Tag: Indian Football

Sports

FC Goa Edge Mumbai City FC 2–1 to Enter AIFF Super Cup 2025 Final

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FATORDA, GOA | December 4, 2025 FC Goa marched into their third AIFF Super Cup final after clinching a gripping 2–1 win over Mumbai City FC at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Fatorda. The defending champions were tested throughout the night, but early goals from Brison Fernandes (20’) and David Timor (23’) were enough to secure the victory and book a title clash with East Bengal.

The match began in extraordinary fashion, with dramatic scenes unfolding even before kick-off. FC Goa captain Iker Guarrotxena was sent off due to a tunnel incident, forcing a last-minute change in the starting lineup as Javier Siverio stepped in. Despite losing their leader, Goa remained unfazed and focused.

Their resilience showed almost instantly. In the 20th minute, Brison Fernandes pounced on a defensive misjudgment from Mumbai’s Rubio, firing a powerful left-footed shot past Phurba Lachenpa to send Fatorda into raptures. Just three minutes later, Goa struck again. Timor unleashed a fierce long-range effort that Lachenpa mishandled, allowing the ball to loop helplessly into the net, gifting the champions a 2–0 cushion.

Goa continued to dominate much of the first half. Timor nearly doubled his tally from a stunning free-kick, forcing Lachenpa into an outstanding save, before the goalkeeper denied Borja Herrera on the rebound. Mumbai City, though shaken, remained dangerous—most notably when Jorge Pereyra Díaz rattled the crossbar with a sharp effort.

The second half ignited with Mumbai pushing forward aggressively. In the 52nd minute, Hrithik Tiwari brought down Díaz, leading to a penalty. But Lallianzuala Chhangte failed to convert, sending his effort high over the bar, a moment that deeply stung Mumbai’s momentum.

Seven minutes later, Mumbai finally found a breakthrough. Pereyra Díaz slipped a clever ball to Brandon Fernandes, who steadied himself despite slipping and placed a composed finish into the bottom corner. At 2–1, the semi-final roared back to life.

The final half-hour was an all-out Mumbai offensive—relentless pressure, rapid combinations, and multiple attempts on goal. But FC Goa’s defence stood tall, with Hrithik Tiwari making critical saves to keep the Gaurs in front. Mumbai threw bodies forward in stoppage time, but could not force an equaliser.

With the victory, FC Goa advance to the Super Cup final, where they will attempt to defend their crown. However, they will be without captain Guarrotxena, who remains suspended following the pre-match incident.

Sports

AIFF Super Cup 2025: FC Goa Face Mumbai City FC in Blockbuster Semifinal at Fatorda

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Fatorda, December 3, 2025: The reigning AIFF Super Cup champions FC Goa are set to light up the Fatorda Stadium once again as they prepare for a much-awaited semifinal showdown against arch-rivals Mumbai City FC on Thursday, December 4, at 8:00 PM IST.

This semifinal arrives at a crucial moment for FC Goa, who have endured one of the most demanding stretches of competitive football among all ISL clubs. While Indian football has seen an extended break in domestic action, the Gaurs have remained in top-flight rhythm. Over the last three months, FC Goa have played an AFC Champions League Two qualifier against Al Seeb (Oman), three Super Cup group-stage matches, and five AFC Champions League Two fixtures against top clubs from Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Tajikistan.

With all their Asian away fixtures completed, the champions return home physically sharp, mentally seasoned, and fully in rhythm—an advantage that could prove decisive in a knockout fixture of this magnitude.

Speaking about the team’s momentum, Head Coach Manolo Marquez said:
“I would prefer to be in FC Goa’s position with more training and more games. Playing in the AFC Champions League Two against strong teams helps a lot. But again, this is a knockout match—90 or 120 minutes—anything can happen.”

Meanwhile, Mumbai City FC enter the semifinal after nearly a month without competitive action. Despite this, Marquez emphasized that they remain one of the most consistent and formidable sides in Indian football:
“They are a quality team with strong foreigners, an experienced coach, and several Indian national team players.”

FC Goa head into the semifinals after a strong group-stage campaign, finishing top of their group despite a narrow loss to NorthEast United in a rotated final match. With the semifinal at hand, the Gaurs are expected to return to a more settled starting XI, restoring full strength as they push to defend their crown.

Young defender Ronney Wilson, who has impressed in both AFC Champions League and Super Cup fixtures, spoke about the team’s unity and growth:
“Playing in the Champions League has helped all of us improve. The bond in the dressing room is strong thanks to all these games. We’re ready for the next challenge.”

This matchup also carries emotional weight. Their last meeting in February 2025 saw FC Goa deliver one of their most dominant wins—a 1–3 victory in Mumbai, highlighted by a brace from former fan-favourite Iker Guarrotxena and a composed goal from Borja Herrera. That performance dismantled the hosts and remains a proud memory for the Gaurs.

Now, under the floodlights of Fatorda, the champions return home with rhythm, confidence, and the unwavering support of the Gaurs faithful as they prepare for a high-stakes semifinal filled with intensity, passion, and drama.

