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GOLDEN BOOT: ROY KRISHNA OR IGOR ANGULO

11.3.21: The striker of ATK Mohun Bagan, Roy Krishna is in front of a mile stone of winning the 'GOLDEN BOOT' in the current edition of Indian Super League. At the end of the second semifinal, Roy Krishna of ATK Mohun Bagan and Igor Angulo of FC Goa had scored 14 goals from 21 matches.

Roy Krishna is in front of a history if he can score a goal in the final against Mumbai City FC. FC Goa lost against Mumbai City in the semifinal. So Igor's tally of scoring ends in 14 goals. But if Roy Krishna fails to score in the final, then Igor Angulo of FC Goa will enjoy the advantage of playing a match less in the tournament and will be hounered with the award.

GOLDEN GLOVES: ARINDAM OR AMRINDER

Arindam Bhattacharjee of ATK Mohun Bagan and Amrinder Singh of Mumbai City FC is in the race of winning the 'GOLDEN GLOVES' in the 7th edition of ISL. As ATK Mohun Bagan and Mumbai City are the finalist of the tournament, so both the goal keepers will have the opportunity to prove themselves in the final on Saturday.

Arindam Bhattacharjee is leading the contest by conceding goals in a gap of 113.13 minutes, with 10 clean sheets. He is followed by Amrinder Singh who has 10 clean sheets and conceded goals in a gap of 100.5 minutes.

Undoughtly, it will be a competetive final for both the goal keepers.

WE ARE THINKING OF REVENGE AGAINST MUMBAI IN THE FINAL:WILLAMS

10.3.21: ATK Mohun Bagan after a dramatic fight against North East United in the semifinal are now preparing to face Mumbai City FC in the final of the 7th edition of Indian Super League.

Though, this is the first entry in the ISL final after the tie up between ATK and Mohun Bagan. But, ATK had a rich history in the ISL finals. ATK qualified to play in the final in the year 2014-15, 2016-17, 2019-20 and were the champions.

ATK Mohun Bagan will start practice for the final from Thursday onwards under the most successful coach in ISL, Antonio Habas. Many footballers, of course, went to the gymnasium to keep themselves fit on Wednesday.
David Willams the attacking midfielder of ATK Mohun Bagan scored goals in both the semi finals against North East United FC. In an exclusive interview with the club media David Willams shared his thoughts before the final against Mumbai City.
DAVID WILLAMS are of the opinion that two best teams of the tournament will play in the final. While interacting Willams said, "The best two teams of the league are playing in the final. In both the matches of the league, we could not win against Mumbai. Maybe that is why some are thinking of revenge and some thinking of the trophy. I also want to win the trophy and I am taking the best preparation. We have to keep the focus right. Only then we can become the champion."

Willams reminds that when he score, ATK Mohun Bagan does not lose the game. He said,"When I score, the team does not lose the game. This statistic is very good. That's why I want to score more goals for the team. Maybe we could have won on Tuesday with more goals but that is now past. Now we are only thinking about the final match." David Willams son, Hugo told him to have a fun-filled celebration after scoreing a goal. Willams, after scoring the goal in the semifinal, he had put his finger in his mouth and ran towards the TV camera keeping his tongue out. David Willams will continue to celebrate in the same fashion if he scores a goal in the final on Saturday evening.

WE WILL UTILISE THE OPPORTUNITY TO PLAY IN CHAMPIONS LEAGUE: PRITAM

26.2.21: ATK Mohun Bagan are already qualified for the playoff stages in the seventh edition of Indian Super League. The Mariners are at the pole of the League table with 40 points at the end of the 19 round of the competition.

The prime task of ATK Mohun Bagan is to earn a point against Mumbai City FC in order to qualify for the AFC Champions League. The Mariners are preparing under Antonio Habas since Tuesday. The important footballers of the squad David Willams and Pritam Kotal spoke regarding the preparation before the important match.

While interacting with the club media DAVID WILLAMS said,"Is is a very important and a big match not only for our club, but for all the players. Like the last six matches, we have to get a positive result in the Mumbai match as well. Only then the dream will come true. We will not play for a draw. We will play on Sunday to win. That is how we are preparing.”match.

David Willams is not concerned about Mumbai City FC's performance in the previous, he said,"I don't want to worry about whom Mumbai scored six goals against. I am not giving importance to that. We will beat Mumbai and that is the challenge. If we being at the top of the league table or that the goal can be achieved with a draw, anyone thinks that we are in an advantageous position, is wrong. "

"To play keeping that in mind means to get defeated. What we're doing on the field on Sunday will be the factor. We have to stick to the strategy of scoring goals by keeping our target intact. It is proved that our team has the mentality to fight till the last minute and bring out the best in the match.” - He added.

PRITAM KOTAL feels that we should utilise the golden opportunity to play in AFC Champions League. While inteacting Pritam said, "Before the start of ISL, we had two aims, first, to be the champion and second, to get the passport to play in the AFC Champions League. We have created a golden opportunity to play in the Champions League and only one point is needed. But in the Mumbai match we will not play for one point. We will go to the field thinking of winning. We are confident of winning this match."

The match will be played at GMC stadium, Bambolim at 7.30 PM.

ROY KRISHNA DEDICATE THE SUCCESS TO THE GREEN & MAROON FANS

20.2.21: After winning the second Derby against the arch rivals, the footballers of ATK Mohun Bagan returned to the team hotel from the Jawharlal Nehuru stadium singing in the team bus. It was an eventful match for the Mariners to win two consecutive Derby in the seventh edition of Indian Super League. ATK Mohun Bagan dominated all through the match never allowed their rivals SC East Bengal to create any danger and finally won by a margin of 3-1.

The excitement of winning the Kolkata Derby ended with the song and from Saturday onwards ATK Mohun Bagan started preparing for the next match against Hyderabad FC which is scheduled on the 22nd of February.

The striker of ATK Mohun Bagan, Roy Krishna played an important role against SC East Bengal on Friday night. Krishna not only scored the first goal of the match, but he was instrumental for the other two goals scored by David Willams and Xavi Hernandez. In an exclusive interview with the ATK Mohun Bagan media, Roy Krishna said, " Friday derby win will be one of the most memorable events of my footballer's life. Not for own goal, goal passes or the man of the match, but for the Green-Maroon fans. I know how eager they were for this match. They put their heart, passion and everything at stake for this match, for the team. It feels good to be able to put a smile on their face. That's why I want to dedicate all my Derby success to the supporters."

Regarding his performance in the current edition of the tournament Roy Krishna said, "Getting goals in six consecutive matches is not new to me. I have done it a few times before. It feels good to be able to maintain that continuity. Feeling more confident. We will play another tough match on Monday. We are ready to win the match by scoring goal like other matches.”

The Fijian striker Roy Krishna is the contender of winning the 'Golden Boot'. As he said,"Every time at the start of the season, I take an oath to be better than my previous performance. This time my goal is to break the record of last time of fifteen goals. Any goal is the result of team solidarity. I see this goal as a bonus. I hope I can meet my target after the end of the competition. Some more goals will be written next to the name as the goal scorer."

The main target of ATK Mohun Bagan to stay at the top of the league table to get a direct berth in AFC Champions league in the next season.

WE HELPED ATK MOHUN BAGAN TO WIN : TONY GRANT

19.2.21: The dream of SC East Bengal in their maiden appearance of Indian Super League are almost over. They are not a contender for the playoff stages. Their last target is to gain back some pride by winning the Derby against ATK Mohun Bagan on Friday night. The performance of Red and Gold against the Mariners were far beyond expectation and finally had to welcome a defeat by a magin of 1-3.

SC East Bengal's Assistant coach Tony Grant in the post match press conference admits that his teams helped the opposition to win. While answering Tony Grant said "I don't think the opposition did much to win the game. I think we helped them. Both teams cancelled each other out. There wasn’t much great football played by both teams... There was a lot at stake. It was a big game but I would not say that it was the worst game."

SC East Bengal will play the remaining two games against North East United and Odisha FC.

THE ARCH RIVALS TO MEET IN ISL DERBY

18.2.21: The two arch rivals of Indian football, ATK Mohun Bagan and SC East Bengal will clash against each other in an important match of Indian Super League on Friday evening.

The two iconic clubs are playing Derby since last one hundred years.It will be the second round League match of the seventh edition of ISL but, the Derby on Friday evening is significant in a different ways. The dream of qualifying in the playoff stages are already over for Red and Gold. They need to win the Derby and the remaining two league matches against North East United and Odisha FC in order to consolidate their position in the league table.



ATK MOHUN BAGAN & SC EAST BENGAL(HEAD TO HEAD)
TOTAL MATCHES PLAYED: 372
SC EAST BENGAL WON : 129
ATK MOHUN BAGAN WON: 121
DRAWN: 122

On the contrary, ATK Mohun Bagan are at the top of the league table with 36 points already qualified for the playoff matches. The Mariners eye are on the AFC Champions League for which they need to win all the three remaining matches in order to qualify. The top team in the League stages of ISL will qualify for a direct group stage entry in the AFC Champions League next season.

ATK MOHUN BAGAN (7TH EDITION)
TOTAL MATCHES PLAYED: 17
WON: 11
LOST: 3
DRAWN: 3
GOAL SCORED: 23
GOAL CONCEDED: 10
POINTS: 36
SC East Bengal will miss Robbie Fowler, the Head coach in the dugout for a four match suspension imposed by All India Football Federation. The position of the Assistant coach Tony Grant is not clear as he was showcased by AIFF. SC East Bengal has had a tough time in the tournament in their maiden entry in Indian Super League. Though some improvements were observed in the last few games especially in the central defense. But Sc East Bengal are still in search of a positive scorer even after the inclusion of Bright Enobakhare. The Red and Gold had conceded some unnecessary goals at the dying minutes which lead them to share points with the oppornants. Moreover, some decisions of the match Supervisors went against them at the crucial stages.

SC EAST BENGAL(7TH EDITION)
TOTAL MATCHES PLAYED: 17
WON: 3
LOST: 6
DRAWN: 8
GOAL SCORED: 15
GOAL CONCEDED: 22
POINTS: 17
ATK Mohun Bagan are already at the playoff stages, desperately needs a win to remain as the table toppers till the last league match. The Mariners are in the habit of scoring in every match as Roy Krishna and Manvir Singh really proved their class during the course of the tournament. These two footballers scored in the first Derby of ISL in the 27th of November. The inclusion of Marcelo Periara and Lenny Rodrigues in the squad do yeild results in the last few matches.

The match will kick off at the Jawharlal Nehru stadium, Fatorda at 7.30PM.

KERALA BLASTERS AND KIBU VICINA PARTED WAYS

17.2.21:Kerala Blaster FC, the team of Indian Super League parted ways with their Head coach Kibu Vicuna after their match against Hyderabad FC on Tuesday night. Sources said, the team management of Kerala Blasters FC decided to part away with the Head coach after the teams defeat against Hyderabad FC by a margin of 4-0, which ends all hopes to qualify in the play off stages.

Kibu Vicuna joined Kerala Blasters FC this season replacing Elco Schattorie. Kibu has had a successful season last year with Mohun Bagan where he was responsible for the I League victory of the Mariners. Kibu Vicuna had to leave after the merger of Mohun Bagan and ATK.

Kerala Blasters are now placed at the 10th position in the ISL League table with 16 points from 18 matches. Kerala Blasters FC had won 3, lost 7 and face defeat in 8 matches. Kerala Blasters conceded 33 goals which is maximum by any team in the current years competetion.

ARINDAM AND PRITAM WANTS TO WIN THE REMAINING MATCHES

16.2.21: The second Derby of the Indian Super League between the two arch rivals of Indian football, ATK Mohun Bagan and SC East Bengal will be played on the 19th of February at the Pandit Jawharlal Nehru stadium, Fatorda.

ATK Mohun Bagan are at the top of the league table with 36 points, already qualified for the play off stages. Though the main target of ATK Mohun Bagan is to qualify for the Asian Champions League.

On the contrary, SC East Bengal had a tough competition in their maiden appearance are with 17 points at the end of the 17 round.

The two important footballers of ATK Mohun Bagan squad, goalkeeper Arindam Bhattacharjee and wing back Pritam Kotal expressed their views before the Derby to the club media.

While interacting Arindam Bhattachaejee said, "In order to qualify for the Asian Champions League, being at the top of the league table, we have to win this match. We are not willing to give extra importance to this match. If this match had taken place in Yuba Bharati, a different situation would have been created. There will be no supporters here. As a result, I will play this match with a strong mind.”

Arindam are of the opinion that ATK Mohun Bagan will play the Derby in a free mind as they are already qualified for the Derby. The goalkeeper of ATK Mohun Bagan said, "We have no pressure. There will be pressure on SC East Bengal because they no longer have a chance to go to the playoffs. If they don't do something good in the derby, there will be nothing left. That's why I know they will be desperate. But we are also ready. We are more organized now than in the first phase. The team is much stronger now with the addition of Marcelinho and Lenny. I am sure that we will be able to return to the dressing room after winning the match by keeping the goal intact.”

Pritam Kotal feels that SC East Bengal are an organised team now as compared to the first Derby which was played on November. As Pritam was answering to the club media, he said, "I don't think it will be easy to win in the second phase as we won easily in the first phase because a lot has changed for the two teams. East Bengal is very organized now. Bright has joined their team. We have Marcelinho-Lenny. But just as they have Bright, we also have Roy Krishna. Roy looks brighter than last year. Apart from that, Manvir, Marcelinho and David are also helping him. Roy is now at the forefront to be the top scorer. It will put pressure on any opponent."

Pritam Kotal said that ATK Mohun Bagan's target is to win the remaining matches in the League stages."We are not willing to look at whether Mumbai has won or lost a match. Our goal is to win the remaining three matches of the league. Derby has a special significance for any Bengali player. I am not out of it either. I played number of times wearing Green-Maroon jersey. As a result, I know the importance of this match for the members and supporters. And this time we are going to play this match from the top of the league. There is no pressure. We will win if we play the way we are playing.”

ATK Mohun Bagan are now preparing for the Derby from today after a holiday on Monday.

ROBBIE FOWLER AND TONY GRANT SHOWCASED BY DISCIPLINARY COMMITTEE

15.2.21: The Head coach of SC East Bengal Robbie Fowler and Assistant Coach Tony Grant has been Show Caused by the All India Football Federation Disciplinary Committee in different cases.

Robbie Fowler, the Head Coach of SC East Bengal are already under four matches suspension imposed by the Disciplinary Committee of All India Football Fedaration. It has been stated in Press release issued by ISL Media that Robbie Fowler was show caused by the All India Football Federation Disciplinary Committee for use of abusive language (in a post-game altercation against Hyderabad FC players) in their Hero ISL match played on 12th February, Friday at Tilak Maidan.

Tony Grant, the Assistant coach of SC East Bengal has been Show Caused for 'making derogatory comments against both Match Officials and Hyderabad FC Head Coach' in the post-match press conference.

Robbie Fowler should respond within the 18th of February, while Tony Grant will have to answer the quires of Disciplinary Committee within 2pm of 17th February.

Importantly, SC East Bengal will play against ATK Mohun Bagan on the 19th of February in the second Derby of Indian Super League.

FSDL ANNOUNCES THE DATES OF SEMIFINAL & FINAL

The final of the seventh edition of Indian Super League will be played on the 13th of March at the Jawharlal Nehru stadium, Fatorda. This was announced by Football Sports Development Limited in a Press Release.

The dates of semifinals and the return legs as well as the venews are finalised by FSDL.

ISL 2020-21 PLAYOFF DATES:
Friday, March 5 - Semi-final 1 – 1st leg
Saturday, March 6 - Semi-final 2 – 1st leg
Monday, March 8 - Semi-final 1 – 2nd leg
Tuesday, March 9 - Semi-final 2 – 2nd leg
SATURDAY, MARCH 13- FINAL

The semi-finals will be played across two venues - GMC Stadium, Bambolim and JL Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, before the latter also hosts the summit clash.

FSDL announced the rules of semifinals and playoff.
The League toppers will be crowned with League Shield Winners, earning a direct group-stage entry into the AFC Champions League next season.

The 'Away Goal' rule will not apply in the semi-finals this season. Teams with the highest goal aggregate in their respective two-legged ties will progress to the final.

The seventh edition witnessed 11 teams playing in 115 matches.

BREAKING SC EAST BENGAL DEFENSE IS A CHALLENGE: ROY KRISHNA

17.2.21: The second Derby of the seventh edition of Indian Super League between the two arch rivals, ATK Mohun Bagan and SC East Bengal will be played on the 19th of February.

The Mariners under the close eyes of the Spanish Coach Antonio Habas are preparing for the Derby since Tuesday. Antonio Habas are concentrating on the set pieces and the diversified attacks to overcome their oppornant.

