Category: Football

by Abhishek Shukla

Mali Dominates South Africa with a Convincing 2-0 Win in AFCON Opener

Korhogo, Côte d’Ivoire: Mali made a strong statement in their opening game of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations, Cote d’Ivoire 2023, with a commanding 2-0 victory over South Africa in Tuesday’s Group E match. The win was marked by goals from Sekou Koita and Lassine Sinayoko, showcasing Mali’s offensive prowess and defensive solidity.

The match began with both teams trading opportunities, demonstrating an open and attacking style of play. Mali had an early chance to take the lead, but Sinayoko’s attempt was thwarted by a reflex save from South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams. At the other end, Percy Tau created a promising chance for South Africa but was denied by Mali’s goalkeeper Djigui Diarra.

A pivotal moment came in the 19th minute when Tau missed a penalty awarded by VAR, sending his shot over the bar. This missed opportunity proved costly for South Africa as Mali increased their pressure in the second half.

Mali’s breakthrough came an hour into the game when Hamari Traore capitalized on a chance to score the opening goal. Five minutes later, Sinayoko doubled Mali’s lead with a low shot, securing a comfortable margin for his team.

South Africa attempted a late rally, with Themba Zwane’s free-kick striking the woodwork, but they were unable to find the back of the net, ultimately falling to defeat.

The victory places Mali at the top of Group E on goal difference, sharing the lead with Namibia, who earlier secured a surprising win over Tunisia. Mali’s performance, highlighted by quality players like Yves Bissouma, Amadou Haidara, and Koita, positions them as a team with the potential to make a deep run in the tournament.

This result sets the tone for an exciting and competitive Africa Cup of Nations, with teams like Mali demonstrating their capability to deliver high-quality football and challenge for the title.

by Abhishek Shukla

Saudi Arabia Secures Dramatic 2-1 Comeback Win Over Oman in AFC Asian Cup

Doha: In a thrilling Group F match of the AFC Asian Cup™ Qatar 2023, Saudi Arabia staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Oman 2-1 at Khalifa International Stadium on Tuesday. The victory was marked by late goals from Abdulrahman Ghareeb and Ali Al Bulayhi, overturning Oman’s lead that lasted for over an hour.

The match was a testament to Saudi Arabia’s resilience, as they secured their first three points in the group stage. Despite Oman’s strong performance for the majority of the game, the Saudis’ late resurgence proved decisive.

Abdulrahman Ghareeb played a pivotal role in the comeback, his goal leveling the score and setting the stage for a dramatic finish. Ali Al Bulayhi then delivered the winning strike, ensuring a hard-fought victory for the Saudi team.

The match was characterized by intense competition and strategic gameplay, with both teams showcasing their strengths. Oman’s initial lead put pressure on Saudi Arabia, but the Saudi team’s persistence and tactical adjustments in the latter stages of the game paid off.

The victory is crucial for Saudi Arabia’s campaign in the AFC Asian Cup, providing a boost of confidence and momentum as they continue in the tournament. The team demonstrated their capability to handle pressure and perform in critical moments, qualities essential for success in high-stakes competitions.

For Oman, despite the defeat, there were positive aspects to their performance, particularly in how they managed to control the game for significant periods. They will look to build on these strengths in their upcoming matches.

As the tournament progresses, Saudi Arabia will aim to capitalize on this win, while Oman will seek to regroup and focus on their next challenge in the AFC Asian Cup. The match was a showcase of the competitive spirit and quality present in Asian football, promising more exciting encounters as the tournament continues.

by Abhishek Shukla

#AFCON: Traore’s Late Heroics Seal Victory for Burkina Faso

In a thrilling encounter at the Stade de la Paix in Bouake, Burkina Faso narrowly triumphed over Mauritania in their Africa Cup of Nations Group D opener. The hero of the night was Bertrand Traore, who converted a decisive penalty in the 96th minute, guiding Burkina Faso to a 1-0 victory.

The match, characterized by its intensity and tightly contested nature, saw both teams creating notable chances. Mauritania, eager to secure their first ever win in the competition, displayed a spirited performance. Their striker, Aboubakary Koita, was a constant threat, testing Burkina Faso goalkeeper Herve Koffi on multiple occasions. Koffi’s remarkable saves, particularly from Koita’s first-half free-kick and a second-half attempt by Sidi Amar, were pivotal in keeping Mauritania at bay.

Burkina Faso, on the other hand, demonstrated a robust attacking display, with Adama Guira and Stephane Aziz Ki coming close to scoring. The Stallions, who have reached the semi-finals in three of the past five tournaments, found their rhythm thwarted by a resilient Mauritanian defense, led by goalkeeper Babacar Niasse. Niasse’s exceptional saves, denying Ki and a powerful strike from Traore, kept the score level until the final moments.

The game’s defining moment arrived in stoppage time when Nouh Mohamed El Abd’s foul on Issa Kabore in the penalty area was spotted by VAR. Traore, stepping up to the spot, made no mistake, sending Niasse the wrong way and securing a crucial win for Burkina Faso.

