Tag: Football News

Sports

GFA Cracks Down on Match-Fixing: 14 Players Charged in Goa Pro League Probe

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa Football Association has taken a decisive step in addressing alleged match-fixing in the Goa Professional League 2025-26 season by issuing a detailed 288-page chargesheet to 14 players, most of whom are former members of Chapora Yuvak Sangh. The move marks a significant development in one of the most serious integrity-related investigations in Goan football in recent years.

The probe was initiated after Chapora Yuvak Sangh sacked nine players in October 2025 and subsequently filed a formal complaint along with an FIR at Mapusa Police Station. In response, the Goa Football Association appointed retired Deputy Superintendent of Police Sandesh T. Chodankar as the Investigating Officer to conduct a thorough inquiry into the allegations.

Following months of investigation, the Ethics Committee compiled an extensive chargesheet outlining the findings and evidence against the players involved. The accused players have now been given a period of 10 days to submit their responses, after which the committee is expected to deliberate and announce its decision in early March. Potential sanctions could have significant implications for the players’ careers and the broader football ecosystem in the state.

Speaking on the development, GFA President Dr. Caitano Fernandes reiterated his commitment to cleaning up the sport in Goa. He stated that upon taking office in 2022, he had assured clubs of firm action against unethical practices and emphasised that the association is moving steadily towards fulfilling that promise. He further added that the Executive Committee will take the strongest possible action against those found guilty.

The case has drawn widespread attention within the football community, highlighting the ongoing challenges of maintaining integrity in competitive sport. As the process moves forward, the outcome is expected to set a strong precedent for governance and accountability in Goan football, reinforcing the importance of fair play and transparency in the game.

Sports

Lionel Messi’s Emotional Return to Camp Nou: A Heartfelt Message and a Historic Milestone

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Sports Desk

Lionel Messi made a secret and deeply emotional return to Camp Nou on Sunday night — his first visit since leaving FC Barcelona in 2021. Fresh off guiding Inter Miami past Nashville in the MLS Playoffs, Messi took a sentimental detour to revisit the stadium where his extraordinary journey began.

It was a symbolic and heartwarming moment for the Argentine icon, who has never hidden his longing for the club that defined his career. Messi spent over two decades at Barcelona, winning countless trophies and the hearts of millions, before an unforeseen financial crisis forced his departure in tears.

Following his quiet return, Messi took to Instagram to share a heartfelt message: “Last night I returned to a place I miss with my soul. A place where I was immensely happy, where you guys made me feel a thousand times the happiest person in the world. I hope one day I can come back, and not just to say goodbye as a player, as I never got to…”

The visit came just as Barcelona reopened the Camp Nou for a senior team training session amid ongoing renovations. The club remains optimistic about returning to play home matches at the iconic venue later this season.

Messi’s emotional night was matched by another milestone on the field — the Argentine maestro recorded his 400th career assist during Inter Miami’s 4-0 demolition of Nashville in the MLS Cup playoffs. He scored twice and set up two more goals for teammate Tadeo Allende, showcasing his enduring brilliance at 38 years old.

Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano praised Messi’s relentless energy and leadership, saying, “He was the first one who guided us in high pressure. To see him press like that at 38 years old is crazy. We all know about Leo with the ball, but what happened with Leo without the ball today was impressive.”

With over 900 goal contributions and counting, Lionel Messi continues to define footballing greatness — not only through his talent but also through the emotion and humility that have made him beloved around the world. His visit to Camp Nou was more than nostalgia; it was a reminder of the unbreakable bond between a legend and the club that will forever be his home.

Sports

Cristiano Ronaldo Says Retirement Is “Soon,” Reflects on Legacy, Family, and Manchester United

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Sports Desk

Cristiano Ronaldo has announced that his retirement from professional football is approaching, acknowledging that leaving the game he has devoted his life to will be one of the most emotional moments of his career. Speaking on Piers Morgan Uncensored, the 40-year-old Al Nassr forward said he has been mentally preparing for this stage since his mid-to-late twenties, but admitted that nothing will ever replace the excitement of scoring a goal.

“Soon,” Ronaldo said when asked about when he plans to retire. “I think I will be prepared. It will be very, very difficult. But I have prepared my future since I was 25, 26, 27 years old. I think I will be capable to support that pressure. Nothing compares to the adrenaline you have scoring a goal in football. But everything has a beginning and everything has an end. I’m going to have more time for myself, for my family, to raise my kids.”