The main target of ATK Mohun Bagan is to win the remaining three matches in the league stages so that they can qualify for the AFC Champions league directly.

The two important members of ATK Mohun Bagan, Roy Krishna and Carl Mchugh played an important role in the first Derby in November when the Mariners registered a win against SC East Bengal by a brace. Roy Krishna scored the first goal while McHugh were declared as the Man Of The Match. These two important footballers expressed their views before the Derby.

The ace striker of ATK Mohun Bagan in a discussion with the club media said, "There is no complacency in me for being at the top of the league. For us, all the matches, including the Derby are like the final. I am going to play the Derby on Friday like a final match. And we have to win that match. We have to remember that we are going to play against a strong team like SC East Bengal. That is why we will play with the best preparation.",br>
While answering regarding the strength of the opornant, Roy krishna said,"SC East Bengal is much stronger now than the team defeated by us in the first phase. Like other teams, they also have changed. Their strength has increased after taking in few new footballers in January. Especially in the last few matches, they played quite well. East Bengal's defence has blocked many definite goals in the last few matches. Breaking East Bengal's defence and scoring a goal is therefore a challenge for us. We have to overcome that barrier for the Green-Maroon supporters and to stay on the top."

ATK Mohun Bagan's midfeilder Carl MChugh feels SC East Bengal is a challenging team to overcome, He said. "East Bengal is now much stronger than last time. It's tough to defeat them. But we are also in good form. The challenge is to maintain the continuity of victory. East Bengal's attacking side is strong enough this time. We have to keep our target intact keeping the defence strong. But our attacking third is also strong enough."

ATK Mohun Bagan won the first round match by a brace scored by Roy Krishna and Manvir Singh.

MARCO PEZZAIUOLI IS THE NEW HEAD COACH OF BENGALURU FC

12.2.21: Bengaluru FC today announced Marco Pezzaiuoli joined the club as their new head coach on a three year performance based contract until 2023-24 season.

German Born Italian 52 year old Coach Pezzaiuoli most recently worked as Technical Director in German Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt. He started his coaching career with Karlsruher SC as Youth Director. Later he join South Korean side Suwon Samsung Bluewings FC and won K-League and K-League Cup in 2004. Later he took charge of German Youth side with the players like Mario Gotze, Marc Andre ter Stegen, Skokradan Mustafi and Bernd Leno. He also worked as team analyst for Germany in Euro 2008. He then joined TSG Hoffenheim initially as assistant coach then interim coach with the players like Robert Firmino, Gylfi Sigurdsson, David Alaba.

Pezzaiuoli said in club media " I'm very proud to be part of Bengaluru FC, and excited about the challenge to bring the team back to the top. I am always keento gather experiences in life and football and to be able to make a difference wherever I go. I'm also keen to share my experience to help Indian football grow. I'm really looking forward to joining the team as soon as I can."

HYDERABAD ARE RATED HIGHER THAN OTHER CLUBS: TONY GRANT

11.2.21: After a comfortable win against Jamshedpur FC on Sunday evening, SC East Bengal are aiming to earn full points against Hyderabad FC on Friday in a 17th round match . The Red and Gold requires full points in the four remaining matches in the group stages in order to stay as one of the contenders in the playoff stages.

SC East Bengal lost against Hyderabad FC by a margin of 2-3 in the first round. The Red and Gold are almost at the bottom(9th in 11 teams tournament) in the league table with 16 points from 16 matches in their maiden appearance. While Hyderabad FC are the 4th place with 23 points from 16 matches. In fact North East United FC, Hyderabad and FC Goa – are all tied on 23 points with 16 games, making the competitive at the final stages.

The assistant coach of SC East Bengal, Tony Grant while answering in the virtual pre match Press conference said, "I rate Hyderabad FC higher than most of the other clubs. They are better than the last two years and they got some good players. It’s going to be a tough game. They are few points ahead of us so they have got more to try and hold on to. "

SC East Bengal are yet to finalise the final eleven for Friday's game. While interacted , Grant said, “We can’t play the same 11. We played really well. We would like to play the same team but whether we have any knocks or inquiries, we will find out later. We will going to continue to play good brand of football, with a specific strategy."

The match will kick off at Tilak Maidan at 7.30PM.

ATK MOHUN BAGAN TO FACE BENGALURU FC ON TUESDAY

8.2.21: After an impressive performance against Odisha FC in the last match, ATK Mohun Bagan are set face the challenge of Bengaluru FC on Tuesday evening in an important match in the Group stages in the current edition of Indian Super League.

The Mariners are comfortably placed in the second position with 30 points at the end of the 15 round,are almost to earn a berth in the play off stages. While Bengaluru FC required full points against ATK Mohun Bagan in order to place them as a contender for the play off stages. Bengaluru FC are struggling at 6th position in the league table with 19 points at the end of 16th round.

In the virtual pre match Press conference, the Spanish coach of ATK Mohun Bagan, Antonio Habas said, “The aim is to be in the playoffs mathematically and then be in the 1st position. And after that semi-finals and then in the final, if possible. We are going to go match by match and day by day, Bengaluru match is just another game. The team is continuing to do well in defense. We are improving in attack and this is important for us."

It is a must win situation for Bengaluru FC in order to secure a place in the play off. The Interim Head Coach of Bengaluru FC, Naushad Moosa are well aware of the situation. In a discussion before the tough match against the Mariners Moosa said, “ATK Mohun Bagan have been playing well, have a very good attacking line that compensates for the odd goal they have been conceding and it will not be easy to get all points. They have players like Roy Krishna, David Williams and even Manvir Singh, who have done well in attack. We know how important this game is, and if we perform the way we did against SC East Bengal, we will have a good chance of coming out with the points.”

The match will kick off at 7.30PM at Fatorda.

WE WILL CONTINUE OUR FIGHT AGAINST JAMSHEDPUR: TONY GRANT

6.2.21: SC East Bengal will face Jamshedpur FC in a 16th round match at Fatorda on Sunday evening. This will be the second round clash between these two teams as the first round match ended goalless after a 90 minutes battle.

SC East Bengal are currently placed at the 10th position in the League table with 13 points,wherein Jamshedpur FC are at the 7th position with 18 points in their credit.

The Red and Gold are struggling in their maiden appearance in Indian Super League will miss Robbie Fowler, the Head coach in the dugout as he is suspended for the next four matches leading to controversial comments to the match officials.

SC East Bengal will be desperate for their third win on Sunday evening. A loss will be the end of their chances to find a place in the playoff stages. The Red and Gold are win less in five games and they have not scored in three of their last four matches.

In a virtual press conference before the match, assistant coach Tony Grant while interacting said, "I don't think it's been tough on the pitch. When you analyse everything, the team was only put in the ISL at the last minute. We had a two-week pre-season. I think the team has done tremendously.We're one point behind Kerala who've had many years to prepare for this year. All the staff and all the players deserve credit for the fight that they have shown and we will carry on showing that fight."

The match will kick off at 5.00 PM at Fatorda.

ATK MOHUN BAGAN WILL BE CHAMPION AGAIN: MARCELINHO

4.2.21: ATK Mohun Bagan will play against Odisha FC in their 15th match in Indian Super League. The Mariners are on 27 points are occupying the 2nd position in the League table. The match is important for ATK Mohun Bagan as a win will place them much closer to the League leaders Mumbai City FC.

Carl Mchugh will be out of the squad against Odisha FC following card offense, but Lenny Rodriges who joined from FC Goa in the transfer window likely to be included in the squad.

Marcelinho Pereira, the Brazilian striker who scored an important goal in the last match against Kerala Blasters FC, expressed his views with the club media before the match against Odisha FC. Marcelinho Pereira said, “Orissa is at the bottom of the league table. They have no chance to go to the playoff. This is their great advantage. There is nothing to lose, so they will play being completely stress free. Everyone will try their best to prove themselves in this match. All matches are difficult in ISL. So there is no reason to underestimate Orissa. I am also preparing to give my best against the team that I left. We have to get the three points. ”

While regarding his performance against Kerala Blasters FC, Marcelinho Pereira said, "Many called my goal against Kerala a turning point in the match. It feels good to be in a green-maroon jersey and score in the first match, my self-confidence has also increased. It is true that this goal paved the way for winning that match. But all the credit goes to the coach. It was possible due to the change in his strategy after the break. We desperately jumped for the goal. That is why we have won under pressure. ”

Marcelinho feels that ATK Mohun Bagan will certainly qualify for the play off stages. While interacting he said, “We believe that we have already reached the playoff. Now our goal is to become the champion. I will play in the rest of the matches with that goal. And I have been dreaming of it ever since I joined ATK Mohun Bagan that we will be the champion again. ”

ROBBIE FOWLER SUSPENDED AND FINED BY THE DISCIPLINARY COMMITTEE

3.2.21: The British coach of SC East Bengal, Robbie Fowler was suspended for 4 matches and fined an amount of 5 lakh by the disciplinary committee of All India Football Federation on Wednesday. The disciplinary committee of All India Football Federation found the Robbie Fowler guilty for commenting "insulting" remarks against Indian Referees.

The senior lawyer of AIFF, Ushanath Banerjee and other members of the disciplinary committee took the decision against Robbie Fowler following a comment after the match against FC Goa on the 29th of January in a Indian Super League match. In a hot discussion before the match Robbie Fowler said that the Referees are Anti-English or Anti East Bengal.

The disciplinary committee of All India Football Federation charged Robbie Fowler under Articles 50.4, 58 and 59.1 of the AIFF Disciplinary Code which mainly deals with offenses related to racist remarks by any individual. Robbie Fowler was asked by the committee regarding his controversial comment on the 29th January during the meeting. The disciplinary committee are of the opinion that Fowler's comment was offensive and gross inconceivable derogatory and contemptuous aspersions.

SC East Bengal is at the 10th position in the 11 teams ISL with 13 points in their kitty.

SC EAST BENGAL'S STATEMENT REGARDING THEIR HEAD COACH ROBBIE FOWLER

3.2.21: SC East Bengal in a statement stated that Head Coach Robbie Fowler did not comment anything after the match against FC Goa, which leads to a controversy. In an official statement SC East Bengal stated, "Mr. Fowler's comments on the refereeing were in no way racist. The disciplinary charge from the All India Football Federation which Mr. Fowler will be responding to also does not allude to any racist connotations in Mr. Fowler's Comments."

FC GOA SIGNED AMARJIT SINGH KIYAM, JAMSHEDPUR FC SIGNED BORIS SINGH THANGJAM

3.2.21: FC Goa completed the signing of Indian National Team player and U-17 World Cup captain, 20 year old Amarjit Singh Kiyam from Jamshedpur FC, whereas Jamshedpur FC signed Boris Singh Thangjam, who released by ATK Mohun Bagan.

20 year old Amarjit made 5 appearances for Indian Senior National Team so far. He made 15 appearances for Jamshedpur FC in Indian Super League so far in two season. Boris yet to make his Indian Super League debut.

Amarjit Singh said in FC Goa Media, “FC Goa is a side that I have admired for a long time. This is a great honour to get the opportunity to represent the people of Goa and wear the shirt. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Jamshedpur FC and would like to thank everyone at the club, and the fans, for their fantastic support over the past two seasons. When FC Goa came knocking, I knew this was an opportunity I had to take. I am here to win and Goa has a winners’ DNA. I am excited about the vision of the club. It’s clear to see that the side we are building is one to win trophies. Then there is the AFC Champions League, something that really excites me. I am now looking forward to meeting my new team-mates and hit the ground running."

ROBBIE FOWLER LIKELY TO BE PENALISED

2.2.21: Indian Super League faces yet another controversy as the British coach of SC East Bengal likely to face a ban and fine following his statement after the match against FC Goa on 29th January. SC East Bengal shared points with ten men FC Goa after Edu Bedia was sent off by the Referee at the 65th minute of the match.

Sources reveal that Robbie Fowler faces a minimum ban of five matches and Rs 6 lakh fine for his racist remarks during a conversation after the match against FC Goa with the match officials.

The disciplinary committee will finally decide after verifying all the aspects and reports of the match match commissioner. The disciplinary committee will talk to Robbie Fowler on Wednesday before they take the final decision.

ODISHA FC SACKED STUART BAXTER WITH IMMEDIATE EFFECT

2.2.21: Indian Super League team Odisha FC taday sacked their Head Coach Stuart Baxter following his comment after a defeat against Jamshedpur FC on Monday night.It has been intimated that Odishe FC will soon appoint interim coach for the remaining matches of the season.

After a neck to neck fight Odisha FC lost the match by a goal against Jamshedpur FC. In a discussion after the match 67 years British coach Stuart Baxter said, "I have to say, you need decisions to go your way and I don’t know what we have to do to get a penalty. One of my players would have to rape or get raped in the box to get a penalty."

In a statement Odisha FC stated, "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."

Odisha FC currently placed at the bottom of the ISL League table after the 14 round with 8 points in their account.

SC EAST BENGAL SIGNED SARTHAK GOLUI AND SOURAV DAS

01.02.21: SC East Bengal signed Sarthak Golui and Sourav Das from Mumbai City FC for the remainder of the 2020-21 season.

"They are both great players. We have probably seen both for a while. Both are good players who can potentially take us to a new level." - Robbie Fowler

23 year old defender Sarthak played 4 matches for Mumbai City FC this season. was among the best defenders for Mumbai City FC in the 2019-20 Hero ISL season, registering 113 clearances and 46 tackles wih one goal.

"I am very excited to join SC East Bengal. Being from West Bengal, it is always a dream to don the red and gold colours. I can't wait to take the field for SC East Bengal and give my best. I am sure I will learn a lot from a legend like Robbie Fowler and the entire coaching staff," Sarthak said in club media.

Sourav made seven appearances for Mumbai City FC in the 2019-20 season. "I am delighted to join SC East Bengal. It is a club with a lot of legacy and I am eager to put my best foot forward. I am really looking forward to working under the guidance of Robbie Fowler and the entire coaching staff," Sourav said in club media.

ATK MOHUN BAGAN SIGNED LENNY, GLAN MARTINS JOINED FC GOA

01.02.21: ATK Mohun Bagan today announced the signing of Lenny Rodrigues on a 18-month deal until 2021-2022 season from FC Goa. Glan Martins joined FC Goa onthe swap deal.

33 year old Indian National Team midfielder played 10 matches of FC Goa in this season. In his 739 minutes play he have 85% passing accuracy. He made 29 tackles, 15 interceptions, 11 blocks and 7 clearances.

IT WILL BE AN ENJOYABLE MATCH : MARCELINHO

30.1.21: The Brazalian midfielder Marcelinho Pereira joined ATK Mohun Bagan on loan from Odisha FC in the transfer window. Under this swap deal Brad Inman joined Odisha FC for the rest of the season. Marcelinho joined the practice session under Spanish coach Antonio Habas and is likely to be included in the squad on Sunday night against Kerala Blasters FC.

In a discussion with the ATK Mohun Bagan media Marcelinho discussed regarding Sunday match and ATK Mohun Bagan. He said, “I am known to ATK Mohun Bagan coach, Habas for a long time. His and the teams’ football philosophy is my favourite. The team has the highest number of members and supporters in India. Thats why I chose the Green-Maroon jersey. I hope I can adapt to the team very quickly. Because I have watched almost all the games of ATK Mohun Bagan and I know the coach's strategy. If I get a chance to play in the Kerala match, I will try to give my best. There are many footballers that score in the team including Roy Krishna. I will try to bring the team back to victory with them."

Regarding Kerala Blasters match on Sunday, Marcelinho said, “Kerala is a strong team. The team is terrible in positional football. We have to keep that in mind. Our team is also strong enough. So hopefully on Sunday it will be an enjoyable match. The biggest advantage of ATK Mohun Bagan is that the reserve bench is as strong as the first eleven. The team plays balanced football. is also diversity in the game. I think our team is one of the contenders to be the champion again."

The match will kick off at 7.30 PM .

SC EAST BENGAL WILL GO ALL OUT TO WIN : TONY GRANT

28.01.2021: SC East Bengal will face the challange of FC Goa in an away match in fourteen round at Fatroda stadium on Friday night. This will be the second round match between the two teams as the first round ended in a 1-1 draw at Tilok Maidan. The Nigerian striker Bright Enobakhare scored for SC East Bengal which was equalised by Devendra Murgaokar of FC Goa.

SC East Bengal are placed at the 10th position in the League table with 12 points after the end of the 13th round. The Goans are much ahead occupying the 3rd position with 20 points at the end of the 13th round in the competition.

After a defeat against Mumbai City FC in the last match by a margin of 1-0, SC East Bengal would like came back strongly on Friday evening against FC Goa. The Red and Gold are desperate to earn points in order to climb up further in the League table. FC Goa will miss the service of their two overseas defenders Ivan Gonzalez and James Donachie following injury and RED CARD offense respectively. This would likely to be an advantage for SC East Bengal on Friday against FC Goa.