This late win sets a positive tone for Burkina Faso’s campaign, as they look forward to their next fixture against Algeria on January 20. Mauritania, still in search of their first Afcon win, will face Angola on the same day, hoping to turn their fortunes around.

by Abhishek Shukla

Make Or Break For Bengaluru FC’sQualification Hopes

Bhubaneswar: It’s crunch time for Bengaluru FC at the Kalinga Stadium, on Wednesday,
where nothing short of a win against an in-form FC Goa would do, if they are to keep their
hopes of progressing in the Super Cup, alive. The Blues go into an early kick off against Manolo
Marquez’s group leaders on the back of a 1-0 defeat to Odisha, but it was the performance on
the night that Gerard Zaragoza will draw confidence from.
The Blues, however, will be without winger Ryan Williams after he picked up a red card against
Odisha, and while the Australian’s absence will be felt, Zaragoza was confident in the ability of
the youngsters on the squad.
“Of course it affects us as we were already short on foreign players and with Ryan out it makes
it harder as the squad is not complete. But I’m so happy with our younger players who have
what it takes to be at this club. They just need more game time and experience to move to the
next level,” said the Bengaluru FC Head Coach.
Furthermore, Sunil Chhetri, Gurpreet Sandhu, and Suresh Wangjam, three of Bengaluru’s
experienced players, are all absent owing to national team responsibilities at the AFC Asian
Cup in Qatar, leaving the squad with more to do.
Despite playing an entire half with ten men against Odisha, Bengaluru FC were fluent in attack,
taking the game to the hosts. Spaniard Javi Hernandez came close on a few occasions, and he
will continue to be the key on Wednesday.
On the other hand, the arrival of Indian forward Mohammad Yasir, who joins the Gaurs on loan
from Hyderabad FC, will be a boost for Goa. The winger and Manolo Marquez will look to build
on their success together in Indian football with their new club. The duo played a crucial role in
the Nizams’ first-ever ISL championship victory in the 2021–2022 season.
Zaragoza admitted that his team had their task cut out.”They (Goa) know that it is a must-win
match for us which plays to their benefit. They have great players and a very good coach, but

we will have our game plan set. We also know we will get chances to win the game that keeps
us alive in the Super Cup,” added Zaragoza.
Meanwhile in the other fixture of the same group, defending champions Odisha FC will aim to
get the better of Inter Kashi to solidify their progression into the knockout stages of the
competition.

by Abhishek Shukla

Chennaiyin outshine Gokulam Kerala 2-0 in Kalinga Super Cup 2024

Bhubaneswar, January 16, 2024: Strikers Connor Shields and Irfan Yadwad struck a goal each in either half as Chennaiyin FC beat Gokulam Kerala FC 2-0 in the Kalinga Super Cup 2024 Group C match at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar, Odisha on Tuesday.

Shields scored the opening goal in the 25th minute before substitute Yadwad netted the second in the 64th minute to hand Chennaiyin a crucial victory.

Owen Coyle’s men will now take on Mumbai City FC in their final group stage match on Sunday. The top team from each group will qualify for the semi-finals as the winner of the tournament will also secure themselves a spot in the 2024-25 AFC Champions League 2 Group stages.

Chennaiyin, who drew against Punjab FC in their opening match, began cautiously and took time to settle down against the Kozhikode-based outfit.  

They created a chance as early as in the fourth minute but Rahim Ali’s left-footed shot from close range went wide off the post.

Chennaiyin grew in confidence as the game progressed and Shields broke the deadlock to put them ahead with a 1-0 lead. Ankit Mukherjee made an over-lapping run to find the Scottish striker, who converted it with a fluent strike from a tight angle.

The Marina Machans continued to play aggressively as play resumed after the break and controlled the ball well in the opposition’s half. They doubled the lead in the 64th minute when Yadwad received a long ball from Lazar Cirkovic and slotted it through the goalkeeper’s legs.

Trailing by two goals, Gokulam Kerala  struggled to retain possession and things got even worse for them when they were reduced to 10 men with more than 20 minutes left in the match. Rishad was sent off with a red card for bringing down Yadwad as the last man.

Chennaiyin did enough to keep their grip on the match until the final whistle to complete a comfortable win which also ended the Malabarians’ challenge in the tournament.

by Abhishek Shukla

#AFCON: Paciencia Secures Draw for Angola Against Algeria

In a gripping Group C opener at the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Cote d’Ivoire 2023, Angola held former champions Algeria to a 1-1 draw at Bouake’s Stade De La Paix. The Monday evening match was a display of resilience from Angola, who were up against a team largely considered favorites.

Algeria, the 2019 champions, started the match assertively, dominating possession and quickly establishing their attacking intent. Fares Chaibi and Youcef Belaili posed early threats for the Desert Foxes, with Belaili coming close to scoring in the eighth minute, only for his effort to be parried by Angolan goalkeeper Adilson Cipriano.

The breakthrough for Algeria came in the 18th minute. Baghdad Bounedjah, mirroring his goal-scoring feat from the 2019 edition’s opener, found the back of the net after latching onto a lobbed ball, comfortably placing it into the bottom left corner.

Angola, undeterred by the goal, adopted a strategy in the second half focusing on penetrating the Algerian defense. This approach bore fruit in the 68th minute when Cristovao Paciencia, after being fouled in the box by Nabil Bentaleb, stepped up to convert the resulting penalty, drawing Angola level.

The match concluded with the teams sharing points in an evenly contested affair. Post-match facts highlight Algeria’s struggle in recent Africa Cup of Nations matches, with no wins in their last four games. Conversely, Angola continues a streak without a victory in their last nine matches in the tournament.

Looking forward, Algeria faces a clash against Burkina Faso, while Angola will compete against Mauritania in their upcoming fixtures.

by Abhishek Shukla

Paciencia Secures Crucial Point for Angola Against Algeria in Africa Cup of Nations

Bouaké, 15th January 2024: Angola’s Cristovao Paciencia emerged as a key figure in securing a vital 1-1 draw for his team against former champions Algeria in their opening match of Group C at the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Côte d’Ivoire 2023. The match, held at Stade De La Paix in Bouaké, showcased a high-stakes battle between the two sides.

The 2019 champions, Algeria, entered the match as favorites and immediately demonstrated their dominance. Fares Chaibi almost opened the scoring for Algeria in the 6th minute, followed by Youcef Belaili’s close attempt in the 8th minute. Algeria’s relentless pressure paid off when Baghdad Bounedjah, the hero of their 2019 title run, scored the opening goal, continuing his tradition of scoring in their first match of the tournament, as he did in 2019 against Kenya.