Ronaldo’s illustrious career has been defined by record-breaking achievements, including being football’s all-time leading goalscorer with 952 goals for club and country combined. Despite already cementing his place among the greatest players of all time, the Portuguese star has publicly stated that he aims to reach 1,000 career goals before calling time on his career.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner also reflected on life beyond football, saying he wants to focus on his family and raising his children. He emphasized that he has long been planning for this transition, ensuring he’s ready to embrace a new chapter once he finally steps off the pitch.

Ronaldo also spoke about his continued emotional connection with Manchester United, the club where he rose to global fame. “I’m sad because the club is one of the most important in the world and one that I still have in my heart,” he said. “They don’t have a structure. I hope that changes in the present and future because the potential of the club is amazing. They are not on a good path. And it’s not only about the coach and players… miracles are impossible.”

His comments highlight both nostalgia and concern for the club that helped shape his early career. Despite his current focus on Al Nassr and Saudi Arabian football, Ronaldo’s heart clearly remains tied to Manchester.

As he nears the end of his playing days, Cristiano Ronaldo’s reflections paint the portrait of a man who has conquered every level of football yet continues to pursue excellence. Whether or not he reaches his goal of 1,000 career goals, his legacy as one of the greatest to ever play the game is already secure — and his next chapter, devoted to family and life beyond football, is about to begin.

Sports

Is Cristiano Ronaldo Coming to Goa? Here’s What We Know

Tanisha Cardozo

FC Goa’s CEO, Ravi Puskur, has spoken candidly about the buzz surrounding Al Nassr’s visit to India — and the possibility of Cristiano Ronaldo joining the team on the trip.

In a strong statement, Puskur acknowledged the magnitude of the situation. “Let’s be frank, this footballer is bigger than the team. He owns around 20% stake in Al-Nassr, and he is such a global figure that if he decides to sit out a match, even the head coach can’t really overrule him,” he said.

The Indian Super League club is leaving no stone unturned. Puskur revealed that a delegation will be sent to speak with Ronaldo directly. “We’re sending a delegation to speak to him directly. If Ronaldo isn’t coming, we’ll be upfront about it. We don’t want to mislead anyone,” he added.

The CEO also acknowledged the hype — and the risk — for fans. Tickets are reportedly selling fast. “But if he does come and tickets are already sold out, then fans who took that chance will have struck gold,” said Puskur. “They will get to watch, possibly, the greatest footballer ever to walk the planet. After all, a clash with Al Nassr, one of Saudi Arabia’s top clubs, is an event in itself.”

The anticipation now boils down to two key points, as outlined by Puskur:
One — Cristiano Ronaldo is officially registered to play in the match.
Two — Whether or not he boards the flight to Goa.

“That’s something we will only know closer to the time,” he concluded.

If it happens, it will be a landmark moment for Indian football — one that could go down in history as the day Cristiano Ronaldo brought his game to Goa.

Sports

Goan Football Cup 2025 Unites Communities in London, Sets New Records

Tanisha Cardozo

The Goan Football Cup 2025 has emerged as a monumental celebration of sport, culture, and community abroad. Held at Cranford Community College in London on August 23, the tournament drew record participation, with 28 men’s teams and three women’s teams — making it the largest Goan football tournament outside Goa.

The second edition of the event reinforced the Goan community’s love for the game while showcasing its inclusive nature. Players from different communities competed side by side, with Goan teams putting up strong performances against sides featuring seasoned English 5-a-side players.

One of the most inspiring stories of the tournament was the participation of Wilred United Goa, led by manager Joe Vas. The team traveled from Goa to London, making a powerful statement about the global reach of Goan football. Their women’s team, which included former India junior international Anline Fernandes, dominated the competition and won the championship without conceding a single goal. Their victory, achieved in their very first appearance together, stands as a proud moment for Goan women’s football and the diaspora.

Southall Athletic WFC put on a strong performance to finish as runners-up in the women’s tournament after an unbeaten group stage. In the men’s category, it was Daily Ballin who emerged victorious, defeating Filthy Starz in a thrilling finale.

But the event was about much more than just the matches. The Goan Football Cup transformed into a festival, with families and fans enjoying authentic Goan food by Pratos De Goa, Feni cocktails by GoaTails, and vibrant live performances from artists Saneev, Rochus, and singer Braga. The atmosphere was electric, merging sport with cultural pride.

The prize distribution ceremony, led by community leaders Xavier Vas, Jules Alberto Dias, Ruksana Braz, and celebrated singer Mark Revlon, honoured team achievements and individual excellence.

With its growing stature, the Goan Football Cup has now firmly established itself as the flagship Goan sporting event outside India. As the community celebrates this success, one thing is clear — this is just the beginning of a powerful legacy that will continue to unite Goans and amplify their passion for football on a global stage.