FC Goa marked a historic chapter in their football journey by clinching a spot in the AFC Champions League 2 group stage after defeating Al Seeb 2-1. This is the Gaurs’ first appearance at this stage since their memorable 2021 campaign.
The match saw an energetic start from the Indian Super League side, with Dejan Drazic opening the scoring in the first half. The Goan crowd erupted again when Javier Siverio, making his debut for the club, doubled the lead with a confident finish.
Al Seeb pushed hard to claw back into the game and managed to score one, but FC Goa’s disciplined defense and composed game management ensured the victory.
This result not only reaffirms FC Goa’s reputation as one of India’s top football clubs but also reignites hopes of making a strong mark in continental football. Fans are now eager to see the Gaurs shine on the AFC stage once again.
Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the most celebrated footballers in the world, has taken a big step off the field — he’s engaged! The Portuguese superstar proposed to his longtime partner, Georgina Rodriguez, and she joyfully said YES.
The couple has been together since 2016, building a life filled with love, travel, and family moments. Over the years, Georgina has been a constant presence by Ronaldo’s side, supporting his career across clubs in Spain, Italy, England, and now Saudi Arabia.
The engagement announcement has taken social media by storm, with fans across the globe sending their warm wishes to the couple. Known for their glamorous lifestyle and heartfelt family moments, Ronaldo and Georgina’s upcoming wedding will no doubt be one of the most talked-about celebrity events of the year.
While no wedding date has been confirmed yet, excitement is already building among fans eager to see this power couple say “I do.”
Xavi Never Applied: AIFF Duped by Fake Email From 19-Year-Old, Say Reports
In a stunning turn of events, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) finds itself at the center of a bizarre controversy involving Barcelona legend Xavi Hernandez.
Earlier this month, AIFF officials told the Times of India that Xavi had formally applied for the vacant head coach role of the Indian national team. The federation claimed the application was ultimately rejected due to financial constraints, citing his high salary expectations.
But now, explosive revelations from top European football journalists contradict AIFF’s claims entirely.
According to Fabrizio Romano, one of the most trusted names in global football journalism, “Zero talks took place between Xavi Hernandez and the Indian Federation.” Renowned Spanish journalist Ferran Correas echoed the sentiment, stating through Barca Times that people close to Xavi were “shocked” by the claims and insist he never applied. Correas even suggested the AIFF may have intentionally used Xavi’s name to boost the job’s visibility.
The story took a more scandalous turn when reports emerged that a 19-year-old had created a fake email address — xaviofficialfcb@gmail.com — and sent a bogus application to the AIFF. A video circulating on X (formerly Twitter) appears to show this email as part of the prank.
Despite these claims, AIFF’s National Team Director, Subrata Paul, was quoted by TOI saying, “Yes, Xavi’s name was there. The application was emailed to the AIFF.” However, the email’s authenticity was not verified independently by several outlets, including the Hindustan Times.
The incident comes amid AIFF’s ongoing search for a new national team head coach following the departure of Spaniard Manolo Marquez. Other applicants reportedly include Stephen Constantine, Harry Kewell, Steve Kean, Kibu Vicuna, and Khalid Jamil.
While the search continues, the federation faces serious questions over its credibility, due diligence, and internal vetting process. Whether this was an innocent mistake or an intentional media play, the embarrassment is undeniable — and the football world is watching.
Madrid | July 25, 2025 —The wait is over! FIFA has officially selected Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid, Spain, as the host venue for the 2030 FIFA World Cup Final. The confirmation follows a finalized agreement between Real Madrid CF and FIFA.
With its state-of-the-art renovations and iconic football legacy, the Bernabéu stood out as the prime choice to host one of the most anticipated global sporting events of the decade.
📍 Centrally located in Madrid with world-class access
🎥 Tech-enabled for next-gen global broadcasting
💺 Capacity of over 85,000 fans
This decision is part of the centenary edition of the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted across Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, celebrating 100 years since the first World Cup in 1930.
“Hosting the final at the Santiago Bernabéu is a tribute to football history, excellence, and Real Madrid’s global influence,” said a FIFA spokesperson.
As the world counts down to 2030, fans can expect a final that will go down in football history—set against the majestic backdrop of one of the sport’s most legendary arenas.
Anfield, July 4, 2025: In a deeply emotional tribute, Liverpool Football Club has announced that Diogo Jota’s No.20 jersey will be permanently retired, honouring the Portuguese forward’s legacy following his untimely death in a car accident near Zamora, Spain. The tragic incident, which also claimed the life of his brother Andre, occurred on July 3. Jota was just 28 years old.
In a statement released by the club, Liverpool described the decision as one of rare magnitude—typically reserved for individuals whose contributions transcend the sport. “The No.20 will be rightly immortalized,” the statement read, a poignant nod to Jota’s role in Liverpool’s unforgettable 2024–25 Premier League title campaign.
Jota’s final goal, a dramatic late winner in the Merseyside derby against Everton at Anfield, has now become etched in club folklore. Celebrated passionately in front of the iconic Kop, the moment has gained new meaning in light of his sudden passing—an emblem of the talent, spirit, and joy he brought to the pitch.
Off the field, Jota had recently celebrated a personal milestone—his marriage to longtime partner Rute Cardoso on June 22. The couple shared a beautiful life together, raising three children. His death leaves a profound void in both his family and the wider footballing world.
Born in Massarelos, Portugal, Diogo Jota began his football journey at Gondomar before rising through the ranks at Paços de Ferreira. His breakout caught the attention of Atletico Madrid, who signed him in 2016. Loan spells at FC Porto and Wolverhampton Wanderers followed, with Jota quickly establishing himself as one of Europe’s most promising forwards.
In 2020, he joined Liverpool under manager Jürgen Klopp, immediately making an impact with his clinical finishing and relentless work rate. Across five seasons at Anfield, Jota scored crucial goals, earned the admiration of fans, and became an integral figure in the club’s attacking force.
Liverpool’s decision to retire the No.20 shirt serves as an everlasting tribute—one that places Jota among a sacred group of legends who have shaped the club’s history. It’s a symbol of respect, mourning, and enduring gratitude for a player who gave everything in red.
The global football community continues to express shock and sorrow over Jota’s passing. Tributes have poured in from teammates, rivals, and fans alike, all echoing a common sentiment: Diogo Jota was more than a footballer—he was a beacon of passion, humility, and excellence.
As Liverpool FC prepares to honour him in an official ceremony ahead of their next home game, the words “You’ll Never Walk Alone” resonate now more than ever.
Jota’s name, his story, and his No.20 will live on—forever.