However, Angola showed resilience in the second half, adapting their tactics to focus on attacking. This approach yielded results in the 68th minute when substitute Cristovao Paciencia was fouled by Nabil Bentaleb in the box, leading to a penalty. Paciencia stepped up and converted the spot-kick, drawing the game level and earning a crucial point for Angola.

The match ended in a 1-1 stalemate, a result that reflects the competitive spirit and unpredictability of the Africa Cup of Nations. Next, Algeria will face Burkina Faso, while Angola will take on Mauritania in their upcoming fixtures, as the group stage continues to unfold with excitement and high-quality football.

by Abhishek Shukla

Aitana Bonmatí and Lionel Messi crowned at The Best FIFA Football Awards 2023™ in London

The Best FIFA Football Awards 2023™ ceremony, held in London on Monday, 15 January, crowned Aitana Bonmatí and Lionel Messi as the outstanding players since the last edition, alongside recognising the outstanding performances of coaches, goalkeepers, and more across the men’s and women’s game.

The winners of The Best FIFA Football Awards 2023 are:

  • The Best FIFA Women’s Player: Aitana Bonmatí (Spain / FC Barcelona)
  • The Best FIFA Men’s Player: Lionel Messi (Argentina / Paris Saint-Germain / Club Internacional de Fútbol Miami)
  • The Best FIFA Women’s Goalkeeper: Mary Earps (England / Manchester United)
  • The Best FIFA Men’s Goalkeeper: Ederson (Brazil / Manchester City FC)
  • The Best FIFA Women’s Coach: Sarina Wiegman (Netherlands / England Women’s National Team)
  • The Best FIFA Men’s Coach: Pep Guardiola (Spain / Manchester City FC)
  • The FIFA Puskás Award: Guilherme Madruga (Brazil / Botafogo Futebol Clube)
  • The FIFA Special Award: Marta
  • The FIFA Fair Play Award: Brazil men’s national team
  • The FIFA Fan Award: Hugo Daniel “Toto” Iniguez

Lionel Messi has been crowned The Best FIFA Men’s Player 2023, retaining the title he won in 2022. Messi topped an incredibly closely contested poll, which was voted for by national team coaches and captains, as well as expert journalists and supporters across the globe.

With the FIFA World Cup 2022™ winner and Manchester City FC and Norway international forward Erling Haaland locked together on 48 points, they were separated by the number of first-choice nominations received in votes from national team captains, as per the Rules of Allocation (article 12). France striker Kylian Mbappe finished third with 35 points. 

Aitana Bonmatí has been named The Best FIFA Women’s Player for the first time. The coveted award is richly deserved for this magnificent midfielder, who in 2023 inspired Spain to their maiden world title, and Barcelona to a domestic and European treble. 

In topping the poll, which followed the same protocol as the men’s award but with women’s national team coaches and captains voting, Bonmatí succeeded her team-mate, 2022 winner Alexia Putellas, fending off competition from fellow finalists Linda Caicedo and Jennifer Hermoso.

Mary Earps has been voted The Best FIFA Women’s Goalkeeper for a second successive year, becoming the first two-time winner in the award’s history.

Earps dazzled once again as the Lionesses won the Finalissima, and reached their first-ever FIFA Women’s World Cup™ final. Outstanding saves and shootout heroics paved the way to both of those achievements, with Earps’ displays at the latter tournament rewarded with the adidas Golden Glove award. She was also named the best ‘keeper in England’s WSL, having racked up a remarkable 14 clean sheets from just 22 Manchester United appearances last season.

Ederson has been named as The Best FIFA Men’s Goalkeeper of 2023. The Brazilian shot-stopper was awarded the honour following a stellar year in which the 30-year-old backstopped Manchester City’s historic treble-winning campaign.

Ederson topped the poll with 23 points, ahead of fellow finalists Thibaut Courtois (20 points) and Yassine Bounou (16 points).

Sarina Wiegman has been named The Best FIFA Women’s Coach for 2023. The England boss enjoyed a record-breaking year in which she led the Lionesses to the final of the FIFA Women’s World Cup™, and the Arnold Clark Cup and Women’s Finalissima titles.

Wiegman beat Emma Hayes and Jonatan Giraldez to the honour at The Best FIFA Football Awards™ on Monday with 28 points, ahead of Hayes’ 18 points, and Giraldez’s return of 14 points.

Pep Guardiola has been named The Best FIFA Men’s Coach 2023 after overseeing an incredible period of success at Manchester City. The Spaniard led the club to a historic Premier League, UEFA Champions League, and FA Cup treble in 2022/23.

Guardiola’s all-conquering team won a further two trophies in 2023, lifting the UEFA Super Cup before rounding off the calendar year in perfect style by triumphing at the FIFA Club World Cup™.

Guardiola came out on top in the voting with 28 points, ahead of Italian duo Luciano Spalletti (18 points) and Simone Inzaghi (11 points).

The Best FIFA Football Awards ceremony also recognised the standout goal of the year as Brazilian midfielder Guilherme Madruga won the FIFA Puskás Award 2023 for his astonishing overhead kick.

The Botafogo-SP star’s acrobatic effort came out on top ahead of an audacious rabona from Sporting’s Nuno Santos, and Brighton teenager Julio Enciso’s long-range thunderbolt.

The accolade recognises the most spectacular goal in men’s and women’s football across the qualification period, which was between 19 December 2022 and 20 August 2023, and is named in honour of legendary Hungarian forward Ferenc Puskás.

Marta was honoured with The FIFA Special Award in recognition of her illustrious career. She scored a staggering 115 goals in 175 appearances for Brazil and inspired millions, passing on her passion for football in a career that saw her reign supreme in Brazil, Sweden and the USA.

As of 2025, FIFA will introduce a new award to honour her legendary achievements – the best goal scored in women’s football will receive the ‘Marta Award’.