In the virtual Press meeting Assistant Coach of SC East Bengal Tony Grant said, "We go all out to win every game. We've played three games with ten men this season. We didn't know any of the players before the start of the season, so the first ten games were mostly about knowing the players. With the higher-ranked teams dropping points, it gives every other team an opportunity to climb the ladder."

While answering to a question regarding the absence of two overseas defenders of FC Goa, Tony Grant said, "It's an opportunity. We lost our captain early on this season, so we know it doesn't help. Every team depends a lot on its better players."

The Match will kick off at 7.30PM.

SUBRATA PAUL JOINS SC EAST BENGAL, SANKAR ROY JOINS HYDERABAD FC

24.1.21: Indian international goalkeeper Subrata Paul joins SC East Bengal. Sources reveal that Subrata Paul joins the Kolkata club as a loan footballer from Hyderabad FC for the remaining matches of the season. Sankar Ray the young goalkeeper of SC East Bengal joined Hyderabad FC as a loan footballer.

Subrata Paul returned to SC East Bengal after a span of 13 years. The 34 years old goalkeeper joined the Kolkata club when they are in search of an experienced goalkeeper. Subrata played 6 matches in the current edition of ISL, but were replaced by Laxmikant Kattimani after he sustained a knee injury. Though Subrata is now fit enough to play a competetive match.

OUR ULTIMATE TARGET IS TO STAY AS LEAGUE LEADERS : JAVI HERNANDEZ

24.1.21: ATK Mohun Bagan will play against North East United FC in the 13th round match on Tuesday evening. After securing a win in the first round by a margin of 2-0, the Mariners are in a target to earn full points in order to climb up at the top of the league table.

In an discussion with the club media, the Spanish midfielder of ATK Mohun Bagan Javi Hernandez expressed his views before the match against North East United. Javi said, “The situation and the environment in the ‘New Normal’ are completely different. No team got a chance to practice right away. There is very little time between matches. As a result,the chances of recovery are less. Problem do arise when we have to play match just after four days. But this time we have mastered the situation. We are ready for the North east match."

While answering a question the chances of ATK Mohun Bagan, Javi said, "No team can promise to win in the second round only because they won the first round. too can't. The defence of the Northeast is very strong. They have lost only three matches. We are going to play another difficult match. Winning will not be easy. But we have to win this match so that we can get closer to the top of the league."

Javi is quite optimistic that ATK Mohun Bagan will finish the initial stages as league leaders. He said, "We don't want to go on the field on Tuesday with the thought that we will reach to the playoff. Our goal is to get just three points in the next match but our ultimate goal is to finish the league being at the top. Tha's the thing we should do, keeping our best form till the end."

ATK MOHUN Bagan are now with 24 points from 12 matches are placed at the second position in the league table.

MUMBAI CITY FC SIGNED JACKICHAND SINGH, JAMSHEDPUR FC SIGNED FARUKH CHOWDHURY

23.01.21: Mumbai City FC have today confirmed the signing of Jackichand Singh from Jamshedpur FC on a two and a half year deal. On the other hand as per the swap deal Farukh Choudhary joined Jamshedpur FC.

Jackichand returns to Mumbai City FC from Jamshedpur FC. He played all 12 matches in Indian Super League for Jamshedpur FC in 2020-21 season and have 3 assists.

"I'm thrilled to be back at Mumbai City FC. I am thankful to the management for giving me this opportunity to return to this big club and to work again with coach Sergio Lobera. I am acquainted with his philosophy, his style of play and I am aware of what he expects from me. I am also delighted to be playing again for the most amazing fans who gave me a lot of love when I was here a few years ago. I can’t wait to get going with my teammates and contribute towards our collective ambitions." - Jackichand said in club media.

"Jacki is a very good player. He is aware of our philosophy, and I am certain it won’t take him long to adapt to our style of play and settle in with his new family. We are glad to have him here and we are happy that he’s back at Mumbai City. He will be a valuable addition to our squad and we hope he can hit the ground running.” - Head Coach of Mumbai City FC, Sergio Lobera Said.

ADIL & DHEERAJ JOINED FC GOA, LENN IN JAMSHEDPUR FC

22.1.21 FC Goa officially announce the signing of Indian international Adil Khan on loan from Hyderabad FC till the end of the season.
The Indian international, Adil Khan had the experience of playing 61 ISL matches in ISL clubs Delhi Dynamos FC,FC Pune City and Hyderabad FC.
The manipuri midfeilder of FC Goa Seiminlen Doungel has signed for Jamshedpur on loan for the rest of the season.
Earlier, FC Goa signed goalkeeper Dheeraj Singh Moirangthem after he was released by ATK Mohun Bagan. The goalkeeper of Indian U-17 World Cup, Dheeraj signed a three-and-a-half-year deal with FC Goa, keeping him at the club till the summer of 2024.

SC East Bengal also released Samad Ali Mallick and Md Irshad. Both joined I-League side Punjab FC.

WE WILL PLAY OUR OWN GAME GIVING RESPECT TO MUMBAI: RENEDY

21.1.21: SC East Bengal to face the strong challenge of the league leaders Mumbai City FC on Friday night in their 13th round match. Mumbai City FC are maintaining the pole position of the ISL league table with 26 points from 11 matches. The Red and Gold are far behind with 12 points from 12 matches, holding the 9th position in the league table.

Mumbai City FC won the first round encounter when the crashed SC East Bengal by a margin of 3-0 in a truely dominated match.

In the virtual pre match Press conference, the Assistant coach of SC East Bengal, Renedy Singh expressed his views in an interaction with the club media. Renedy said, "Mumbai are a good side and they have been doing really well.But I feel we have to consider our own style, how we've played in the last seven matches. I think the boys have worked really hard. It is a process that we have to continue. We will work on our own side while giving respect to them."

Mumbai City FC are maintaining an impressive record in the current edition of the competition. Mumbai City FC are also now unbeaten in 10 games. Three more and Mumbai will set a league record for the longest unbeaten streak in Hero ISL history, overtaking FC Goa's 12-game run.

The match will kick of at 7.30PM at Tilak maidan.

OUR IDEA IS TO GET THREE POINTS IN EVERY MATCH: HABAS

20.1.21: After wasting points against Mumbai City FC and FC Goa, the second placed team in the league ATK Mohun Bagan will play against Chennaiyin FC in a 12th round encounter . The first round match on 29th December ended in a goal less draw.

In the virtual press conference just before the match the Spanaish coach of ATK Mohun Bagan, Antonio Habas said,"There is no added pressure. In championships, you have good moments and sometimes bad. We have played the last two games against the top two teams – FC Goa and Mumbai City FC who are capable of winning the league. We are in the top half of the table. Maybe we need to improve. We have to continue our work. Our idea is to get three points in every match. After that we can think about the playoffs."

The Mariners has created the least number of chances (81) this season and has attempted just 35 shots on target. They have also scored just 11 — the joint-second-lowest in the league. While discussing, Habas said, "We need to find the right balance between attack and defence. I wouldn’t prefer scoring and conceding 25 goals. That’s not good for me."

The match will kick off at Fatorda stadium at 7.30PM.

WIN IS IMPORTANT THAN TO SCORE A GOAL: EDU GRACIA

20.1.21: ATK Mohun Bagan will play against Chennaiyin FC on an important encounter on Thursday night. After wasting five valuable points in the last two matches against Mumbai City FC and FC Goa the Mariners are desperate to earn full points against Chennaiyin FC on their 12th outing.

ATK Mohun Bagan are placed at the second position in the league with 21 points from 11 matches.

Edu Gracia, one of the important member of Antonio Habas’s Brigade are confident for a win on Thursday evening. In a discussion with ATK Mohun Bagan media he said,"The most important thing for me is not the goal, but the victory of the team.  It is a joy to score a good goal but the honour is when the team wins.  However, I would have been much happier if we could win the match against Goa.”

Edu Gracia looked quite optimistic against Chennaiyin FC as he said, “We lost five points with two teams that are the best two clubs in this competition. Nevertheless, we are in second place in the league table.  I dont want to think about what happened in the previous matches.  Chennai match is ahead. We are thinking of winning it. We want to go match by match.  They are strong enough but we have confidence in our team’s strength.”

ATK Mohun Bagan had conceded only 5 goals in 11 matches. While interacting Gracia said "The ball has entered our goal only 5 times in 11 matches.  That’s a good aspect of our team.  If the aim is intact, the team's confidence increases.  However, there are shortcomings in scoring.  We still haven't scored goals like last year.  This is the part that the team needs improvement.”

The two times champions, Chennaiyin FC are on the 6th position in the league table 15 points to their credit.

WE WILL CONTINUE AND TRY FOR POINTS: ROBBIE FOWLER

17.1.21: SC East Bengal will play against the two times champions Chenniyin FC in an important encounter on Monday evening. After a last minute equaliser against Kerala Blasters FC, SC East Bengal are now all set for the sixth 'away' contest and continue their unbeaten run at the GMC Stadium at Bambolim .

The first round match on 26th December at Tilak Maidan against Chennaiyin FC ended in 2-2 after a competitive match.

The Head coach of SC East Bengal Robbie Fowler are quite positive against Chenniyin FC as his team is now just five points below the playoffs position.

In the virtual Press Meeting before the match, Robbie Fowler said, “There are plenty of positives we can gather. There are a lot of points to play for and we’ll continue to try and get those points. So until it's mathematically impossible, we will go on believing that we can do it. Morale is absolutely fantastic. We are taking baby steps to get to where we believe we should and want to be. We got to keep going and keep doing what we got to do. Let’s not lose games and that’s what we are trying to do."

Regarding the injury of Raju Gaikwad, Robbie Fowler said, "I am not here to tell who is playing and who's not because I don't want to make the opposition manager's job easy. He (Raju) was unfortunate to miss the last game due to an injury at the very last minute. We've got a squad of players and we'll try to use them."

Chenniyin FC, currently placed at the 5th position with 14 points after the eleventh round.

ATK MOHUN BAGAN ARE DESPERATE TO WIN AGAINST FC GOA

16.1.21: After a loss against Mumbai City FC in last match, ATK Mohun Bagan are desperate to came back in the winning run against the third placed team in the league FC Goa on Sunday evening. The Mariners currently placed at the 2nd position in the League table, won the first round match on 16th December by a solitary goal scored by Roy Krishna at the 85th minute of the match.

Arindam Bhattacharjee who had an injury in his eye during the course of the match against Mumbai City are now fit enough to play against FC Goa on Sunday. In an interview with the ATK Mohun Bagan media Arindam Bhattacharjee talked about the importance of FC Goa's match. He said, “Goa is a strong and balanced team. One of the strong contenders to win the tournament like us. The strategy given by the coach against them has to be applied properly. There is no reason not to win if we can play your own game. Yes, we lost to Mumbai, but we could have won that match. It is a long league. Still half of the matches are left. I don’t want to think about that match. I don't think the effect of that match will be felt on Sunday's match. Instead, on Sunday we will be more cautious as well as desperate to play well. Because if we don't win this match, we will fall behind in the league table."

Arindam is now fully fit after recovering an eye injury which he had in the last match against Mumbai City. While interacting he said, “There is no problem with my eyes now. It can hurt a little while playing. I am preparing to return to the dressing room keeping the target intact. We will not enter the field thinking that we will win the second match as we had won the first match against Goa. We will play the game just like another new match and we have to win.”

The Spanish coach of ATK Mohun Bagan, Antonio Habas in the virtual Press conference just before the match against FC Goa said, "A victory on Sunday is vital when it comes to catching up with leaders Mumbai City FC at the top, a prospect made bleaker by the defeat to Sergio Lobera's team in the last match. We have to fight, we have to win every game. We are not thinking about the last match. I know that Goa has good players, we also have good players. Now we are ready to fight it out in the 90 minutes in the next match. "

The match will start at Fatorda at 7.30 PM.

DHEERAJ JOINED FC GOA, AJAY CHETRI IN SC EAST BENGAL

15.1.21: The young goalkeeper Dheeraj Singh joined FC Goa after he was released by ATK Mohun Bagan in the transfer window. Dheeraj joined FC Goa in a three years deal.

Dheeraj Singh was in the Indian U 17 FIFA World cup 2017 squad made his ISL appearance for Kerala Blasters FC later joined ATK last year. He was in the squad of ATK Mohun Bagan this year but failed to get a chance in final eleven.

Meanwhile, Mohammed Nawaz who was in FC Goa squad like to take a transfer to Hyderabad FC shortly.

SC East Bengal in a press note today announces the joining of 21 years old young midfielder Ajay Chetri on loan from Bengaluru FC. Ajay was in Bengaluru FC academy since 2016, later was called on the senior team in 2018-19 season.

Subham Sen, the goalkeeper of Customs Club of Kolkata will join SC East Bengal. Subham had a wonderful performance for United Sports Club of Kolkata in the recently concluded IFA Shield.

SC EAST BENGAL TO FACE KERALA BLASTERS ON FRIDAY

14.01.21: SC East Bengal looked a much confident and improvised team at the beginning of the second round matches in the current edition of Indian Super League. After a 1-1 draw in the first round on 20th December, SC East Bengal will play against Kerala Blasters FC in the second round at home on Friday night .

Though SC East Bengal are placed at 9th after 10th round, but Robbie Fowler's side are unbeaten in their last five games, securing two wins on the way.Kerala Blasters FC are just a point behind their oppornat with 9 points from ten matches.

In the virtual Press Conference before the match, Robbie Fowler, the Head Coach said, "We are on a good little run and when people were quick to criticise us, we weren't getting carried away and likewise. We know there's plenty of hard work that we will be continuing to do. We look a more confident team and a settled team. We are in a good space but we need to keep growing and do what we are doing. So far, it has progressed more than the way we wanted at the start. A long way to go, we cannot stop now. Our target is win match by match and finally settle ourselves in a comfortable position."

The match will looked to be important for both the teams. A win on friday night will place them in a stable position in the league table and closer to the play off spot.

NORTHEAST UNITED PART AWAY WITH GERARD NUS, DEPUTED KHALID JAMIL AS HEAD COACH

13.01.21 : Indian Super League side NorthEast United has decided to part ways with the Spanish National Coach Gerard Nus with immediate effect following a draw with Bengaluru FC last evening.

Assistant Coach Khalid Jamil has been appointed as the new interim Head Coach for the remaining part of the current season.

ATK MOHUN BAGAN WILL PLAY AGAINST MUMBAI CITY FC IN A CRUCIAL ENCOUNTER

10.1.21: ATK Mohun Bagan will play against Mumbai City FC in one of the toughest match of the competition at Fatorda on Monday evening. Mumbai City are enjoying the pole position of the league table with 22 points from 9 matches while ATK Mohun Bagan are just behind Mumbai City with 20 points at the end of the 9th round.


The Spanish coach of ATK Mohun Bagan, Antonio Habas at the virtual Press Conference just before the match said, . "I don't think that Mumbai is a team that only attacks. They have good progressional play and counter-attacks. It's very difficult to stop their team because they always play forward but I don't think it's a match between attacking and defending because football is a game of attacking and defending. Both teams have transitions from one side to the other. The importance of a match depends on the moment. Now, it's a match between the first and second teams. Maybe two or three weeks later, the match may not have the same importance but the idea is to play the same way."


Having scored 16 goals so far, Mumbai City has the best attack in the league with a goal conversion rate of 15.84%. They have scored in their last eight games. ATKMB undeniably has the best defense, having maintained 7 clean sheets in nine games, and are yet to concede a goal from open play this season.

WE HAVE TO DEFEAT MUMBAI WHILE PLAYING LIKE CHAMPIONS: PRITAM

10.01.21: ATK Mohun Bagan will play one of the toughest match in the current edition of ISL on Monday evening against Mumbai City FC. Though ATK Mohun Bagan are maintaining a remarkable performance, but Mumbai City FC are the league leaders and proved to be as one of the contenders in the seventh edition of the competition.


Pritam Kotal, one of the important member of ATK Mohun Bagan feels that all the matches in ISL are tough while he was in a discussion with the club media. He said, " I do not agree to call the Mumbai match as a mega match. This match is not comparable with Kolkata Derby. Deby is an emotional match. There is a different kind of mental stress. There is no reason to give extra importance to Mumbai. All the matches are difficult in ISL. Winning the Mumbai match will not be easy. But we are the champion team. We have to defeat them while playing like champions. There is no place for complacency.


It is a fact that winning the North East match has boosted the confidence of our team. That must be used. Mumbai is playing quite well this year. The team is maintaining a good position in the league table from the start. Giving neck to neck fight with us. That is why we have to win this match to increase our mental strength. Not thinking of anything other than three points.


