to form Quess East Bengal Football Club. While talking to the media Dr Pranab Das Gupta, the President of East Bengal said that the marriage between East Bengal and Quess Corp will never lead to a divorce. It is a memorable and historic moment that a company which has a business in almost 75 counties are now tied up with East Bengal.

Ajit Isaac,the CMD of Quess crp while in his massage said,The partnership with EBFC provide exactly this and we are excited by the possibility of contributing to the development of world's no.1 sport - "Football" in India and at the same time to be invested in one of the best sports properties. Sports and business both produce winners when the partnerships are right and the investments are prudent. The sporting activities of the club will gather pace now with efforts to join the ISL as well as to enhance the player base, training capacity and infrastructure required to achieve more sporting trophies".

In his address QEBFC Managing Director, Kalyan Majumdar, said, We are happy and excited with this partnership with the Quess brand and together we are hopeful of building India's best Football Club. The association with Quess is promising and brings a refreshing change for the club and its members and fans with many untapped possibilities. We believe our best is yet to come and we now aim to achieve new landmarks in the game of Football."

According to the sources the deal is for ten years, but nothing regarding the deal and term is being announced by East Bengal and Quess Corp Ltd officials.

Tata Football Academy holds 12th Convocation

TFA PRESS RELEASE - 05.07.2018 : The convocation ceremony of the 13th batch of cadets of the Tata Football Academy (TFA) was held today at the Michael John Auditorium at Jamshedpur. Nineteen cadets from seven States celebrated their graduation from the academy after a four-year residential training course designed to develop their potential to the fullest.

Mr T V Narendran, CEO & MD, Tata Steel, graced the occasion as Chief Guest while Professor Nazm Ansari, President, Jharkhand Football Association, was the Guest of Honour on the occasion. The graduating cadets have represented the country in various age-group tournaments while five among them have represented the Jharkhand State team. The batch has achieved the following in last four years:

Winners: IFA Shield - 2016 // Tata Utkalika Football Tournament // JSA League - 2016
Runners-up: U18 I League Kolkata

Sixteen cadets from the team will now be playing for the Jamshedpur Football Club Reserve, while one player will join the main JFC team. Two others will play for other professional teams. Mr Narendran handed over the passing-out certificates and mementoes to the cadets in the presence of other senior dignitaries from Tata Steel and TFA.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Narendran said: “In Tata Steel, sports has been a way of life. My congratulations to all the graduating cadets. To me, it is not about playing football, but playing it well. You are the ambassadors of Tata Football Academy (TFA). This year, we have launched the Jamshedpur Football Club and have received great support from the community. There is a lot of talent over here, we just need to provide opportunities", he added.

In his address, Mr Ansari said: “We are very proud of having TFA in the State of Jharkhand and we will not leave any stone unturned in providing our support. Let us fly high”. Addressing the gathering, Mr Sunil Bhaskaran, Chairman, Board of Management, Tata Football Academy, and Vice President, Corporate Services, Tata Steel, said: “We will nurture football talent and aim to create superb professionals for Indian Football”.

Addressing the cadets, Mr Udanta Singh, ex-TFA player who is currently associated with Bengaluru FC, said: “Your career starts now. Play well”. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has recognised TFA’s contribution and honoured it with an award for its `Continuous Contribution to Indian Football’. This is a first-of-its-kind recognition to any institution by AIFF.

The basic objective of Tata Football Academy (TFA) is to provide the mainstream of national football with a perennial pool of young footballers trained and oriented to international standards. Budding talent is scouted from across the country in the age group of 14 years, trained for four years and fed to the mainstream after graduation and at the expiry of a conditional contract, to seek a career in professional football.

Unique in Asia, the Academy is geared to moulding tomorrow’s winners – a dynamic new breed of footballers – dedicated to performing at international levels of excellence, who embody within themselves the promise of success. The Tata Football Academy was inaugurated in 1987. A total of 213 cadets have graduated from TFA till date, out of which 141 cadets have represented the country. Twenty-four cadets have captained the Indian football team in various age-group tournaments.

The following cadets have graduated today:

1. Yendrembam Naresh
2. Subham Ghosh
3. Billu Teli
4. MD Firoz Khan
5. Swarup Das
6. Rakesh Yadav
7. Vishal Das
8. Mobashir Rahman
9. Parveen
10. Ashish Pradhan
11. Harsha Parui
12. Md Rafique Ali Sardar
13. Srinjoy Dutta
14. Baset Hansdah
15. Karandeep
16. Prakash Naik
17. Vijay Kumar
18. Thiyam Shrivash Singh
19. Lara

INDIAN FOOTBALL TEAMS NOT ALLOWED TO PARTICIPATE IN ASIAN GAMES DUE TO IOA MYOPIC VISION

01.08.2018 AIFF PRESS RELEASE : Despite explaining to the Indian Olympic Association that Football as a global sport needs to be looked at differently, and after having explained the tremendous success that Indian Football has achieved in the last three years which include a jump in FIFA Rankings from 173 to 97 (at present), qualification to the AFC Asian Cup UAE 2019, the successful hosting of FIFA U-17 World Cup India 2017 and the various grassroots and youth developmental programmes undertaken by the AIFF, the IOA chose not to clear Indian Football Teams for the forthcoming Asian Games.

The Indian men’s football team is ranked 97th in the world and 14th in Asia, whereas the women’s team, placed 60th in the world, are 13th in the continent.

In this regard Mr. Praful Patel, President, AIFF even made a call to Mr. Narinder Batra to explain the circumstances, and accordingly letters were sent to Mr. Rajeev Mehta, Secretary General, IOA and Mr. Lalit Bhanot, Chairman, Preparation Committee, Asian Games.

However, disregarding all facts, the IOA chose to stick to its original stance of sending teams ranked between 1-8 to take part, thus turning a blind eye to Indian Football in the Continental Games. It’s clear the IOA lacks the vision and competence to understand that Football is a global sport played by 212 countries and that the top 5 teams in Asia play in the FIFA World Cup where the level of competition is far superior to the Asian Games.

In fact, the premier football competition in Asia is the AFC Asian Cup where India has qualified after 8 years. IOA’s stance and myopic view comes in sharp contrast to the support of both the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and Sports Authority of India, both of whom who have been hugely supportive of Indian Football and recognised AIFF’s efforts in the last 3 years.

It is indeed a sad state of affairs for sport in India that the IOA is unable to distinguish the specific needs of each sport in the country. The IOA was never even bothered to even once discuss with the AIFF the strategy and plans for developing football in India.