Hugo Daniel “Toto” Iniguez was awarded The FIFA Fan Award for 2023, after the dedicated Colon de Santa Fe fan went viral after he was seen feeding his son during an Argentine Primera Division game against Barracas Central in May 2023.

The heart-warming scene displayed the father’s desire to build a relationship between his two-month-old son and his favourite club from the earliest possible age, with the moment now cemented in history.

The Brazil men’s national team were recognised with the FIFA Fair Play award for their powerful stand against racism. In a friendly against Guinea in June 2023, The Seleção swapped their traditional yellow jerseys for an all-black kit in a show of solidarity with star forward Vinicius Junior, who had been subjected to sickening racist abuse while in action for Real Madrid.

The Best FIFA Football awards™ 2023 ceremony concluded a thorough and democratic process facilitated by FIFA to recognise world football’s top players, coaches, goalkeepers, fans, goals, and acts of fair play.

by Abhishek Shukla

Ten-Man Guinea Holds Cameroon to a Draw in the Africa Cup of Nations

Charles Konan Banny Stadium, 15th January 2024: In a gripping encounter, Guinea and Cameroon played to a 1-1 draw in their second Group C match of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Côte d’Ivoire 2023. The match was marked by high tension and dramatic turns, showcasing the resilience and skill of both teams.

Guinea, despite being reduced to 10 men, managed to hold off the five-time champions, Cameroon. The match began with Guinea taking an early lead through Mohamed Bayo, who capitalized on a loose ball inside the penalty box, putting it beyond the reach of Cameroon’s goalkeeper, Fabrice Ondoa.

However, the dynamics of the game shifted when Guinea’s captain, Francois Kamano, was sent off. Initially receiving a yellow card for penalizing Cameroonian midfielder Olivier Ntcham, the decision was reviewed by the Video Assistant Referee. The referee, Mutaz Ibrahim, subsequently changed the card to red, leaving Guinea to navigate the majority of the match with a man disadvantage.

Cameroon seized the opportunity in the second half, leveraging their numerical advantage. They found their equalizer six minutes into the half, thanks to a brilliant aerial effort by Frank Magri following a free kick, bringing the game to a 1-1 tie.

The match sets the stage for a high-stakes game for Cameroon, who will next face the defending champions, Senegal, on Friday, January 19th, at the Charles Konan Banny Stadium. This draw illustrates the unpredictable and competitive nature of the Africa Cup of Nations, highlighting the tournament’s excitement and the high level of talent across the participating teams.

by Abhishek Shukla

Jordan Dominates Malaysia in AFC Asian Cup Group E Opener

Al Wakrah, 16th January 2024: Jordan’s AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 campaign in Group E commenced with a resounding 4-0 victory over Malaysia at Al Janoub Stadium. The Jordanian team showcased a dominant performance, taking a strong 3-0 lead into halftime against a Malaysian side that struggled to match their intensity.

Jordan’s tactical prowess and high energy were evident throughout the match, as they consistently outmaneuvered the Malaysian defense. This comprehensive win sets a strong precedent for Jordan in the tournament, as they look to build on this momentum in their subsequent group stage matches.

For Malaysia, the match was a challenging introduction to the competition, highlighting areas for improvement as they progress through the tournament. The Malaysian team will aim to regroup and strategize for their upcoming fixtures, drawing lessons from this defeat.

Overall, the match was a clear demonstration of Jordan’s capabilities on the Asian football stage, and it will be interesting to see how they fare in their upcoming encounters in the AFC Asian Cup.

by Abhishek Shukla

Iraq Triumphs Over Indonesia in AFC Asian Cup Group D Clash

Al Rayyan, 16th January 2024: Iraq marked a victorious start in their AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 Group D journey with a decisive 3-1 win against Indonesia at Ahmad bin Ali Stadium. The match held special significance as it marked Indonesia’s first appearance in the tournament after a 16-year hiatus.

Despite a spirited exchange of attacks from both sides, Indonesia, under the guidance of coach Shin Tae-yong, gradually lost momentum as the match progressed. Iraq capitalized on this, demonstrating superior stamina and strategy, leading to their commanding win.

This victory sets a positive tone for Iraq as they continue their campaign in the AFC Asian Cup. For Indonesia, the match served as a challenging yet valuable experience on the international stage, providing insights and lessons for the upcoming fixtures in the tournament.

by Abhishek Shukla

Senegal Gears Up for Title Defense in AFC African Cup Opener Against Gambia

As the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations defending champions, Senegal is set to kick off their title defense against The Gambia on Monday, January 15. This match, taking place in Group C, which also includes Cameroon and Guinea, marks the beginning of what is considered the ‘Group of Death’ in the tournament.

Senegal, led by coach Aliou Cisse and featuring star players like Sadio Mane, is aiming for a second consecutive title. Historically, no African champion has progressed further than the round of 16 in the last six editions of the competition, but Senegal has consistently won their opening game in each of the last four editions, setting a strong precedent for their performance in this tournament.

The Gambia, although considered underdogs, are making their second appearance in the competition. Remarkably, they reached the quarter-finals in their inaugural participation in 2021. Coach Tom Saintfiet of The Gambia expressed his team’s readiness and high spirits upon arrival, highlighting their preparation for the competition and their eagerness to make an impact in their second appearance.

The match, set to kick off at Yamoussoukro’s Charles Konan Banny Stadium at 14h00 local time, promises to be a compelling start to the group stage, showcasing the potential of both teams in what’s expected to be a competitive and exciting tournament.

by Abhishek Shukla

Korea Republic Secures Convincing Win Against Bahrain in AFC Asian Cup

In the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™, Korea Republic made a strong start with a 3-1 victory over Bahrain at Jassim bin Hamad Stadium in Group E. The win was fueled by a remarkable performance from Paris Saint-Germain winger Lee Kang-in, who scored twice in the second half to lead his team to success.