There forwards are in good form. But there is no reason to think that they will score breaking our defense. Our defense is still the best in the league. Our performance is the best among the eleven teams. We have kept our target intact in seven out of nine matches. We want to maintain that continuity. One more thing to say is their Adam or Hugo Boumous are in good form, our Krishna, Manvir, Willams are also in good form. I think he match will be enjoyable."

AIFF OVERTURNED REFEREE'S DECISION AGAINST DANNY FOX

09.01.21: Danny Fox, the central defender of SC East Bengal will be available for Saturday's Hero Indian Super League (ISL) clash against Bengaluru FC. All Indian Football Federation (AIFF) Disciplinary Committee reviewed video clippings of the incident upon the club's appeal against the decision and was satisfied there was neither any intentional serious foul or violent conduct on Fox's part. The Committee was convinced that Fox's sending off after his sliding tackle on FC Goa's Alexander Romario Jesuraj was 'an error apparent on the part of the referee and calls for rectifying the same in the interests of fair play' and necessitated overturning of the red card and the subsequent 1-match ban.

ROBBIE FOWLER SUSPENDED AGAINST BENGALURU, NAUSAD MOOSA AIMING TO BOUNCE BACK

08.01.21: After an impressive turnout in the last match against FC Goa, SC East Bengal are now set to face the challenge of Bengaluru FC in their tenth match of the seventh edition of ISL at the Fatorda stadium on Saturday evening.

It is a busy and tough schedule for Red and Gold as they have to play three matches within a short span of seven days. SC East Bengal's prime target is to earn three valuable points against Bengaluru while Bengaluru FC is aiming to bounce back after three loses in a row.

SC East Bengal are placed at the 9th position in the league table after 9th round with 7 points, while Bengaluru FC are placed at the 5th position with 12 points, though they suffered three consecutive defeats in the last three matches.

SC East Bengal's Head coach Robbie Fowler is suspended for the game after receiving his second caution of the season in the previous game against FC Goa, and captain Danny Fox will miss the match too with a red card in the last outing.

Meanwhile, Bengaluru FC had parted ways with Carles Cuadrat, the Head coach of the side for last five years and Nausad Moosa will be in the dug out as the interim coach.

BENGALURU FC PART AWAY WITH CUADRAT, DEPUTED MOOSA AS HEAD COACH

6.1.21 : Bengaluru FC and Carles Cuadrat, the Head coach to the team today decided to part ways mutually. This was officially announced by Bengaluru FC in a press note. Nausad Moosa will step in as interim Head Coach with immediate effect.

The Director of Bengaluru FC, Parth Jindal in his statement said, "After deep deliberation with the management, we feel the club needs to head in a new direction – one where the ethos and philosophy of Bengaluru FC begins reflecting again. While we enjoyed success with Carles in the past, we felt there was a departure from the philosophy that we hold true this season, which prompted us to arrive at this decision. Mr Parth Jindal expressed his gratitude for everything that Carles Cuadrat who was associated with the club since last five years.

The Director of the Karnataka based club Bengaluru FC, Parth Jindal furthur announced the assignment of Nausad Moosa as the interim Head Coach with immediate effect. Moosa has been with the clubs coaching team since last four years.

Moosa’s first assignment will be the game against SC East Bengal on Saturday at the Fatorda Stadium.

RAJU AND ANKIT JOINS SC EAST BENGAL

02.01.2021 : SC East Bengal officilly announces the signing of two more footballers in their squad for the remaining matches of the current edition of Indian Super League. The central defender Raju Eknath Gaikwad who was with the team in trail finally signed for Red and Gold. While wing back Ankit Mukherjee after releasing from ATK Mohun Bagan joins the SC East Bengal camp.



A Tata Football Academy graduate, Raju Gaikwad played for East Bengal from 2011-15 after spending a year with AIFF youth devolopement team Pailan Arrows. The 30 years old experienced defender, had the experience of playing in Mohun Bagan and ISL teams Mumbai City FC, Jamshedpur FC and Kerala Blasters FC. Raju played 36 matches for U-23 as well as Indian National football team.

After joining SC East Bengal Raju Gaikwad in his massage to the club media said, "I am delighted to reunite with SC East Bengal, a club I played for in the past. We all know how big a club it is and I am eager to contribute to the team's success. The season is underway and I am raring to go."

Ankit Mukherjee, the wing back, joined SC East Bengal after he was released by ATK Mohun Bagan. A product of East Bengal youth devolopement team Ankit played for Kolkata CFL club Aryan and Md Sporting before he was selected to play for Delhi Dynamos. He later signed for ATK and eventually to ATK Mohun Bagan but was not in the final squad. Ankit opt to take a tranfer and join to a club from where he started his carrer as a footballer.

NIGERIAN STRIKER BRIGHT ENOBAKHARE JOINS SC EAST BENGAL

01.01.2021: SC East Bengal today officially announced the signing of Nigerian striker Bright Enobakhare for the year 2020-21. SC East Bengal are in search of a good striker since long and finally decided to sign the 22 years old Nigerian as the seventh foreigneer in the current squad.



The Nigerian striker Enobakhare, after signing told the club media, "I am happy to be part of SC East Bengal. It is the biggest club in India and offers me a fresh challenge. The Indian Super League is growing at a rapid pace and I believe I can fulfill my potential there. I know the league is already underway and I have to quickly get along with the squad and I am ready for that. I am really looking forward to the challenge ahead."

The Head coach of SC East Bengal, Robbie Fowler are truely delighted with the signing of Bright Enobakhare as he said, “The signing of a young, talented and very good player adds to our squad. I will stress how young and talented he is. If you look at the foreign players who have come in, the likes of Matti Steinmann are fairly young for foreign players in this league.”

The Nigerian likely to be included in the final squad in the next match against Odisha FC on Sunday.

ARINDAM DEDICATED HIS AWARD TO HIS MOTHER

30.12.20: The goalkeeper of ATK Mohun Bagan, Arindam Bhattacharjee had a heroic perforfance against Chennaiyin FC in an important group League match of Indian Super League at Goa. Arindam came as a barrier between Chennaiyin and ATK Mohun Bagan had some fantastic saves which help his team to climb at the pole position of the League table. Arindam was rightly adjudged at the Hero of the Match keeping his team unbeaten against Chennaiyin.



In a interwiew with the club media Arindam said,"To me, the prize of being the best twice is equally glorious. We could not have become the champion if we had not beaten Chennaiyin in the final last year. And this time we would not have reached the top of the league table if we did not keep our goal intact. It would have been better if we could win the match. We are not unhappy even in the draw. Our goal was to finish the year being at the top of the league table and we are successful in that.”

Arindam dedicated his award to his mother in her birthday. While answering to a question he said, "I am dedicating the award as the man of the match to my mother Antara Bhattacharya. Wednesday was my mother's birthday. After coming back to the hotel on Tuesday night, I wished my mom and witnessed her birthday cake cutting in a video call. That time I told my mother I am not at home. I am sending you the Man of the Match the Match prize as a gift from Goa. After my father died, my mother is my inspiration.”

Regarding his performance on Tuesday night Arindam said, "I didn't notice how many goals I saved in the game against Chennaiyin. There is no special achievement in this. But I saw on TV that I saved seven times. But in my opinion, it was difficult to save the two balls floating in the air. I have caught the eye of many because I saved the goal yesterday. In fact, from behind, a goalkeeper must organize the defense in various ways as well."

ATK Mohun Bahgan are at the top of the ISL table with 17 points from eight matches.

PLAYERS RELEASED BY ATK MOHUN BAGAN AND SC East Bengal

29.12.20: The second phase of transfer window will start from January 2021 when the clubs and the footballers will have the option to seek for a transfer in a new destination.

Meanwhile, ATK Mohun Bagan released wing back Ankit Mukherjee who was in a long term deal. According to the club sources Ankit was released as per mutual agreement. Ankit is likely to join SC East Bengal shortly. The central backs Rino Anto and Raju Gaikwad are in trail at SC East Bengal camp at Goa are likely to be included in the squad.

SC East Bengal released nine of their Indian footballers are in search of new footballers as their replacement. Nongdamba Naorem, the young midfielder of Kerala Blasters FC will join ATK Mohan Bagan in the January transfer window. Naorem was an important member of I League winning Mohun Bagan squad last year.

OUR AIM IS TO STAY AT TOP OF THE LEAGUE TABLE: MCHUGH

1.12.20: After a win in the Derby against the arch rival SC East Bengal, the footballers of ATK Mohun Bagan are all set to play their third match agaist Odisha FC on Thursday evening. ATK Mohun Bagan have to play next two matches within a short span of five days. Odisha FC are not a new opornant of ATK Mohun Bagan. The Spanish coach Antonio Habas had a close view of Orissa team in their last two matches.



The midfeilder of ATK Mohun Bagan Carl McHugh were adjudged as the 'Man of The Match' in the Derby. The midfeilder of Ireland are keen to continue the winning run in the up coming matches of his team. In an interview with ATK Mohun Bagan media, Carl McHugh said, "I am honoured to became the 'Man of The Match in such a historic Derby and I am proud of it. But more then that I was happy to play in the Derby and our team defeating a strong team like SC East Bengal and reached at the top of the league table."

Regarding the coming matches in the league and his team, ATK Mohun Bagan, McHugh said, "Our aim is to win the Orissa match and to keep our position in the league. We cannot be complacent about anything right away. I am adjudged as the 'Man of The Match' in the derby, but any one from our team could have been the best in the match. Everyone is here to give their best."

Carl was injured after playing only five matches in the last season. But he has returned in the feild after a surjery. As he said that he has prepared himself physically and mentally before the tournament and now is fully fit to marshall in the ATK Mohun Bagan's midfeild.

ATK MOHUN BAGAN LAUNCH MOBILE APP

28.11.20 : ATK Mohun Bagan launched their Official Mobile App on the eve of the first Kolkata derby in the Hero Indian Super League which they went on to win 2-0. The club is keen to engage its large supporter base through the year. Available on both Apple App Store and Google Play Store it is a tool for the Mariners to stay instantly updated with information about their beloved club.

Developed in collaboration with Fanisko, the fan engagement partner of ATK Mohun Bagan, it will enable the fans of the green and maroon to keep abreast of the club's fortunes in the League while also providing an immersive Fan zone experience with quizzes, polls and trivia. It is also a gateway to official club merchandise and exclusive content. The club intends to keep adding interactive features and games in the immediate future.

Redeem Tlang Show Caused

28.11.2020 - ISL PRESS RELEASE : All India Football Federation (AIFF) Disciplinary Committee has issued a Show Cause notice to FC Goa's Redeem Tlang for his direct red card incident against Mumbai City FC in the Hero ISL.



Tlang's sending-off offence - a high boot on MCFC's Hernan Santana, was referred to the AIFF body. Upon analysing the video, the Disciplinary Committee concluded it was a serious foul play - a tackle that endangered the safety of an opponent. The player has been asked to show cause as to why no additional sanction be imposed upon him, in accordance with the regulatory provisions of the AIFF Disciplinary Code.\

Tlang will remain ineligible for selection as he serves an automatic one-match ban in FC Goa's next game against NEUFC on November 30.

DR SANJIV GOENKA'S MASSAGE AFTER WINNING THE DERBY

27.11.20: The principle owner of ATK Mohun Bagan Dr Sanjiv Goenka are truely delighted after the Derby as he said in the ATK Mohun Bagan media,



" I am delighted that the first Kolkata Derby has gone ATK Mohun Bagan's way. It's a tribute to the fantastic effort putting by the coach and the team. And a great support by all the fans of ATK Mohun Bagan. Thank you for keeping your faith in us."

COUNTDOWN BEGINS FOR THE FIRST EVER ISL DERBY

25.11.20: Indian football are in the verge of another mile stone. The two top clubs of Indian football, SC East Bengal and ATK Mohun Bagan, will meet against each other in the first ever Derby of the Indian Super League.

These two clubs had played more than three hundred important and truly competitive matches in the past, but the match on Friday evening has an historic importance. This is the hundred years of Kolkata Derby between SC East Bengal and ATK Mohun Bagan since these two club played the first match in the year 1921. In fact the inclusion of SC East Bengal and ATK Mohun Bagan the top two clubs in Indian Super League has transformed the dimension of the tournament to a great extent.

This will be the second occasion when a Kolkata Derby will be played at Goa. In 2nd of March, 1999 a National League match between the arch rivals of Kolkata played at Fatorda stadium, Margao.

The the arch rivals of Kolkata, East Bengal and Mohun Bagan played many important tournaments. The results of the first match between the arch rivals are here:




Many important goals scored in Kolkata Derby in the past. The leading goal scorers of the Derby are:

TOP GOAL SCORER IN DERBY
BAICHUNG BHUTIA
FOR EAST BENGAL: 13
FOR MOHUN BAGAN :6
TOTAL: 19

JOSE RAMIREZ BARETO
FOR MOHUN BAGAN: 17
TOTAL: 17

CHIMA OKORIE:
FOR EAST BENGAL: 10
FOR MOHUN BAGAN: 6
TOTAL: 16

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF GOALS SCORED BY A TEAM
EAST BENGAL: IFA SHEILD (1975) 5-0
MOHUN BAGAN: I LEAGUE (2009) 5-3

All eyes will be at Tilok maidan, Vasco on Friday evening as the millons of supporters and football fans will enjoy the live actions of the biggest Derby of Asia in different channels and in web portals. This will be the first occasion when a Kolkata Derby were forced to organise in a close door stadium under bio bubble following the pandemic situation world wide. It will be a compelete different scenerio after, more than 1,31,781 hardcore fans witnessed a Kolkata Derby in Fedaration Cup semi final in 1997 at jam packed Yubabharati Kriangan, Kolkata.

I KNOW THE IMPORTANCE OF THIS DERBY: ROY KRISHNA

25.11.20: The ace striker of ATK Mohun Bagan, Roy Krishan are planning to play in a free mind against SC East Bengal in his first Derby on Friday at Tilak maidan. Krishna, after scoring the all important goal in the opening match against Kerala Blasters FC are now preparing for the Derby. The 33 years old striker from Fiji are confident of winning the match against Robbie Fowler's team. In an interview with the ATK Mohun Bagan media he expressed his views regarding the Derby.

" I have never played against SC East Bengal coach Robbie Fowler's team. But I was with him for three months. At that time I had just started my career as a footballer. I went for a trail to Queensland fury. He was the coach of the team then. I did not know any foreign players of East Bengal. I have played with Balwant Singh and Shehnaj Singh," Roy Krishna said.

While talking about SC East Bengal's defense Krishna said, "I have never played against the defense of SC East Bengal. I think this will go in favour of me. Mainly because if I know I will be worried about them. Now I can play in free mind and with out pressure. I know the importance and majesty of this Derby. Nevertheless, it feels personal and it is an important match of the league. We have to win and we are preparing for that."

Roy Krishna played in A League before he joined ATK last year. He was an important member of the ISL champions ATK in the 2019-20, scored 15 goals in 21 matches he played.

SC EAST BENGAL'S SUCCESS DEPEND ON THEIR FOREIGN FOOTBALLERS

25.11.20: SC East Bengal will start their Indian Super League campaign on 27th November against their arch rival ATK Mohun Bagan after a delayed entry in the competition. It is indeed a good effort by SC East Bengal team management to depute a highly professional coaching team under the leadership of Robbie Fowler, who proved his managerial ability within a very short span.

In addition to the coaching team SC East Bengal hires a forensic and sport psychologist, Nicola McCalliog, to the support the team. She is currently part of the player welfare team as a consultant for several leading English Premier League football clubs and Fowler's Education and Football Academy.

SC East Bengal recruited some important foreign footballers from EPL and A league along with a group of Indian footballers. Interestingly the none of the Indian footballers are a member of the current Indian national team. They are not even a regular member of the last years ISL teams. Though SC East Bengal signed footballers like Jeje Lalpeklua, Balwant Singh, Debjit Majumdar, Md Rafiq, Shehnaj Singh and Eugeneson Lyngdoh, but these footballers had a limited exposure in the last season. The Indian footballers are recruited before the joining of Robbie Fowler and before the clubs inclusion in ISL.

SC East Bengal performance will depend heavily on their six foreign footballers recruited so far. In central defense Scot Nevil from Brisbrane Roar, Danny Fox from Wigan AC, Anthony Pilkington from Norwich City Jacques Maghoma and Matti Steinmann from Wellington Phoenix will be in charge of the midfield, while Aaron Amadi Holloway will be in the striking zone along with Jeje and Balwant.

These foreign footballers had a good success record in EPL or in A league, are exceptionally good in their position. But these foreign footballers did not play in India ever before. The success of SC East Benagl in their new mission will depend how these footballers can perform in the hot and humid conditions of Goa.