Sports

Mandar Rao Dessai Calls on AIFF to Act: “India Needs Its Football Back”

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Sports Desk

Former India international and current Chennaiyin FC player Mandar Rao Dessai has urged football authorities to take immediate action to end the growing uncertainty surrounding the Indian Super League (ISL). In a heartfelt message shared on Instagram, the Goan footballer described the situation as an “existential crisis” for Indian football and appealed to the All India Football Federation (AIFF) to act swiftly and bring clarity to the future of the league.

Mandar, who has represented India and played for clubs including FC Goa and Chennaiyin FC, voiced his frustration over the ongoing delay in the start of the ISL season. His message resonated with players and fans alike, as he called for transparency and urgency from those responsible for managing the sport.

In his post, Mandar wrote that professional footballers across the ISL are united in their plea to resume competitive football in the country. “We want to play, and now,” he said, expressing the collective desperation of players who have been waiting for months to return to the field. He added that the lack of communication and direction from the authorities had left players, clubs, and supporters in the dark.

Mandar’s statement followed a turbulent period for Indian football, with the AIFF’s tender process for broadcast, sponsorship, and digital rights ending without success. The failed process, which was meant to ensure the league’s long-term stability, has instead intensified uncertainty and speculation about the ISL’s immediate future.

With no official start date or clarity from the federation, frustration continues to mount among players, clubs, and fans. Many believe that the ISL, once heralded as a new era for Indian football, now faces its toughest test yet.

Mandar’s words reflect a deep sense of passion and urgency, calling for the authorities to act in good faith and restore confidence in Indian football. As he put it, “We’ve been in a dark tunnel for too long — we could do with a little light.”

The call for action from senior players like Mandar Rao Dessai highlights a growing movement within the Indian football community — one that demands accountability, clarity, and the revival of the sport that millions across the country love.

Sports

Ryan Williams Becomes Indian Citizen: A New Chapter in Indian Football History

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By Allycaral Desk

In a landmark development for Indian football, former Australian winger Ryan Williams has officially received Indian citizenship — a move that signals the All India Football Federation’s (AIFF) intent to include Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) in the country’s football ecosystem.

The special moment unfolded in Bengaluru, where Williams’ Bengaluru FC teammate and Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri handed him his newly issued Indian passport. The heartwarming handover, filled with smiles and camaraderie, was captured on camera and quickly went viral across social media.

Ryan Williams, who has previously played in the English Championship and the A-League, joined Bengaluru FC earlier this year. His decision to take up Indian citizenship has been widely lauded by fans and sports experts as a potential game-changer for Indian football, both in terms of global exposure and skill development.

Speaking about the milestone, Williams expressed gratitude, saying, “I’m proud to call India my home. This country has given me so much, and I’m excited to give back on the field wearing the Indian colours.”

With this step, the AIFF is moving closer to integrating talented players of Indian origin and OCI holders into the national setup — a long-discussed reform that could elevate India’s footballing standards on the global stage.

The handover by Sunil Chhetri, India’s most celebrated footballer, symbolized the passing of both pride and responsibility. As fans celebrated online, it became clear that this moment was not just about citizenship — but about belonging, unity, and a bold vision for India’s sporting future.

Stay tuned to allycaral.com for more updates on Indian sports, lifestyle, and inspiring stories that connect the globe. 🌍⚽

Sports

Goa Has Sporting Talent but Needs the Right Guidance and Support: Mandar Rao Dessai

Tanisha Cardozo

Panjim, Goa – The passion for football in Goa remains as vibrant as ever, and former Indian national team footballer and current Chennaiyin FC player Mandar Rao Dessai believes that the state has the potential to produce even more world-class athletes — provided they receive the right guidance and support.

Speaking at a sports kit distribution event in Arpora–Nagoa, organized by the V.P. Arpora–Nagoa Panchayat, Mandar emphasized the importance of nurturing young sporting talent through community involvement and mentorship. Reflecting on his own journey, the 33-year-old footballer recalled the challenges he faced during his early days. “When I started playing, there were challenges — lack of kits, infrastructure, and support. But today, everything is available,” he said.

Mandar noted that while opportunities for sports have grown significantly across India, many young players still struggle due to limited financial and infrastructural support. He urged everyone — from local organizations and coaches to families and sports clubs — to come together to provide the right environment for emerging athletes. “We all should come together to motivate and guide young players so they can become great athletes,” he said.

The footballer also highlighted the crucial role that families play in shaping the careers of young sportspersons. “Support from family and friends — whether moral or financial — is crucial. I have represented my state and country, and I know there are many more talented players in Goa who just need the right training and guidance,” he added.

Calling discipline and dedication the cornerstones of success, Mandar expressed optimism that Goa will continue to produce outstanding athletes who can make India proud. “Football runs in the blood of every Goan,” he said, capturing the enduring spirit of the state’s connection with the sport.

During the event, Mandar thanked the Panchayat officials for their efforts in promoting grassroots sports and encouraged further development of local sporting infrastructure. His message was clear — with passion, perseverance, and community backing, Goa’s next generation of athletes can achieve greatness on national and international stages.