Hwang In-beom opened the scoring for Jurgen Klinsmann’s side in the 38th minute. Bahrain responded early in the second half with a goal from Abdulla Al Hashash, leveling the score. However, Korea Republic regained control thanks to Lee Kang-in’s brilliance. His first goal was a stunning strike from 25 yards in the 56th minute, and he then clinched the win with a clinical finish into the bottom corner of Ebrahim Lutfalla’s goal with 21 minutes remaining.

The victory sets a positive tone for the two-time AFC Asian Cup champions. Lee Kang-in, only 22 years old, showcased his technical skill and composure under pressure, proving to be a key asset for the Korean team in the tournament.

Korea Republic’s win is a significant step as they aim to progress further in the competition. With a solid start in Group E, the team looks poised to build on this performance and make a deep run in the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™.

by Abhishek Shukla

Mumbai City FC Confident Ahead Of Second Game Against Punjab FC in Kalinga Super Cup

Bhubaneshwar, 15th January, 2024: Indian Super League side Mumbai City FC kicked off their Kalinga Super Cup 2024 campaign with a 2-1 win against I-League side Gokulam Kerala and have Punjab FC in their sights in their second Group C game on 16th January.
The Islanders began their journey with a performance to remember, coming from behind to win 2-1 against a formidable Gokulam Kerala team. For the new head coach Peter Kratky, these are still early days and he is well aware of the challenges opposition teams can put forth.
“Punjab will be a little bit of a different opponent in comparison to Gokulam Kerala. However, we have a squad who can perform against any team. I believe in the players we have. Punjab is a very good team with experienced players on the park, and are well organised. We have to be respectful and ready for their quality, but we must also stick to the way we want to play. I am looking forward to the game, it will be an exciting game. We are not afraid of anyone, and we want to win this game,” Kratky said.
Due to the ongoing AFC Asian Cup in Qatar, Mumbai City FC, like most other clubs, do not have a full squad available to pick from. Nonetheless, Kratky and the team management aren’t very worried about it.
“I was very pleased with what I saw specially with Franklin (Nazareth), Nathan (Rodrigues), and Sanjeev (Stalin) and the others, basically all of the young players who came in, and Ayush (Chhikara) also, who scored a goal. There is a lot of room to improve but we will try to help them and make sure the performances are still going up. But again, I was very pleased with what I saw, and hopefully they keep working hard, and keep asking more questions for the future selections,” the coach added.
A win for the Mumbai City FC side will take them one step closer to the semifinal of the 2024 Kalinga Super Cup and defender Nathan Rodrigues, who made his first start for Mumbai City against Gokulam Kerala, is keen to help his side take that huge step forward. Nathan said, “It was a tough game. We were a goal down but we fought to win 2-1. The team worked very hard on the pitch and we deserved to win.”
“It is important for us to get a win on Tuesday against Punjab FC, and we hope we keep our momentum going as well. A win will take us closer to the qualification for the semi final,” Nathan added.
ENDS
About Mumbai City FC

 
Mumbai City FC was formed in August 2014 and is a club competing in the Hero Indian Super League. The Islanders, as the club is fondly known, is the only team in India to have won the unique ‘double’, winning the Hero ISL League and the Playoffs in the 2020-21 season. The club won a second league title in 2022-23 in record-breaking fashion. Mumbai City FC has competed at the Asian stage in the 2022 AFC Champions League, where it finished second in Group B and also became the first Indian club to register wins in Asia’s premier club competition.

Originally owned by Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor and businessman Bimal Parekh, City Football Group acquired a majority stake in Mumbai City FC in November 2019, joining the likes of Manchester City FC, New York City FC and Melbourne City FC and others in the CFG family. Mumbai City FC plays its home games at the 6,500-seater Mumbai Football Arena located in Andheri, Mumbai. The club’s crest houses key elements that represent the city of Mumbai and is a reflection of the dynamic, relentless and modern values that define Mumbai City FC

by Abhishek Shukla

Philip Chan scores 1000th goal of AFC Asian Cup

A significant milestone was reached in AFC Asian Cup™ history on Sunday evening when the showpiece tournament of Asia witnessed its 1000th goal at the Khalifa International Stadium.
 
The landmark strike was scored by Philip Chan for Hong Kong, China in the 49th minute to draw them level against the United Arab Emirates in the Group C encounter at the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™, which ended 3-1 to the West Asians.
 
Serendipitously, Chan’s goal came over 67 years on from the first ever goal in tournament history – scored by compatriot Au Chi Yin, who etched his name into the annals of the AFC Asian Cup™ after 12 minutes in the opener by breaking the deadlock at Government Stadium on 1 September 1956 in front of 30,000 spectators. Au would add a second for the hosts, thereby scoring the first ever brace in the competition’s history as well, although they were eventually defeated 3-2.
 
Chan’s opportunistic finish was the 13th goal of the current edition and made him the ninth player from Hong Kong, China to score in the Continental flagship, with their fourth involvement ending a 56-year absence since their previous participation in 1968.
 
The overall goal tally at the AFC Asian Cup™ (excluding qualifiers) would reach triple digits for the first time at the 1972 edition. Korea Republic legend Lee Hoe-taik grabbed their second in the 59th minute against Cambodia (then Khmer Republic), which was the 100th goal, en-route to a 4-1 win in Group B at the National Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand on 10 May.
 
The turn of the millennium brought about the 500th goal in Asia’s crown jewel. Attacking midfielder Qi Hong drew China PR level at 1-1 against Japan in their Semi-final clash on 26 October at the Sports City Stadium in Beirut, with the Samurai Blue going on to prevail 3-2 to advance to the Final, where they defeated Saudi Arabia to lift the 2000 AFC Asian Cup™.
 