SC EAST BENGAL WILL PLAY FOR GREAT SHIRT AND FANS: ROBBIE FOWLER

26.11.20: The Liverpool legend Robbie Fowler will going to start his mission in India on Friday evening with a Derby when his team SC East Bengal will face the challenge of ATK Mohun Bagan in the first ever match in Indian Super League.



The term Derby is quite familiar with Robbie Fowler. As a footballer Fowler had the experience of playing Derbies in EPL in matches like Liverpool vs Everton,Manchester United versus Leeds United,and in Manchester derby while playing for Manchester City. Fowler had a record of scoring number of goals for his teams in important Derby matches in England. But here in India he will be in the dugout of SC East Bengal equipped with his strategies and experience.

MEANWHILE SC EAST BENGAL ANNOUNCES, CENTRAL DEFENDER DANNY FOX WILL LEAD THE TEAM IN DERBY AGAINST ATK MOHUN BAGAN.

Robbie Fowler believes, the Derby on Friday evening is significant to him. He wants a winning start in the first ever match of SC East Bengal in ISL. While interacting he said, "It's a massive game not because we are playing against ATK Mohun Bagan, it's important to us because it's our first game as a team," he says. "It's a big game. It's huge for the fans. It's probably one of the biggest games in India. But it's also a chance for us to go out there and show everyone what type of team we are. The type of game where we can show our identity and what we are working on, on the training pitch.

It's an incredibly tough game for us to start. We are massively behind all the teams in terms of preparations. Massively behind in terms of playing games. ATKMB have played a game and we haven't, so we are coming into the season relatively new. No one has a clue how we are going to play, what type of team we are. It's up to us now to go out there and set a bit of a marker. We can do that. Because we got a great work ethic, a great team spirit. The players' attitudes are absolutely first class. We can't wait to get started. It's been a long time. We have done all the work. We have come so far and we are ready."

The match will be played in a close door stadium as the millions of fans will witness the match in Television or in web portals. The supporters will be far away from the pitch. As the 45 years old Robbie Fowler said, "We know the fans can't be there. Certainly not in person. But I have no doubt that in spirit, they are going to be there 120 per cent with us. We can feel the support. We can feel the love. We as a staff and we as a team are very grateful for the support and I hope that will continue. We will be playing not only for the great shirt that we wear but also for the fans who are instrumental in a lot of things this club does."

The match will kick off at 7.30 PM, IST.

THE FOREIGNERS OF ATK MOHUN BAGAN ARE DETERMINED FOR A WIN IN DERBY

24.11.20: The countdown begins, as the first ever Derby of the top tier league in Indian football is just seventy two hours away. The footballers at the ATK Mohun Bagan camp at Goa are preparing themselves under head coach Antonio Habas for Friday night.



The foreign footballers of ATK Mohun Bagan did not have the opportunity to play a Derby, nor they witnessed Kolkata Derby between the arch rivals during their stay at Kolkata. Though they are confident and determind to earn three points against SC East Bengal.

In a discussion with the club media the three important members of the squad expressed their views:

EDUARDO GRACIA
"I have not played against the foreigners who came to play in SC East Bengal.But I have heard that they are good footballers. After a long time we played a match on last Friday. We are confident for the Derby after winning the first match against Kerala Blasters. Now we are preparing for the Derby. Our team will be more organised as the competition progress."

TIRI
"I do not know the foreigners who will play for SC East Bengal. I do not have the opportunity to watch their game. I have seen Jeje and Balwant Singh since I am playing in ISL for the last six years. Derby is always a difficult match. But we will return to the dressing room with three points and try to keep our goal intact. I wanted to play with professional footballer like Sandesh Jhingan, which has come true now."

BRAD INMAN
In last season I played under the coaching of SC East Bengal's Robbie Fowler. In Brisbrane Roar I and Robbie Fowler were together but now he is oppornant team. Though Fowler is a great coach but on Friday night he will be my oppornant.I am mentally prepared to defeat him at any cost."

ATK Mohun Bagan will play their second match in the league against their arch rival SC East Bengal on Friday evening.

AIFF DISCIPLINARY COMMITTEE WARNS AHMED JAHOUH

24.11.20: The Disciplinary Committee of AIFF reviewing the direct red card incident involving Mumbai City FC midfielder Ahmed Jahouh in Hero ISL Match #2 NEUFC vs MCFC played on November 21 in Bambolim, has cautioned the player with a warning that in event of any repetition of such act, exemplary sanctions might be imposed in accordance with regulatory provisions of the AIFF Disciplinary Code.

The AIFF body deemed Jahouh’s first-half reckless tackle on NorthEast United FC player Khassa Camara, a serious foul play offence, endangering the safety of the opponent on field, after the video footage of the incident was sent for review.

While Jahouh has been let off without any further disciplinary action for the time being, he will serve an automatic 1-game suspension following his sending-off on Saturday.

CHENNAIYIN FC JOIN HANDS WITH ACKO INSURANCE AS ASSOCIATE SPONCER

21.11.20: Chennaiyin FC announces that India's leading digital general insurance company, ACKO General Insurance, as club's Associate Sponsor for 2020-21 season as Official Insurance Partner. ACKO has more than 60 million unique customers since its inception in 2016, while also holding the distinction of being India's first digital insurer.



The Vice President - Marketing, ACKO General Insurance, Ashish Mishra said, “We are thrilled to partner with Chennaiyin FC for the upcoming ISL season. Chennaiyin FC is one of the most successful football clubs in the country, with a huge fanbase, making it the right choice for us. This partnership is aligned with our current focus on the Chennai market, as we expect Chennai customers to discover the benefits of great customer service and extremely low prices of an ACKO car or bike Insurance. We expect growth for digital insurance to come from cities like Chennai where digital adoption is higher than most cities." Two time champions Chennaiyin FC ,will play the first match on 24th November against Jamshedpur FC.

SC EAST BENGAL TIED UP WITH TOP TECH AS ASSOCIATE SPONCER

21.11.20: SC East Bengal are now tied up with TopTech TMT as an associate sponsor. TopTech TMT is a leading player in India’s steel industry for several years.



The Directorof TopTech, Ashish Beriwala feels proud for the association with SC East Bengal as he said, "Toptech, the fastest growing TMT brand and the manufacturer of original X ribs TMT, is incredibly excited to team up with the original fighters of Indian football, SC East Bengal. The red-yellow brigade’s passion to be number one is shared by TOPTECH and hopefully this association will help them reach their goal."

SC East Bengal will play the first match of the competition against arch rival ATK Mohun Bagan on 27th November at Tilak Maidan, Goa.

INDINEWS JOINS FC GOA AS TITTLE SPONSOR

21.11.20: FC Goa announced INDINEWS as the Club’s Title Sponsor for the 2020-21 seventh edition of Hero Indian Super League. The logo of INDINEWS, the online sports news portal will appear on the chest of the club shirt throughout the the season.



Though INDINEWS is an online portal but this will be the first ever appearance in Indian football. The aim to further popularise Indian football, INDINEWS.COM will be providing footballing news and updates as the Gaurs look to reclaim the ISL League Winners Shield and get their hands on their first ISL title.

NITA AMBANI'S WELCOME ADDRESS BEFORE THE OPENING MATCH OF ISL

20.11.20: The Founder and Chairperson of Football Sports Development Limited, Mrs Nita Ambani, welcomed the resumption football in India as Hero Indian Super League kicks off in Goa today.



In her massage through Star Sports Mrs Ambani said, “I am proud to announce that ISL will become the first sporting event of such large scale to be organized in our home country, India. We are overjoyed to bring the League back into your homes once again and broadcast it in over 80 countries outside of India,”

"The merger of ATK with Mohun Bagan, and the entry of our 11th club SC East Bengal, has reaffirmed our faith in the ecosystem we are creating for Indian football. An ecosystem that is already showing results internationally, and has given us our own Indian footballing heroes to look up to, from the likes of Sandesh Jinghan, Anirudh Thapa, Sahal and the promising youngsters like Sumit Rathi, Amarjit Singh Kiyam, Narender Gahlot and many more.” Mrs Ambani added.

Mrs Nita Ambani furthur added, "We will miss the fans in the stadium, the roars and waves. You have shown up in huge numbers year after year and brought the grounds alive with your passion and support. But your safety is of utmost importance to us. We take pride in our fans and have planned a wonderful mix of broadcast innovations and digital engagements, so that you can be close to your favourite players and clubs.”

ISL 2020-21 promises to be the most exciting season with the addition of two iconic clubs in Indian football history – Mohun Bagan and East Bengal.

ISL WILL BE TELECAST LIVE IN 82 TERRITORIES WORLDWIDE

ISL MEDIA RELEASE: The much awaited seventh edition of the Hero Indian Super League (ISL) kicks off on November 20, 2020 with live action to be telecasted and live streamed in 82 territories across the world. Acknowledging the love and support of fans globally, ISL will be brought to 82 international territories through 5 partners across TV and digital platforms.

The league has partnered with global sports broadcasters to bring the action live to millions of Indian football fans across geographies. In addition to international markets including USA and Australia, fans across Continental Europe, Central Asia, Far East, South East Asia, and Asia Pacific can also tune in to enjoy India’s premier football league live.

List of international broadcasters and live streaming partners:

ESPN + : USA & Canada
Fox Sports : Australia
1Play Sports (YouTube channel and Facebook page): Singapore, Indonesia (Genflix), Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Philippines, Brunei, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, Hong Kong, Macau.
Yupp TV: Albania, Andorra, Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Faroe Islands, Italy, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Malta, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, San Marino, Vatican City, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tajikistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, Uzbekistan.
Digicel PNG (TVWan Action) : Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Solomons, Samoa, Cook Islands, Vanuatu, American Samoa, Kiribati, Tuvalu, Niue, Tokelau, Tahiti, New Caledonia, Tonga, Nauru
Asianet Plus: Middle East
Jalsha Movies SD: Middle East and Bangladesh
Jalsha Movies HD: Maldives and Bangladesh

ISL marks the resumption of live sports action in India with the entire season being played in Goa behind closed doors. The 2020-21 season features 115 games amongst 11 teams, with the inclusion of Kolkata giants ATK Mohun Bagan and SC East Bengal.

Official broadcasting partner Star Network will exclusively telecast ISL matches in India on Star Sports 1 SD & HD, Star Sports 2 SD & HD (English); Star Sports Hindi 1 SD & HD, Star Sports 3, Star Gold 2 (Hindi), Asianet Plus, Asianet Movies (Malayalam); Star Sports Bangla; Star Sports Kannada; Star Sports Tamil; Star Sports Telugu and Star Sports Marathi. Online streaming will be available on Disney+ Hotstar VIP and JioTV.

THE VIEWS OF BENGAL BRIGADE OF ATK MOHUN BAGAN

18.11.20: ATK Mohun Bagan will play the inaugural match of the seventh edition of ISL against Kerala Blasters FC on 20th November and will face the challenge of the arch rival SC East Bengal on the much awaited Derby in the second match. The Spanish coach of the team Antonio Habas has finalised seven footballers in the squad who are basically from Bengal and played for 131 years old prestigious club of the country Mohun Bagan, before the merger with ATK. Some of them has had the experience of playing in I League as well as in ISL.



These footballers are well aware of the football culture and legacy of the top two football clubs since their childhood. Seven footballers from Bengal know the importance of Kolkata Derby while dawning the green and maroon jersy.

The defender of ATK Mohun Bagan, Pritam Kotal is one such footballer who played for Mohun Bagan and ATK before the merger of the club. He knows the impotance of Mohun Bagan colour and the pressure a footballer had to take during the course of a match. Pritam played almost all the important tournaments for Mohun Bagan and knows what the fans expect from the footballers in a Derby. Pritam is an experienced campaigner, who played for Mohun Bagan for five years before joining ATK. He is thrilled to get back in Mohun Bagan jersey are of the opinion that ATK Mohun Bagan is a well combined team and are capable doing good even in the international circuit.

ATK Mohun Bagan goalkeeper Arindam Bhattacharjee is an experienced goalkeeper who had the taste of winning I league and ISL in fifteen years of experience. Arindam played for Mohun Bagan before he joined Churchill Brothers of Goa. Arindam is thrilled and eager to play the first ISL Derby for ATK Mohun Bagan as he feels it is alaways good to play for the top two clubs of the country. Arindam and Pritam feels that to play a ISL Derby will be of great experience.

Pranay Halder is another experienced footballer of ATK Mohun Bagan who wants to win the Derby and ISL. To him the name Mohan Bagan is simply a passion for the millons of fans worldwide. He is waiting for the Derby day and is optimistic for a favourable result. Subasish Bose the defender of Indian national team wants to continue the tradition of not losing Derby match against the arch rival.

Prabir Das after recoving from injury had a successful season with the champion ATK in the concluding season. He was an important member of ISL champion ATK and wants to repeat of winning the mission.

ATK Mohun Bagan is now all set to start a successful mission in the forth coming seventh edition of the tournament.

KERALA BLASTERS FC ANNOUNCED THEIR CAPTAINS TODAY

18.11.2020 : Kerala Blasters FC announced their captains for the upcoming season. They are - Sergio Cidoncha, Costa Nhamoinesu and Jessel Carneiro.

Spanish Midfielder Sergio Cidoncha played for Kerala Blasters FC in last season before joining from Jamshedpur FC. Zimbabwean center back Costa is a experienced defender, who joined Kerala Blasters FC this season. Indian defender Jessel Carneiro have an excellent last season earn him for this cap. Goan left back was the only player who played all the matches with all minutes in last season for Kerala Blasters FC. He also made the most number of passes(746) for his team with 5 assists.

ISL WILL BE COMPETITIVE AND DIFFICULT THIS SEASON: SERGIO LOBERA

17.11.20: The Head coach of Mumbai City FC, Sergio Lobera in a virtual press conference on Tuesday afternoon discussed various aspects of his team, Mumbai City FC before the first match of the tournament against North East United on Saturday.



While answering to the media the Spanish coach said, "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.”

MUMBAI CITY FC SQUAD

GOALKEEPERS: Amrinder Singh, Nishit Shetty, Vikram Singh, Phurba Lachenpa.

DEFENDERS : Amey Ranawade, Valpuia, Mourtada Fall, Mehtab Singh, Mandar Rao Desai, Tondonba Singh, Mohamad Rakip, Sarthak Golui.

MIDFIELDERS : Ahmed Jahouh, Bidyananda Singh, Bipin Singh, Hernan Santana, Raynier Fernandes, Rowllin Borges, Sourav Das, Hugo Boumous, Cy Goddard, Asif Khan, Farukh Choudhary, Vignesh Dakshinamurthy, Vikram Partap Singh, Pranjal Bhumij.

FORWARDS : Adam Le Fondre, Bartholomew Ogbeche.

Sergio Lobera is satisfied with the teams progress as he observed during the practice session and is optimistic to do well in the tournament. “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,” the Head coach added.

Sergio Lobera promises for an attacking and attractive brand of football during the competetion. As he was answering to the media the Spanish coach said, “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.”

Sergio Lobera was also appreciative of ISL’s decision to include teams like ATK Mohun Bagan and SC East Bengal 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."

The Spanish coach are of the opinion that this will be most difficult and competitive season till now. He 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.” Sergio Lobera, the Spanish coach are quite positive as he promises an attacking and cometetive football in the forth coming edition of the tournament.

APOLLO TYRES TO CONTINUE AS CHENNAIYIN FC'S PRINCIPLE SPONSOR

16.11.20 : Apollo Tyre India’s one of the leading Tyre manufacturer, will continue its association with Chennaiyin FC, as their Principal Sponsor after signing a multi-year deal. Apollo Tyres came onboard as CFC's Principal Sponsor ahead of the 2017-18 ISL campaign.



Apollo Tyres has become synonymous with Chennaiyin FC 's success, that saw them win the 2017-18 ISL title, become the first ISL team to qualify for the prestigious AFC Cup in 2019, reaching the 2019 Super Cup final, and making it to the 2019-20 ISL final in stunning fashion following an incredible comeback in the league stage.

Satish Sharma, President, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa (APMEA), Apollo Tyres Ltd commented after the extension of agreement, "This has been a very fruitful association with Chennaiyin FC, wherein we have engaged and interacted with their large fan base, especially the youth, both in rural and urban areas. Multiple campaigns together have not only helped increase our brand visibility and acquisition of more customers, but moreover the club has also garnered more followers in their home state of Tamil Nadu and beyond. The extension of this partnership is mutually beneficial for both the brands, and for the upliftment of football as a sport."

The co-owner of Chennaiyin FC Abhishek Bachchan said, At Chennaiyin FC, we value relationships over anything else. And one such significant relationship has been with Apollo Tyres, our Principal Sponsor. It is testament to the mutual merit we see in continuing this relationship, that we're all set to help football progress further in Chennai and Tamil Nadu through our robust efforts. It is truly an exciting time for Indian football."

FIVE ISL CLUBS FAILED TO FULFILL CLUB LICENSING

15.11.20: AFC announced the results of club licensing 2020-21 season on Saturday where some of the clubs of Indian Super League failed to secure the target. It is understood that 11 clubs from ISL and 8 clubs from I league applied for club licensing for the season.

The ISL clubs who are successful in securing AFC as well as National license are, ATK Mohun Bagan, FC Goa, Bengaluru FC, Chennaiyin FC, Mumbai City FC and Jamshedpur FC.

The ISL clubs who failed to secure the licensing are North East United FC, Odisha FC, Kerala Blasters FC,SC East Bengal and Hyderabad FC.

Though AFC will give special relaxation to the clubs who failed to secure the license. These clubs can apply to AIFF mentioning they will fulfill all the criteria regarding club licensing successfully within 2021. In such condition AIFF may grant permission to the clubs to participate in the forth coming tournaments.

HABAS ANNOUNCES THE NAME OF FIVE FOOTBALLERS TO LEAD IN ISL

15.10.20: The Spanish coach of ATK Mohun Bagan, Antonio Habas are strict to his principle and ideology during the practice session or while implementing important decisions regarding team management with just a few days left for the opening match against Kerala Blasters FC on 20th November.



Antonio Habas today declared the name of five footballers who will lead the team in different matches of the forth coming competition. Out of the registered 27 footballers the name of Edu Gracia, Roy Krishna, Arindam Bhattacharjee, Pritam Kotal and Sandesh Jhingan is finalised to lead the team. We have seen in the past that Antonio Habas did not depend on the single captain theory in a tournament.

Habas does not believe about big names or star signings. He doesn’t like to label himself as an attacking or defensive head coach either. What really matters to him is discipline from his players not just on the pitch but also off it.

ATK Mohun Bagan will play their opening match of the seventh edition of ISL against Kerala Blasters FC. Antonio Habas have special sessions with his footballers in close door at the practice turf at Goa. All the 27 footballers are under his close eyes preparing for the opening match and the other matches of the tournament. Though ATK are the defending champions, but they failed to over come the challenge of Kerala Blasters in the last two matches in 2019-20. ATK lost the home as well as the away match against Kerala Blasters FC.

'I AM IN INDIA WITH A CHALLENGE': BRAD INMAN

13.11.20: The first ever Derby in Indian Super League between the two iconic clubs of Indian football ATK Mohun Bagan and SC East Bengal will kick off on the 27th of November at Tilak Maidan, Goa. Though both the clubs had played a number of memorable and competitive Derbies in the last one hundred years in different competitions.



The footballers are enthusiastic and exited to be a part of the historic match. Even the foreign footballers are well aware of the importance of Kolkata Derby. ATK Mohun Bagan's midfielder Bradden Inman is one of the footballer who played under Robbie Fowler,the current coach of SC East Bengal. Inman was an important member of Brisbane Roar, the club which was managed by Robbie Fowler in the recently concluded season.

Bradden Inman and Tiri are the two foreign recruits who were not a part of the last year's team. But as Tiri played in ATK under Antonio Habas some years back, Inman is the only footballer who is a debutante in the Kolkata team. Inman played for New Castle United and Pitsburg United before he joined A League club Brisbane Roar.

In a discussion with the club media the 28 old midfielder said, Robbie Fowler is good and respectable coach. "We were in the same dugout at Brisbane Roar last year, planned strategies and enjoyed some good victories. But I will be playing against him in the Derby on 27th for 90 minutes. We are eager and confident to earn three points against SC East Bengal in the historic Kolkata Derby." Though Inman does not want to take any unnecessary pressure. Inman has had the experience of playing Derbies in England and he knows how challenging it is. But the Kolkata Derby is slightly different, as Brad Inman says he knows what the fans are expecting from the footballers in a Derby day.

Inman are of the opinion that as his team is the reigning champions, so all the teams of the competition will give extra effort against ATK Mohun Bagan. "We are ready to accept the challange. In fact I am here in India with a challange I want to be a successful footballer in the league." the midfielder said.

Inman feels that ATK Mohun Bagan is a balanced side with good and talented footballers in every department. Above all, the Spanish coach Antionio Habas is there to guide the team through out the tournament. Brad Inman did not played with or against the two successful footballers of ATK Mohun Bagan, David Willams and Roy Krishna who proved them successful in the last edition guiding the team to win the crown.

'WE RESPECT THE LEGACY IN THE NEW JERSEY': SANJIV GOENKA

12.10.20: ATK Mohun Bagan enveils the new kit ahead of the seventh edition of Indian Super League. The new home as well as away jersey symbolises the iconic green and maroon colour which is retainted after a meeting between the Board of Directors of ATK Mohun Bagan Private Limited. This was intimated in a official Press Release of the club.



There was a lot of discussion regarding the new jersey of ATK Mohun Bagan in the past few days. But, finally the culture which was made for the last 131 years was preserved. The Brand Identity and Brand Elements continue to uphold the rich history and legacy of one of the oldest club of the country. The sentiments of the millions of suppoters of Mohun Bagan have been honoured when the same logo of 'Pal Tola nauka' is retained in the jersey.In addition the word 'Champion' was embrossed in the jersey to honour the previous crowns which was won by ATK twice within the span of six years.

The principle owner of ATK Mohun Bagan, Dr Sanjiv Goenka in his massage said, "My pronams to the many legends who have over the decades contributed to the great legacy of Mohun Bagan. We respect legacy and have retainted the same jersey which generation down the line have embraced adored and loved. My dream is to establish ATK Mohun Bagan as a world class team which earns its place in the international circuit."

In the meeting of the Board of Directors of ATK Mohun Bagan, it was decided that the company will invest to build up a world class football academy in Bengal which will help the local footballers to devolope themselves. ATK Mohun Bagan Soccer School will be launched across the country for high quality football education.

FC GOA IN A STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH RB LEIPZIG

12.10.20: FC Goa announces a three-year strategic partnership with Bundesliga giants RB Leipzig that will help garner opportunities both in the football and business spheres for the two clubs.



RB Leipzig has been one of the rising forces in German football in recent times ever since their formation in 2009. The club worked its way up the league structure and within a period of 7 years, secured promotion to the Bundesliga by 2016. A season later, in 2017/18 the Club ensured a place in the UEFA Champions League. The 2019/20 season again saw them create history, reaching the semi-finals of the premier European competition.

With a vision to grow the beautiful game, the coming together of two of the biggest names in India and Germany presents an opportunity to exchange ideas and make footballing knowledge more easily accessible. The primary focus of the partnership will be Youth Development.

During this period of collaboration, coaches from RB Leipzig’s Academy will be welcomed to Goan shores to impart knowledge via workshops. FC Goa will also be sending coaches and players from the club’s youth set-up for further training and learning the intricacies of the game at RB Leipzig’s Youth Academy.

FC Goa and RB Leipzig will work in tandem not only to help each other to grow internationally, but also for the development of football in India. The partnership will see both clubs launch a nationwide Soccer Camp programme. The FC Goa National Soccer Camps, both online and offline, supported by RB Leipzig will make superior footballing skills & knowledge accessible to all football enthusiasts across India.

IMPORTANT RULES ADOPTED BY FSDL IN ISL 2020-21

11.10.20: Indian Super League 2020-21 edition is the return of the first major live sporting action in India after the COVID-19 pandemic. The seventh edition of Indian Super League will have some important modifications and plenty of challenges for the players, management and organizers, who will be in a bio-secure bubble throughout the league. This decision was made for safety and security of all who will be engaged in the tournament at Goa.



GOA TO HOST, IN PLACE OF MULTI CITY TOURNAMENT
This edition will see three stadiums of Goa will host all the matches in place of the matches played in different cities of the country. FSDL has decided to host the matches close doors in Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda, the Tilak Nagar Stadium in Vasco and the GMC Stadium in Bambolim with strict training and social distancing protocols in all places.

NUMBER OF MATCHES INCREASED
The matches are increased to 115 in place 95 last season after the inclusion of ATK Mohun Bagan and SC East Bengal in the competition. All the teams will play each other in a double round-robin format with the top four teams in the standings at the end of the regular season qualifying for the playoffs.

NEW SUBSTITUTION RULES
FIFA has changed the rule of players substitution due to Covit 19 pandemic. The number of substitutes has been increased from three to five, whereas nine players can sit at the dugout during the course of a match. Teams can use their five substitutes over a maximum of three intervals.

FOREIGN PLAYERS RULE
All the teams must have a minimum of five and a maximum of seven foreign players in their squad with one of them must be Asian Football Confederation (AFC) affiliated. A maximum of five of these foreign players can be on the field at any point of a game along with a minimum of six Indians.

DEVELOPMENT FOOTBALLERS RULE
All teams are required to have a minimum of two ‘Developmental Players’ –- players who were born on or after January 1, 2000 –- in their match day teams.

With just a few days left for the start of the top tier league of the country the teams are busy preparing themselves following the strict protocols adopted by FSDL and administration.

M P BIRLA CEMENT JOINS HAND WITH ATK MOHUN BAGAN

11.10.20: The Cement Division of Birla Corporation Limited, MP Birla Cement will partner ATK Mohun Bagan in the seventh edition of Indian Super League which will going to start on and from the 20th of November at Goa. The news regarding the partnership with MP Birla Group was intimated in a Press Release by ATK Mohun Bagan. The Logo of M P Birla will be visible on the right side of the chest of the team's match jersey.



M P Birla Cement with the umbrella brand is one of the leading brands in Cement industry. This tie-up is a significant step in the world of sports for Birla Corporation Limited. An active participation in the world of sports is expected to drive visibility for the brand significantly amongst its target audience.

The President, Sales & Logistics, Birla Corporation Limited, Mr Dev Banerjee, in his massage said, “We are delighted to partner India's premier football club ATK Mohun Bagan. Football is fast growing in popularity in India and ATK Mohun Bagan will play a significant role in promoting the sport and its popularity. We are happy to partner them in this journey”.

So, the two big clubs of Kolkata, ATK Mohun Bagan and SC East Bengal are now in association with the two big brands of Cement industry.

UPCOMING ISL PROMISES TO BE BIGGER

ISL MEDIA-10.11.20: With the 2020-21 edition of the Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL) now just 10 days away, preparations for the new season are in full swing. The upcoming campaign promises to be bigger than ever before following the expansion of the league with the addition of SC East Bengal and ATK Mohun Bagan. Hero ISL 2020-21 will now witness an unprecedented 115 games, up from 95 last season. All clubs will play each other in a double round-robin format with the top four clubs in the standings at the end of the regular season qualifying for the playoffs.



The new campaign, in fact, marks the return of the first major live sporting action in India after the COVID-19 pandemic, making Hero ISL 2020-21 a unique season with plenty of challenges for the players, management and organizers, who will be in a bio-secure bubble for the entirety of the league. With that in mind, here’s all you need to know about what promises to be another action-packed season.

The maximum number of substitutes has been increased from three to five, keeping in mind the welfare of players amid the ongoing pandemic. Teams can use their five substitutes over a maximum of three intervals, and it doesn’t include the changes at the half-time break.

All clubs must have a minimum of five and a maximum of seven foreign players in their squad. Among the foreign players in the squad, at least one of them must be Asian Football Confederation (AFC) affiliated. A maximum of five of these foreign players can be on the field at any point of a game along with a minimum of six Indians. Furthermore, all clubs are required to have a minimum of two ‘Developmental Players’ –- players who were born on or after January 1, 2000 –- in their matchday teams.

Hero ISL 2020-21 will also be entirely staged in the football passionate state of Goa. Keeping in mind the safety and well-being of everyone involved, Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) decided to host the new season behind closed doors across three stadiums in Goa. The Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda, the Tilak Nagar Stadium in Vasco and the GMC Stadium in Bambolim are the three venues that have been chosen to host the matches with strict training and social distancing protocols in place.

The schedule for first 11 rounds of matches has been released already and features six double-headers – all of which will be played on Sundays. The opening match of the campaign on November 20 will witness Kerala Blasters FC going up against ATK Mohun Bagan at the GMC Stadium.

MOSCHIP TECHNOLOGIES TIED UP WITH KERALA BLASTERS AS PRINCIPLE SPONSOR

10.11.20: The seventh edition of Indian Super League are just some days away to kick off. Kerala Blasters FC, today announce its partnership with MosChip Technologies, India’s first publicly traded fabless semiconductor company as their Main Sponsor.



Formed in 1999, MosChip caters to Aerospace & Defense, Consumer Electronics, Automotive, Medical and Networking & Telecommunication sectors. Over the years, MosChip has established themselves as a preferred partner for technology and excellence, supporting clients with on-time delivery and an unparalleled service.

Kerala Blasters FC wil use the logo of MosChip will be featured on the under-collar of the Official jersey of the club.

Chennaiyin FC launch official app; introduce innovative fan engagement platform

11/11/20 : CFC PRESS RELEASE : Chennaiyin FC today launched their official application, to provide the club's supporters with updates, information, and a holistic fan engagement platform ahead of the 2020-21 Indian Super League season. Complete with football quizzes, trivia games and polls, the CFC official app is now available for free download on the Google Play Store and Apple AppStore.



CFC official app users will enjoy instant updates on club news, exclusive content, and interactive polls. And the most exciting aspect of the app will be the Fan Zone that includes CFC and ISL games, trivia, filters and much more that can be enjoyed by supporters as they root for their Marina Machans virtually. The platform promises to be the perfect destination for fans to voice their support for the club through the many fun offerings like filters, polls, and live contests.

The app has been developed by Fanisko, CFC's official Fan Engagement Partner. ana.

PVR Cinemas to continue as Chennaiyin FC's Official Multiplex Partner

10.11.2020 - CFC PRESS RELEASE : Chennai, November 10, 2020: Chennaiyin FC is elated to announce that India's leading multiplex chain, PVR Cinemas, is set to continue as the club's Official Multiplex Partner for the 2020-21 season. The announcement comes at the most opportune time as movie theatres re-open across Tamil Nadu from November 10 onwards.



Being the movie exhibition industry leaders in the country and especially Tamil Nadu, PVR Cinemas is renowned for providing a premium experience for movie-goers. And being one of the most successful ISL teams with two titles to their name, Chennaiyin FC's ethos found the perfect match in PVR Cinemas last season with cinema aficionados and football lovers benefitting richly from the association.

CFC's ISL 2019-20 journey had all the ups and downs of a movie thriller - from the penultimate spot in the points table to putting together a formidable run and making the play-offs - with eventual heartbreak in the final, it was a near-fairytale finish. Reconvening in Goa ahead of the new season, Chennaiyin will be hoping it is a photo-finish this time around. However, it will be a season played behind closed doors, without fans.

Hence it will be the club's endeavour to provide its ardent supporters with an experience to remember through this partnership with PVR Cinemas, by bringing out innovative fan engagement initiatives through the same. "We enjoyed a fruitful relationship with PVR Cinemas off the pitch as the boys put up a stunning show to reach the final on it. There is real synergy between our brands and huge potential to reach the masses in Chennai and Tamil Nadu through the same. In this unique season, together we hope to give our fans as well as those going to the movies a fitting return in a safe and responsible manner," said CFC co-owner Vita Dani.

"In this celebratory festive season, we have two big announcements to make to add to the festivities in Chennai. We are delighted to announce that we have finally reopened our theatres in Tamil Nadu, and we are extremely happy to bring your favourite entertainment back - Cinema. It is also with great pleasure that we announce our collaboration with Chennaiyin FC for the second consecutive year. We are very proud of our association with CFC because of the enormous support they enjoy from the people of Chennai. We would also like to take this opportunity to wish Chennaiyin FC the very best for the upcoming ISL season. It is our sincere hope that they bring much happiness during this holiday season!" said Gautam Dutta, CEO of PVR Cinemas.

DESIGN SYMBOLISES ART & CULTURE IN ODISHA FC KIT

09.11.20: The Bhubaneswar based team in Indian Super League, Odisha FC announce the launch of new kits ahead of the seventh season of the Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL) scheduled to start from November 20 in Goa. The jersey designs are based on the art and culture of the eastern Indian state and celebrate the pure Odia spirit.



Mr. Rohan Sharma, President of Odisha FC in his statement said “Our kit this year is very special. We wanted to have our kit to have a connection to Odisha and exemplify the culture of Odisha, so every time a player or fan wears the kit there is a connection to Odisha. This year our kit is inspired by the beautiful artistic culture of Odisha and that beauty is interwoven on our kits. At the behest of our fans the color purple is incorporated into both our kits and will be a part of our kits going forward. Black and purple will be our official home kit color going forward as well. We are proud of the kit we designed this year and we hope you love it and wear our kit with Odiapride."