The magical 1000 figure moved into clearer view after the AFC Asian Cup UAE 2019™, which finished with a remarkable 130 goals – the first time that any edition had broken the 100-goal mark – and saw the all-time total surge to 987.
 
Reigning champions Qatar made it 990 with their 3-0 victory over Lebanon on Friday evening, where Almoez Ali scored his 10th AFC Asian Cup™ goal to draw level with former Korea Republic forward Lee Dong-gook on the all-time scoring charts – second only to Islamic Republic of Iran icon Ali Daei’s 14.
 
With 44 matches left to play in the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™, passionate fans of Asian football can certainly look forward to many more goals in the tournament.

by Abhishek Shukla

Salah’s Late Penalty Clinches Draw for Egypt Against Mozambique in AFCON

In their TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Côte d’Ivoire 2023, Egypt narrowly escaped a defeat against Mozambique, thanks to a late penalty converted by captain Mohamed Salah. The game, which ended in a dramatic 2-2 draw, saw the 7-time champions Egypt being pushed to the brink by a determined Mozambican side.

Egypt took an early lead, just two minutes into the game, with Mohamed Mostafa scoring with a well-placed shot into the bottom corner. Mostafa, later in the game, had another chance created by Salah, but his effort was saved by Mozambique’s goalkeeper Ernan Siluane.

Mozambique, undeterred by the early setback, mounted a strong comeback in the second half. Witness Quembo’s powerful header in the 55th minute marked Mozambique’s first goal in the competition in 14 years, leveling the score. Shortly after, Clesio Bauque’s breakaway goal gave Mozambique a surprising lead, sending shockwaves through the Egyptian team.

In the closing stages of the match, a pivotal moment occurred when Domingos Macandza brought down Mostafa Mohammed in the penalty area. After a VAR review, Egypt was awarded a penalty, which Salah confidently converted, salvaging a draw for the Pharaohs.

This result sets up an intriguing scenario in Group D, with Egypt slated to face Ghana next at the Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium on January 18. The match highlighted not only the resilience and fighting spirit of the Mozambican team but also the pressure on the Egyptian side to live up to their status as one of the favorites in the tournament.

by Abhishek Shukla

Spurs and Man Utd Share Spoils in a Thrilling 2-2 Draw at Old Trafford

In a gripping Premier League encounter, Tottenham Hotspur twice came from behind to secure a 2-2 draw against Manchester United at Old Trafford. The match was a showcase of resilience and attacking prowess from both teams.

Manchester United’s Rasmus Hojlund and Marcus Rashford scored for the home side, but Spurs responded each time with goals from Richarlison and Rodrigo Bentancur. The draw was a significant event for Man Utd, marking their first home league draw since March 2023. The game also unfolded in the presence of prospective shareholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe. For Spurs, this result, combined with their previous win against United, brought them level with fourth-place Arsenal.

The match began dramatically with Hojlund’s early goal, a powerful left-footed strike, setting the pace. Spurs, however, quickly found their rhythm, and Richarlison’s 19th-minute goal, his seventh of the season, brought them level. This goal contributed to Spurs’ record of scoring in 33 consecutive Premier League matches, a new club milestone.

United regained the lead shortly before halftime through Rashford, only for Spurs to respond immediately after the break with Bentancur’s finely executed left-footed strike. Both sides continued to create chances, with Man Utd’s Scott McTominay and Spurs’ Cristian Romero coming close.

Timo Werner, on his Spurs debut, played a pivotal role in the second Spurs equalizer, showcasing the impact of new signings in crucial matches. United also saw the return of Lisandro Martinez, who received a warm reception from the Old Trafford crowd.

The match concluded with both teams pushing for a winner, but ultimately having to settle for a point each. Man Utd moved up to seventh place with 32 points, while Spurs maintained their position two places higher, now with 40 points.

This thrilling fixture not only highlighted the competitive nature of the Premier League but also underscored the depth and quality in both squads, setting an exciting tone for the remainder of the season.

by Abhishek Shukla

Aston Villa Held to a Goalless Stalemate by Everton at Goodison Park

In a closely contested Premier League fixture, Aston Villa missed the chance to equal Liverpool at the top of the table, drawing 0-0 with Everton at Goodison Park. This result marked a crucial point for Everton, who moved one point clear of the relegation zone, ending their three-game losing streak.

The match was historic for Villa’s manager Unai Emery, as it was his first-ever goalless draw in the Premier League. It also stood out as only the sixth match this season in the top flight to end without a goal. Both teams paid tribute to former Everton chairman Peter Johnson, who passed away earlier this week, by wearing black armbands.

Everton’s lineup was strengthened by the return of Abdoulaye Doucoure, making his first appearance since December. Seamus Coleman also made history, surpassing Tim Howard to make a club record 355th Premier League appearance. Aston Villa, coming off an FA Cup win against Middlesbrough, saw the return of Diego Carlos, Douglas Luiz, Moussa Diaby, and Ollie Watkins, with Youri Tielemans on the bench.

The game was action-packed, with Villa initially believing they had taken the lead in the 18th minute through Alex Moreno, but VAR intervened, ruling Leon Bailey offside in the buildup. Everton responded with chances of their own, only to be thwarted by Villa’s goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez with key saves against Dominic Calvert-Lewin and James Garner.

The second half saw continued intensity. Everton’s James Tarkowski made crucial interventions to keep the score level. Villa’s late push in the final minutes, including a vital challenge by Everton’s Vitaliy Mykolenko and a last-minute block by Seamus Coleman, ultimately did not break the deadlock.

The match ended with Aston Villa in third place with 43 points, level with Manchester City in second but trailing on goal difference. Everton’s hard-fought point keeps them just outside the relegation zone, one point ahead of Luton Town, who have a game in hand.