STEVEN TAYLOR TO LEAD ODISHA FC

7.11.20: Steven Taylor, the central defender from England will be leading the Bhubaneswar based club Odisha FC seventh edition of the Hero Indian Super League. This was announced by the Head coach of the team Stuart Baxter in a team meeting on Saturday.

In an Press Release Head Coach of Odisha FC Baxter said, "Steven will lead Odisha FC as captain for the upcoming season. As you already must have noticed in the training sessions, his intent to mentor the young players, commanding presence and winning mentality shall help the team enormously. I am sure that he will be one of the best leaders in the Indian Super League and the team shall be able to use his qualities to maximum effect."

Odisha FC will play the first match against Hyderabad FC on 23th of November at GMC Stadium Bambolim.

ATK MOHUN BAGAN ANNOUNCES SBOTOP.net AS PRINCIPLE SPONSOR

6.11.20: ATK Mohun Bagan today announced in a Press Release that SBOTOP.net as their Principal Team Sponsor for ISL 2020-21. SBOTOP.net offers the widest scope of coverage and content on cricket and football, as well as other top sporting events. From the Indian Premier League to the English Premier League and Champions League, it delivers all the most relevant news, views, and stories in the world of sports.


The SBOTOP.net logo will be visible on the front of the matchday and training team kits as well as on-ground. The club and the brand have planned innovative digital engagements through the season.

ATK Mohun Bagan begin their quest for the ISL title on the 20th of November against Kerala Blasters in the season opener before facing SC East Bengal in the hugely anticipated, mouth watering Kolkata derby, the first ever in the Indian Super League on the 27th of November.

I WANT TO BE A PART OF THE DERBY: EUGENESON LYNGDOH

6.11.20: SC East Bengal will play their opening match of Indian Super League 2020-21 against the arch rival ATK Mohun Bagan on 27th of November at Tilak Maidan, Goa. The footballers are preparing themselves at the SESA Academy ground under the close eyes of Head Coach Robbie Fowler and his team.


One of important member of SC East Bengal's squad is midfielder Eugeneson Lyngdoh. Eugeneson as a footballers of Bengaluru FC was awarded by FPAI as the "Best Footballer Of I League" in the year 2015, missed the matches in the last two season due to his injury. He is now fit enough and eager to serve for his team SC East Bengal.

In an interview with AIFF TV on Thursday evening, Eugeneson Lyngdoh expressed his views. While answering to a question regarding his current club, Lyngdoh said, " It is honour to represent SC East Bengal. Kids from my generation probably dream of playing this massive club. It's a honour to play in the jersey of SC East Bengal. We are hopeful to give our best for SC East Bengal."

Eugeneson is simply impressed and is hopeful to give his best in the forth coming league under Head Coach Robbie Fowler. As he said, "Robbie Fowler is a legend. We have seen him playing on TV and now we are preparing under his instruction. He made us comfortable, and has a great personality. He is communicating with us in the best possible way so that we are successful in the league."

Eugeneson Lyngdoh's prime object is to find a place in team and to play maximum number of matches in the forth coming competition. While answering to a question regarding Kolkata derby the midfielder of SC East Bengal said, " I cannot express my emotions before playing one of the greatest Derby of world football. It will be a great honour if I am selected to be a part on the Derby. Though this time the situation is different owing to pandemic. We may not see the stadium full of supporters but people from all over the world will follow the Derby."

Eugeneson Lyngdoh was spotted by Pradyun Reddy during a practice match against Shillong Lajong FC at Shillong and joined the club of the North Eastern state and proves himself within a very short time. Though, he was not regular in last two season's due to injury. But the promising midfielder is optimistic to show his class in the upcoming tournament.

EAST BENGAL INTRODUCE THREE SET OF KIT

02.11.20: SC East Bengal today introduce new sets of jersey prior to Indian Super League. The jerseys are designed by designer Meghna Nayak.


DESIGNER'S IDEA REGARDING THE KIT:
HOME KIT: The Home kit is a stylized version of the very flame in the club logo. This rendition in red and yellow continues to signal the dynamism and firepower of the team - adapting it to new design sensibilities while paying homage to the Club's history and traditions.

AWAY KIT: The Away kit in blue and white is a cheeky nod to the Ilish or Hilsa fish that is inextricably associated with families that famously feast on Hilsa after an East Bengal win. The design can be interpreted as fish scales, armour or water to depict the waters that flow between and forever connect East and West Bengal, and provide life and livelihood to its people. Most importantly, these very rivers, our lifeline, are over-polluted and cleaning the rivers and water bodies that sustain us is the need of the hour."


THIRD KIT: The pride, energy and power that the Tiger invokes, the uniqueness of its home - the Sunderbans, which protect our region from all sorts of environmental impacts and provide livelihoods to millions of people, was the perfect symbol for our third jersey.

WE ARE LOOKING FORWARD FOR THE TOUGH DERBY: FOWLER

31.10.20: The newly introduced team in Indian Super League 2020-21, SC East Bengal are on the training pitch from Friday onward at SESA Football Academy under Head Coach Robbie Fowler after completing a period of fourteen days quarantine. SC East Bengal will play against ATK Mohun Bagan on the 27th November in the first ever Derby in ISL in their opening match at Tilak Maidan.



While discussing regarding the first game against the arch rival ATK Mohun Bagan, the Head coach Robbie Fowler said, we have to play indeed a tough match against the defending champions on 27th November. It is a massive game for us and we cannot wait. We are looking forward for the Derby clash.

Robbie Fowler, the Head coach added, "We are weeks behind in term of preparation. But all we can do is to get the team as ready as we can. No pressure on our boys. We are new in the League. Let's put pressure on ATK Mohun Bagan. It will be a great start and we know what we need to do."

ANTONIO HABAS WANTS TO WIN BOTH DERBIES IN ISL

30.20.20: FSDL has published the fixture of the seventh edition of ISL 2020-21 today afternoon. ATK Mohun Bagan will play the inaugural match of the tournament against Kerala Blasters FC on the 20th of November.



The Head Coach of ATK Mohun Bagan Antonio Habas Lopaz was busy in practice session with his team when the schedule was published. The Spanish coach after the practice session at the Bambolim ground said that not ony the arch rival SC East Bengal, but he and his team is giving due respect and importance to all the teams of the tournament.

Antonio Habas is well aware of the importance of the Kolkata Derby which his team have to play on the 27th of November. While discussing with the club media Antonio Habas said he know how enthusiastic are the supporters of both the clubs during a Derby match. His strategy is win both the Derbies of the tournament and earn six points for the millions of supporters and team.

HYDERABAD FC IN A STRATEGIC TIE UP WITH MARBELLA FC

29.10.20 - HFC MEDIA: Indian Super League side Hyderabad FC announced today a strategic tie-up with Spanish club Marbella FC, with the clubs signing a three-year association. The Andalusia-based club currently plays in the Segunda División B, having narrowly missed out on promotion last season.



Hyderabad FC Co-Owner Varun Tripuraneni said, “Marbella FC has one of the top infrastructure facilities in not just Spain, but entire Europe. This strategic tie-up allows us to explore a lot of opportunities that will help Hyderabad FC on the technical side of the game. For starters, the top young players in our first and reserve team will head to Marbella for an extended training period, once travel opens up.”

Through this tie-up, Hyderabad FC shall be at liberty to avail the facilities and infrastructure of Marbella FC for conducting preseason for HFC’s first team players, and will also have the opportunity of utilizing their Medical personnel and facilities.

“The facilities and infrastructure will offer a great level of exposure for our players and the idea is to provide medium to long-term training experience and not just a short camp,” added Varun Tripuraneni.

Marbella FC General Manager Héctor Morales said, “This alliance with Hyderabad FC is a source of pride for Marbella FC. It will allow us to be in contact with one of the most important clubs from an emerging football market. We are convinced that this alliance will bring great benefits to both clubs. We are already working with Hyderabad FC to start this new adventure together as soon as possible.”

Apart from gaining their sporting and technical assistance, Hyderabad FC will also have options to loan players, as well as sign and invest in players strategically as part of the tie-up for both sides.

ANTONIO HABAS ARE ON CLOSE DOOR PRACTICE AT GOA

28.10.20: The footballers of ATK Mohun Bagan are preparing under Spanish coach Antonio Habas at the practice turf of Bambolim ground even in the scorching heat of Goa. Antonio Habas incidentally is the most successful coach in the history of Indian Super League who guided his team (ATK) to win the trophy twice out of the six tournaments played so far.

The Spanish coach is following tradition of preparing his team in close door even in the new normal situations. The surroundings are being covered with thick black sheets so that no one can see what is happening inside the practice ground from near by roads. Antonio Habas wants to keep secret his stategies especially the situation from dead ball moves and comers.

ATK Mohun Bagan are now practicing in two sessions even during Puja, which is likely to change from Thursday in order to avoid the heat and humidity at Goa. ATK Mohun Bagan are maintaining almost the same team except a few like Sandesh Jhingan, Subasish Bose, Glen Martins, Brad Inman. This has helped a lot for Habas while preparing for the seventh edition of the tournament.

The footballers are aware of the style of the Spanish coach, who himself have started situation and Positional practice within a very short time. It is expected that Roy Krishna and Brad Inman will start to train themselves after completing the quarantine period from Saturday onwards.

The footballers have had a memorable time in the evening during Puja. The team management arranged for special Bengali delicacies during the dinner which is enjoyed by the footballers.

MANOLO MARQUEZ JOINED HYDERABAD FC'S PRACTICE SESSION

27.10.20: Hyderabad FC Head Coach Manolo Marquez joined the squad and oversaw his first pre-season training session for the club, at HFC’s Training Ground in Guirim on Tuesday. The Spaniard was joined by his fellow overseas coaching staff who stepped on to the field after completing the necessary quarantine procedures.



Monalo after his first practice session told the club media, “Getting back to training felt really good. We spent a long time away from our passion and we spoke about the same with the staff before the start of the training session. I think everyone who loves football would enjoy getting back on to the fiel. The overseas players will obviously be very important for the team. They trained for the first time but I am really happy with the attitude of all the players, including the local players. I think the players are happy as well, as almost the entire team trained together.”

Apart from the staff, Manolo was also joined by the foreign players in the Hyderabad squad in Joel Chianese, Joao Victor, Lluis Sastre, Odei Onaindia, Fran Sandaza and Aridane Santana.

The practice session attended by Assistant Coach Xavi Gurri, who was the interim coach in the latter half last season, along with Thangboi Singto, Jose Carlos Barroso,Strength and Conditioning Coach and Goalkeeping CoachMarc Gamon .

ROBBIE FOWLER PROMISES A COMPETITIVE FOOTBALL IN ISL

24.20.20: The Head coach Robbie Fowler promises to present a competitive team in the maiden appearance of SC East Bengal in the seventh edition of Indian Super League. Dressed in a traditional Bengali outfit, Panjabi, the Liverpool legend discussed various important aspects of his team in an Instagram live with the club’s official handle on Saturday afternoon.



Fowler feels that to get an opportunity to coach a ISL team is brilliant. ISL is becoming competitive and is getting stronger day by day. The brand of football is much higher from the day it was started. SC East Bengal will showcase a competitive brand of football with an aim to do well in the competition. The footballers are now in quarantine in the hotel room, but they will be prepared for the tournament as soon as the team starts practice in the pitch.

While answering to a question regarding SC East Bengal and Indian football Robbie Fowler said, “The club has a lot of history and probably the best fans in Indian football. When these fans join the ISL, it makes for a great team and I wanted to be part of that. I know how passionate the fans are and I have learnt a lot about the club already. It is definitely a challenge, but it is one that I will gratefully accept because I feel I can do well here.”

Robbie Fowler are of the opinion that there are talented footballers in the squad, Yumnam Gopi Singh, N Rohen Singh and Jeje Lalpeklua. Jeje is a good striker who have scored a number of goals in domestic as well as in international football. Though he missed a year but he is eager to start without any delay.The basic task is to develop a competitive team and try and develop Indian talent as well.

Robbie Fowler opined that foreign footballers are experienced, and exceptionally good footballers. Fowler added, “Scott Neville and Danny Fox are both excellent players. Anthony Pilkington and Jacob Maghoma in midfield are both strong and competitive players, technically very good. Matti Steinmann is an excellent player. He can control a lot of areas on the pitch, particularly that midfield. I wish I had some of the attributes that Aaron Amadi-Holloway has as a player. With us bringing him here, he will show us the belief that we have in him. We never just signed because of the good names, all these players are good players.” SC East Bengal's head coach feels that there is a right balance between Indian and foreign footballers.

Robbie Fowler are well aware the importance of Kolkata Derby between the two arch rivals of Indian football. He knows how passionate are the supporters of Red and Gold during a derby match. "Probably SC East Bengal have the best fans in India. It is a really challenge during Derby." Fowler added that there is a need for crowd in a football match, but in the current situation we have no other option than to sacrifice.

ISL 2020-21 SEASON TO START FROM 20TH NOVEMBER AT GOA

21.10.2020 : It's hardly a less than a month now. The top tier league of the country will going to be flagged off on and from the 20th of November at Goa under the strict health protocol due to Covid 19 pandemic. The eleven participating teams are at Goa preparing for the tournament will fight for a spot in the AFC Champions League .

ELEVEN PARTICIPATING TEAMS:
ATK MOHUN BAGAN, BENGALURU FC, KERALA BLASTERS FC, CHENNAIYIN FC, FC GOA, MUMBAI CITY FC, NORTH EAST UNITED FC, ODISHA FC, HYDERABAD FC, JAMSHEDPUR FC, SC EAST BENGAL



FSDL has changed the format of the tournament in the seventh edition of the tournament. All the matches will be played at three different stadiums of Goa instead of different cities of the country. A limited number of people will be allowed to enter the stadium apart from the participating teams, coaching teams, medical units and officials. No spectators are allowed to enter the stadium . Star Sports have made elaborate arrangements to telecast the matches live in India as well as in abroad from 7.30 PM IST.

The attraction of the tournament has changed radically after the inclusion of the top two teams of the country, Mohun Bagan and East Bengal. Mohun Bagan merged up with ATK forming a new club ATK Mohun Bagan, while East Bengal tied up with an investor Sree Cements Private Limited forming SC East Bengal.

HABAS JOINED THE PRACTICE SESSION AT BAMBOLIM GROUND

19.10.20: The Head coach of ATK Mohun Bagan, Antonio Habas started to train his team at the Bambolim ground, Goa from today onwards after completing fourteen days quarintine period. The Spanish coaching team and the three footballers Tiri, Xavi Hernandez and Edu Gracia joined the practice session from today morning. The Indian squad alreay under phycical and sequence trainning under the two Indian physical trainners since last week.

Since the time of preparation is very short in Indian Super League, Habas has planned for trainning sessions in two phases. The first session will start at morning after breakfast followed by the second session in the evening.

The festive season is round the corner in India and especially in Bengal. ATK Mohun Bagan squad are having a host of footballers from Bengal who will really miss the flavour and excitement of Durga Puja. Antonio Habas himself are quite aware of the greatest ever festival in Bengal. He himself enjoyed Durga Puja during his stay in Kolkata. While interacting with ATK Mohun Bagan media Antonio Habas, the Head coach said that he will going to continue the hard practice session during festive days in order to build up a truly competetive team in the tournament.

INDIAN FOOTBALLERS OF ODISHA FC START TRAINING AT GOA

ODISHA FC MEDIA: 18.10.20: The Indian contingent of Odisha FC started training in groups adhering to all the health and safety norms laid out by the League on Saturday. The players under the guidance of Indian Assistant Coach and former international midfielder Mr. Steven Dias started training at their designated training pitch at Betalbatim, Goa.

Meanwhile, the foreign players have also started arriving at the team hotel. Experienced Defender Steven Taylor and forward Diego Mauricio have already checked in earlier while Hero ISL star Marcelinho and Goalkeeping Coach Rogerio Ramos arrived today.

Expressing his delight after getting on to the field for training, Stefen Dias said, "I am very excited and delighted that finally we have started training on field and I am sure that the players must have been waiting for the same as well. They have worked hard in their respective rooms following the fitness training guidelines by our Strength and Conditioning Coach Joan (Casanova). We all are looking forward to it."

Odisha FC's Head of Football Operations Mr. Abhik Chatterjee explained, "This training session was a very special one for all the players and the staff because everybody set foot on the pitch after a long period of time. The joy and the enthusiasm that the players had was very visible and it showed in the training session. Everybody was just grateful to be practising and training again. Hopefully, the players can keep this level of commitment and enthusiasm going as we will look to go from strength to strength in our pre-season training window under Head Coach Stuart Baxter soon and prepare and give our best in the Indian Super League season."

COACHES AND FOOTBALLERS OF SC EAST BENGAL REACHED AT GOA TO PARTICIPATE IN ISL

16.10.20: The British coach of SC East Bengal, Robbie Fowler, the legend of Liverpool and his supporting team reached Goa to paticipate in the seventh edition of forth coming Indian Super League. According to the sources, the newly recruit foreign footballers, Danny Fox, Anthony Pilkington and Aaron Amadi Holloway arrived at Goa with Head Coach Robbie Fowler. The footballers and coaches reached Mumbai Airport early in the morning from where they reached Goa. Robert Mimis, the goalkeeper coach likely to reach Goa early next week.

It is reported that eighteen Indian footballers of SC East Bengal reached Goa this evening from their home town. Seven footballers, Md Rafiq, Samad Ali Mullick, Rafiq Ali Sardar, Sankar Roy, Narayan Das, Debjit Majumdar and Jeje Lalpeklua left Kolkata for Goa this morning. They reached Goa from Mumbai in the evening.

The Coaching team and footballers will now follow the strict rules due to Covit-19 pandemic, implemented by FSDL and local administration from their rooms at Hotel Hilton resorts at North Goa before they start their pre season trainning.

ROBBIE FOWLER & INDIAN FOOTBALLERS OF SC EAST BENGAL TO REACH GOA TOMORROW

15.10.20: The team members of SC East Bengal will reach Goa from 16th of October to participate in the maiden ISL campaign. Head coach of the Kolkata team, Robbie Fowler, Indian Assistant coach Renedy Singh along with the other support staffs will reach team hotel tomorrow. Robert mimms, the Goal keeping coach are expected to arrive at Goa early next week.

The Indian footballers Sankar Ray, Debjit Majumdar, Rafiq Ali Sardar, Md Rafique, Samad Ali Mallick, Narayan Das, Mirshad, Jeje Lalpeklua, Balwant Singh,Eugeneson Lyngdoh will reach Goa from their home towns. The footballers and coaches will be at quarantine at their team hotel following the strict rules of CoviD 19 adopted by FSDL, AIFF and local administration.

After the signing of Scott Neville, the officials of East Bengal are in a target to sign six more overseas footballers for the forth coming season. Sources reveal that Premier League footballers Danny Fox, Anthony Pilkkington and Brisbane Roar midfielder Aaron Amadi is almost set to finalize the deal with SC East Bengal. The officials are engaged in discussing with the some footballers of A League and Premier League which is expected to finalize soon.

HABAS TO START ATK-MOHUN BAGAN TRAINING AT BAMBOLIM FROM MONDAY

15.10.20: The Spanish coach of ATK Mohun Bagan Antonio Habas will be the the first coach of the forth coming Indian Super League 2020-21 who will start to train his team from Monday at the practice turf of the Bambolim stadium, Goa after completing fourteen days quarantine at Goa.The coaching staffs and the three Spanish footballers Xavi Hernandez, Edu Gracia and Tiri will start field training from Monday onward.

The twenty Indian footballers are busy in their hard schedule at Bambolim under two Indian physical trainers. The coaching style and pattern seems to be much different and harder after Antonio Habas joins hi steam from Monday onward. While interacting, Habas said that they is a lot of difference between online training and practical training on the turf of the practice ground. But we have to respect and abide the rules imposed by FSDL and administration.

Fijian international Roy Krishna, is yet to arrive at Goa. He and Australian midfielder Brad Inman is expected to join the camp within Sunday. The other foreigners David Williams and Carl McHugh are at fourteen days quarantine after reaching on Monday at Goa. The Spanish coach will resume his training with twenty three footballers now, are expecting to get his full squad in the first week of November.

FC GOA PREPARING UNDER CLIFFORD WHILE SPANISH BRIGADE IS UNDER QUARINTINE

FC GOA MEDIA - 14.10.20: The new season of the ISL is well and truly upon us and this week saw the arrival of FC Goa’s Spanish contingent. Head Coach Juan Ferrando was accompanied by Strength and Conditioning Coach Javier Gonzalez along with 5 players - Edu Bedia, Igor Angulo, Jorge Ortiz, Ivan Gonzalez and Alberto Noguera.

The Spaniards will now head into a 14-day quarantine as per protocols. The Indian contingent will meanwhile continue to practice under the watchful eyes of Assistant Coach Clifford Miranda with Juan Ferrando taking note of everything remotely via recordings of the sessions till 14th October, before they enter a seven day quarantine. The entire squad will be in action for the first time by the third week of October.

Ferrando is looking forward to finally interacting with the players on a personal level once the quarantine period is over and is delighted at having landed in India - nearly 6 months after his appointment. “I’m very excited and happy because we are here now. All these days, I have had to interact with the coaching and medical staff on video calls. I am now eager to meet them along with the players face to face,” exclaimed the new FC Goa head coach.

“To be honest, I would have loved to be here even earlier to get a feel of the place, but the circumstances as we all know, were not conducive to that. To be in the office with the coaches and work on the pitch - these are the things I love to do. And finally, I’m an inch closer to doing so. Instead of looking back and looking at the challenges, I would rather look forward to the season ahead of us. We have to factor everything in and make the best out of it.”

The season will be unlike any other season in Indian football, let alone the Indian Super League. With the pandemic raging on, the players will remain isolated whilst the stands will be bereft of fans. However, with the safety of everyone on the top of the list in terms of priorities, the protocols demand stringent checks all over.

“It will surely be very difficult for everyone this season, but that is the same for everyone,” added Ferrando. “We are living in isolation. We’ll be together for 7 months in the same hotel. A number of players will have to spend time away from their families and homes.

It will be a task, no doubt, but this year, we have to do it for our fans and supporters. They won’t be able to be with us in the stands, but we know about the passion that they carry in their hearts. And this is a season, we will look to fight all adversities and dedicate it to them.”

ATK MOHUN BAGAN STARTS THEIR PRACTICE AT BAMBOLIN: JOBBY JUSTIN JOINS CAMP AFTER RECOVERING FROM CORONA

11.10.20: The footballers of ATK Mohun Bagan squad started their practice at the Bambolim stadium at Goa from Saturday evening. Twenty Indian footballers were at outdoor practice session after a fourteen days quarintine at the picturesque Novotel resort which is close to Candolim beach, Goa.

ATK Mohun Bagan's Indian footballers Arindam Bhattacharjee, Prabir Das, Pritam Kotal, were dressed from their hotel room instead of the dressing rooms of the stadium following the rules of FSDL and AIFF due to covid pandemic. The hard practice session ends after two hours. The Spanish footballers were absent as they were still in quarintine.

Meanwhile, Jobby Justin joined ATK Mohun Bagan camp at Goa after recovering from Corona virus. Jobby were tested positive twice, had to admitted for ten days at a hospital in Trivandrum. He was in home quarintine for fifteen days are now allowed to join the team's camp at Goa after a round of medical tests.

Jobby Justin attended the virtual physical trainning sessions twice a day which was conducted by the physical trainner of ATK Mohun Bagan from Madrid. Jobby was not rugular in ATK squad in the previous season. He was included in first eleven in three matches and came in as a substitute in seven matches. Jobby had a remarkable season in East Bengal in the year 2018, scored goals in many important matches as well as in the Derby matches against Mohun Bagan. The Keralian striker are confident to prove himself in the forth coming Indian Super League after after securing a place in the first eleven.

EAST BENGAL OFFICIALLY ANNOUNCE THEIR ENTRY IN ISL

8.10.20: East Bengal will be the 11th team to participate in the seven edition of Indian Super League.
After the official announcement from the founder and chairperson of FSDL, Mrs Nita Ambani, today the newly formed company Sree Cement East Bengal Foundation informed the club's participation in ISL from 2020-21 in a press note.

East Bengal club management thanked Chief Minister of West Bengal Mamata Banerjee and Mrs Nita Ambani for recognising the legacy of century old institution. The Managing Director of Sree Cement Mr Hari Mohan Bangur in his massage thanked the chief minister of West Bengal Smt Mamata Banerjee for her continuous support which ultimately helped East Bengal to get an entry in the top tier league of the country. Mr Bangur also thanked Mrs Nita Ambani for her constant encouragement which helped the dream of the century old club into reality.

Meanwhile, East Bengal will declare the name of their Head coach shortly. Sources reveal the Liverpool legend Robbie Fowler are among the front liners out of the short listed coaches. East Bengal are in close contract with the agent in order recruit the foreign footballers. The declaration regarding the inclusuion of foreign footballers will be announced officially within a day or so.

DERBY IN ISL WILL ADD A NEW FLAVOR : HABAS

7.10.20: The Head coach of ATK Mohun Bagan ,Antonio Habas started his mission within a very short time after his arrival at the camp at Goa. The Spanish coach along with his coaching team reached Goa on Sunday morning after a long thirty hours journey from Madrid.
Antonio Habas is following the guideline adopted by the local administration and FSDL following the pandemic caused by Corona virus since last six months.

Though he himself is in quarantine now but he is closing monitoiring the practice sessions virtually. Apart from Roy Krishna, John Johnson and David Willams all the footballers are at camp, busy in the physical training classes in three session under Alvaro Ross. Habas wants ATK Mohun Bagan to start the field training and match practices only after all the footballers of the squad completes the period of quarantine.

While discussing with the ATK Mohun Bagan Media, the Spanish coach Antonio Habas said that Derby will add a new flavor in the history of Indian Super League. He knows the enthusiasm between the supporters of top two clubs in the most high profile match of the country. Though he will play against East Bengal like the other matches of the competition but he will target for full points and wants to bag the first even Derby in Indian Super League.

Antonio Habas is literally pleased with the beautiful atmosphere and facilities of ATK Mohun Bagan camp at Goa and is optimistic to do a remarkable result in the forth coming tournament.

FSDL OFFICIALLY ANNOUNCES EAST BENGAL FC ENTRY IN INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE

27.9.20: The dream of millions of East Bengal fanatics came true when Mrs. Nita Ambani, Founder & Chairperson, Football Sports Development Limited officially announced the name of East Bengal to participate in the current edition of Indian Super League.

East Bengal is now the eleventh team to participate in the seventh edition of ISL which will kick off close door at the end of November at Goa. The dimension of ISL rose to a great expectation as the two iconic football clubs of Indian Mohun Bagan and East Bengal are now a part of the top tier league.

In her massage Mrs 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,”

> After the merger of ATK and Mohun Bagan, East Bengal officials are desperate for a financially sound investor which is essential to play in ISL. Finally, with the intervention of the Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, East Bengal finally tied up with Sree Cement Private Limited as their new investor.

After the tied up with the investor Sree Cement Private limited, East Bengal picked up the BID paper issued by FSDL and had to fulfill the necessary documentations as well as the transfer of sporting rights in the name of the investor which is mandatory to complete the licensing process with Asian Football Confederation within a very short period of time.

Now, a new journey starts for the Kolkata giants as well as for Indian Super League. The seventh edition of the league will showcase Mohun Bagan after a merge with ATK and East Bengal which will eventually rise the interest of the competition for the millions of fanatics world wide.

FOOTBALLERS ARRIVING AT GOA FOR ISL

26.9.20: The seventh edition of Indian Super League are expected to kick off close door at the end of November. The footballers of different franchisee teams started to arrive at Goa for their pre season training. Some of the Indian footballers of Hyderabad FC, Kerala Blasters FC,Mumbai City FC and ATK MohuBagan arrived at Goa and the footballers will have to stay at quarantine in their respective hotels for a week before they start their pre season camp.

The foreign footballers, coaches and support staffs are yet to arrive at the venew. It is expected that the overseas footballer will arrive only after their visa is issued. Meanwhile, Ministry of External Affairs has granted visa to nine footballers and one coaching staff to join their teams at Goa. All the foreign footballers are required for a five rounds of covit test . So, the pre season camp of different teams will start in absence of the foreign footballers.

EAST BENGAL'S INVESTOR SUBMITTED BID TO FSDL

15.9.20: The investor of East Bengal club finally submitted the BID documents to FSDL on Tuesday to participate in the forthcoming seventh edition of Indian Super League. The BID documents were submitted in the name of Sree Cement East Bengal Foundation after discussing various legal aspects between the officials of East Bengal, investors Sree Cements Limited and FSDL.

All India Football Federation will shortly intimate to AFC to take necessary steps for the enrollment of East Bengal in the new name which is required for Club Licensing procedures. The hard copies of the BID documents are being sent to FSDL.

It is likely that FSDL will declare the entry of East Bengal as the 11th team in the forth coming tournament within 22nd September. The inclusion of the two iconic teams Mohun Bagan and East Bengal in the top tier league of the country will have a great impact in Indian football in the coming days.

FSDL INVITES BID: EAST BENGAL TO PLAY ISL

4.9.20: After conforming Sree Cement as the principle investor East Bengal are about to find their spot in the seventh edition of Indian Super League. As East Bengal official Debobrata Sarkar said after the deal with Sree Cement at Nabanna that East Bengal will apply to FSDL for an entry in ISL according to the required formalities.
Meanwhile, FSDL has invited 'BIDS' from the interested clubs or franchisees to enroll their name and to participate in the forth coming competition at Goa. It is mentioned that FSDL wishes to invite 'BID' from one additional team to enroll themselves and to participate in the seventh edition of ISL. Clubs or franchisees from cities like Delhi, Ludhiana, Siliguri, Kolkata, Ahmedabad and Bhopal can enroll themselves to participate in the forth coming competition. One team (who wins the bidder) from the following cities will be awarded the right to participate in the seventh edition of Indian Super League.

The forms of the 'BID' will be available for process from 7th and 8th of September and the documents along with the form are to be submitted on the 14th of September. So, the seventh edition of ISL will be consisting of 11 teams after the entry of one additional team. Now, the inclusion of East Bengal in the top tier league of the country is just a formality.

EAST BENGAL FINALLY FINDS SREE CEMENT AS INVESTOR

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2.9.20: East Bengal finally tied up with Sree Cement as their principle investor. The official announcement was made today evening from the West Bengal Secretariat NABANNYA in presence of the honrable Chief Minister of WEST BENGAL- Miss Mamata Banerjee, East Bengal as well as Sree Cement officials.
While addressing in the meeting the Chief Minister said " Kolkata is the gateway of Indian football and Football without Bengal is incomplete.” Mamata Banerjee furthur added that she desires to build up three gates in the name of East Bengal, Mohun Bagan, Mohammedan Sporting in or around Kolkata. In fact Mamata Banerjee took her initiative, as she feels the East Bengal deserves a spot in the top tier league in the centenary year.

East Bengal were in search of an investor since Quess Corp decided to withdraw themselves from the one hundred years old company. Unlike Mohun Bagan (already tied up with ATK), East Bengal are in a target to play in Indian Super League, which is being declared as the top tier league of the country. With this deal the Red and Gold Brigade are now all set to make a spot in Indian Super League. The dream of the millions of Red and Gold supporters to play in the top tier league will come true after the official confirmmation from FSDL.

Sree Cement is one of the top ranking manufacturing company in the country as the maximum share owned by Benu Gopal Bangur with the production units at Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Chhatisgarh and Bihar. Sree Cement has a turnover of Rs 12175.62 crore in the financial year 2019-20.

The final fixture of Indian Super League is yet to be decayed. The next few days will decide the fate of East Bengal in Indian football. Now the game is entirely in the court of FSDL, who will flash a green signal to East Bengal to play in the current edition of the competition.

7th EDITION OF ISL TO START IN NOVEMBER 2020

07/07/2020 : The 2020–21 Indian Super League (ISL) season will be the 7th edition. The season will start from 20 th November 2020 to March 2021. The entire tournament will be played in Goa owing to the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. All matches will be held in three stadiums - the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda, the GMC Athletic Stadium in Bambolim and the Tilak Maidan Stadium in Vasco.

ATK were the defending champions, having defeated Chennaiyin in the 2020 ISL final. However, in July 2020, the club was merged with I-League club Mohun Bagan to form ATK Mohun Bagan. While On 27 September 2020, Kolkata Giant SC East Bengal joined the league as an expansion team and thus became the 11th team in the league.

It has been decided that Each club have the option of signing a minimum of 5 and a maximum of 7 foreign players, but unlike the previous season, there should be at least one overseas player who hails from an AFC–affiliated country. The teams can continue fielding 5 foreign players in the playing XI (4+1).

ISL Head Coaches will need to be holding or pursuing an AFC Pro License or its equivalent. The assistant head coach has to be Indian and hold an AFC Pro License and an Indian goalkeeping coach will not satisfy the requirement.

On July 6th Indian Super League approved 3 (foreign) + 1 (Asian) player regulation will become part of the competition guidelines from the eighth season in 2021-22. In May, the AIFF's executive committee unanimously implemented the '3 (foreign) + 1 (Asian) player recruit rule' for I-League matches from 2020-21 season.