This match, though goalless, was a testament to the competitive nature of the Premier League, with both teams showcasing their defensive strengths and resilience.

by Abhishek Shukla

Osimhen’s Heroic Header Salvages Point for Super Eagles Against Equatorial Guinea

In a gripping encounter at Ebimpe’s Alassane Ouattara Olympic Stadium, the Nigerian Super Eagles managed a 1-1 draw against a resilient Equatorial Guinea in their opening match of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Group A.

Equatorial Guinea opened the scoring with a composed finish by Ivan Salvador in the 36th minute, momentarily stunning the Super Eagles. The Equatorial Guinean lead, however, was short-lived. Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen responded with a crucial header, levelling the scoreline and saving his team from an early setback.

The first half was marked by Nigeria’s intense efforts to overturn the deficit, highlighted by Moses Simon’s shot striking the upright just before halftime. The second half saw a more balanced contest, with neither side significantly troubling the opposing goal. Both teams’ defenses remained disciplined, minimizing chances and maintaining the deadlock.

Looking ahead, Nigeria faces a highly anticipated clash against Cote d’Ivoire, who started their campaign with a convincing 2-0 win over Guinea-Bissau. This upcoming match is set to capture the attention of the entire African football community.

Equatorial Guinea, buoyed by their performance and the vital point secured, will next face Guinea-Bissau, who are looking to rebound from their opening loss.

The results leave Group A intriguingly poised, with Cote d’Ivoire leading, while Equatorial Guinea and Nigeria are just a point above Guinea-Bissau. The Nigerian side, with its blend of experienced and emerging talents, will be keen to build on this performance and assert their status as one of the favorites in the tournament.

by Abhishek Shukla

UAE Overcomes Hong Kong in a Commanding 3-1 Victory

In their opening match of the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ Group C, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) secured a convincing 3-1 win over Hong Kong, China at Khalifa International Stadium. This victory marks a positive start for the UAE in their quest for glory in the prestigious continental tournament.

Despite the defeat, Hong Kong had a historic moment with Philip Chan Siu Kwan scoring the 1,000th goal in AFC Asian Cup history. This milestone goal not only etched Chan’s name in the annals of the tournament but also highlighted the rising standards and competitiveness of Asian football.

The match saw the UAE exerting their dominance early on, showcasing their technical superiority and tactical discipline. The Emirati team’s cohesive play and strategic maneuvering on the field were evident as they maintained control throughout the game.

Hong Kong, despite being the underdogs, displayed commendable resilience and determination. They challenged the UAE with a spirited performance, reflecting their growth and potential in Asian football. The historic goal by Chan was a high point for the team, bringing a sense of achievement amidst the challenging match.

As the tournament progresses, the UAE’s strong start positions them as a team to watch, with their eyes set on advancing further and making a significant impact. On the other hand, Hong Kong, though facing a setback, will look to build on their positive aspects and continue their development in the highly competitive landscape of Asian football.

This match not only provided an entertaining spectacle for the fans but also underlined the evolving dynamics and increasing parity in Asian football, promising an exciting and unpredictable AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™.

by Abhishek Shukla

Japan Triumphs Over Vietnam in a Thrilling 4-2 Victory

In a dramatic showdown at Al Thumama Stadium, Japan emerged victorious with a 4-2 win against Vietnam in their AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ Group D opener on Sunday. Japan’s four-time champions were tested thoroughly by a resilient Vietnamese side, coached by former Japan coach Philippe Troussier.

The match began with Japan taking an early lead through Takumi Minamino in the 11th minute. However, Vietnam responded assertively, turning the game around with goals from Nguyen Dinh Bac and Pham Tuan Hai. This sudden shift in momentum had Japan reeling, but Minamino, unfazed, found the net again in the 45th minute, bringing the teams level at half-time.

The second half saw Japan regain control, with Keito Nakamura bending in a right-footed strike five minutes into the half, tipping the balance in Japan’s favor. The game’s pace continued at a high tempo, with both sides creating chances. However, Japan’s tactical discipline and experience gradually began to tell.

Substitute Ayase Ueda sealed the victory for Japan in the 86th minute with a deflected strike, ensuring that the four-time champions started their campaign with a vital three points. The match was a testament to Japan’s resilience and tactical acumen under the guidance of Hajime Moriyasu, showcasing their ability to respond under pressure.

Vietnam, despite the loss, demonstrated commendable spirit and tactical organization, challenging a much-favored Japanese side. Coach Philippe Troussier can take heart from his team’s spirited performance against his former side, signaling Vietnam’s potential to compete at the highest levels in Asian football.

The victory sets Japan up confidently for their next group stage matches, while Vietnam will look to bounce back, building on the positives from this encounter. This thrilling match not only provided entertainment but also highlighted the growing competitiveness and quality in Asian football.

by Abhishek Shukla

Football unites in Sydney for first-ever A-Leagues Unite Round

Sunday 14 January, 2024: The inaugural Unite Round has concluded with non-stop action on and off-field as the A-Leagues became the first league in Australia to host a full men’s and women’s round in a single city.

On field was headlined with great football, a record-equalling amount of goals in single round and close encounters across the 12 Isuzu UTE A-League Men and Liberty A-League Women games. A total of 28 goals were scored, including two from Michelle Heyman at Canberra United who became the first woman in Liberty A-League Women history to score 100 goals. Wellington Phoenix moved top after a 4-3 win over Perth Glory, and Adelaide United moved into the top six after a thrilling 4-3 victory over Sydney FC in the Isuzu UTE A-League Men.

The weekend also delivered a football feast for fans off-field, kicking off on Friday night with a multicultural celebration at CommBank Stadium that saw more than 350 fans representing 40 nationalities taking part in a lap of honour to celebrate the multicultural foundation of football in Australia and New Zealand.

More than 200 girls also got the chance to rub shoulders with Liberty A-League Women and Matildas stars Cortnee Vine, Alex Chidiac and Kyah Simon at the Girls Unite grassroots clinics that took place over Friday and Saturday at Leichhardt Oval. Across the weekend, fans were also able to engage in an array of other family-friendly activities at fan zones at each stadium including player signings, live music, giveaways, face painting and more.

Nick Garcia, A-Leagues Commissioner, said:

“The A-Leagues is proud to have hosted its first-ever Unite Round which brought fans from every club to Sydney for 12 exciting games of football over three days in fantastic venues.” 

“The weekend delivered outstanding football, vibrant energy in stadiums and great family entertainment on and off the field. With cumulative match attendance across the weekend surpassing 47,000 the unique atmosphere created by multiple active fans and families in stadiums was a great showcase of what is unique about Unite Round.”

“This is just the start of a unique tradition in our game. We’ve already begun planning for Unite Round next season, and will take on feedback from fans, clubs, players and partners, as we look to build on this success in years to come.”

by Steve Murphy PL

De Bruyne Shines as Manchester City Clinch Thrilling Victory Over Newcastle

MANCHESTER, Jan. 14, 2024 – Kevin De Bruyne delivered a spectacular performance off the bench, propelling Manchester City to a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory against Newcastle United in a pulsating Premier League encounter. De Bruyne’s goal and assist marked a triumphant return to Premier League action, guiding City closer to the top of the table.

The game at St James’ Park unfolded with high intensity from the outset. Newcastle thought they had an early lead through Sean Longstaff, but celebrations were cut short by an offside call in the build-up. City’s Ederson, colliding with Kyle Walker in the incident, struggled with an injury and was later substituted for Stefan Ortega.

Manchester City gradually found their rhythm, with Bernardo Silva opening the scoring in the 26th minute, courtesy of a brilliant flick from Walker’s low cross. However, Newcastle United, dangerous on the counter, struck back with two quick goals. Alexander Isak’s sublime strike leveled the score, followed swiftly by Anthony Gordon’s curler, sending Newcastle into halftime with a surprising lead.

De Bruyne’s introduction in the 69th minute shifted the game’s momentum. Making his first Premier League appearance since August, the Belgian maestro equalized in the 74th minute with a clinical finish from outside the box. As the match seemed destined for a draw, De Bruyne delivered a magical assist in stoppage time, finding Oscar Bobb, who expertly navigated past Martin Dubravka to net his first Premier League goal and secure a vital win for City.

This win, Manchester City’s third in a row, narrows the gap with league leaders Liverpool to just two points, intensifying the title race. For Newcastle, the loss – their fourth in succession – is a setback, dropping them to 10th in the standings with 29 points.


Kevin De Bruyne’s return to Premier League action couldn’t have been more impactful. His decisive contributions off the bench underscore his vital role in City’s quest for a historic fourth consecutive top-flight title. For Pep Guardiola’s side, this victory not only showcases their resilience but also their deep bench strength, pivotal in the long Premier League season.

Meanwhile, Newcastle United, despite the defeat, displayed a spirited performance that will offer some positives as they look to halt their losing streak and climb back up the table.

Manchester City’s title pursuit continues to gather steam, with each game becoming crucial in the fiercely competitive Premier League. As for Newcastle, their challenge will be to regroup and find the form that has eluded them in recent matches.

by Abhishek Shukla

Elephants Triumph in AFCON Opener: Cote d’Ivoire 2, Guinea-Bissau 0

Cote d’Ivoire kicked off their TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign with a convincing 2-0 victory over Guinea-Bissau on Saturday night. The match, held in Abidjan, saw the Ivorian team, also known as the Elephants, assert their dominance early on and maintain control throughout the game.

The opening goal came just four minutes into the match, setting the tone for the rest of the evening. Seko Fofana, the Lens midfielder, seized an opportunity outside the box, unleashing a spectacular strike that left Guinea-Bissau’s goalkeeper Jonas Mendes with no chance. Fofana continued to be a significant threat throughout the first half, nearly doubling his tally but was denied by the crossbar at the 35-minute mark.

Despite occasional counter-attacks from Guinea-Bissau, Cote d’Ivoire remained the dominant force after halftime. Their efforts were rewarded just before the hour mark, when substitute Jean-Philippe Krasso executed an acrobatic finish. The goal came after excellent setup work from Jonathan Bamba, solidifying Cote d’Ivoire’s lead and essentially sealing the match’s outcome.

The Elephants’ next challenge in Group A will be a formidable one against three-time champions Nigeria. However, based on this composed and confident opening performance, Cote d’Ivoire appears well-prepared. They are poised to pursue continental glory on their home turf, especially with key players like Fofana and the in-form striker Sebastien Haller showcasing their talent.

Cote d’Ivoire’s blend of skill and team cohesion in this opening match sets a high standard for their campaign, suggesting they could be serious contenders for the AFCON 2023 crown.

by Abhishek Shukla

Resilient Syria Holds Uzbekistan to Goalless Draw in AFC Asian Cup

Doha, Jan 13, 2024 – In their AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ Group B match at the Jassim bin Hamad Stadium, Syria managed to hold a dominant Uzbekistan team to a 0-0 draw on Saturday. The result was somewhat of a disappointment for Uzbekistan, who were looking to make a strong start in a group led by Australia after their 2-0 win over India earlier in the day.

The draw demonstrates Syria’s resilience and tactical discipline, particularly in defense, against a side that was expected to take the full three points. Uzbekistan, despite creating several chances, couldn’t find the breakthrough, leaving them with a crucial point to start their campaign.

This result sets an intriguing tone for the rest of the matches in Group B, as teams jostle for position to advance to the next stage of the tournament. Both Uzbekistan and Syria will look to build on this performance in their upcoming fixtures, with Uzbekistan needing to enhance their attacking play and Syria looking to maintain their solid defensive setup.