Tag: Indian Super League

Sports

14 Teams Gear Up as ISL 2025-26 Kicks Off on February 14

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The Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-26 is all set to launch on February 14, marking another thrilling chapter in India’s top-tier football competition. 14 teams from across the country will battle it out over the course of the season, aiming for supremacy, glory, and a chance to lift the coveted ISL trophy.

Fans can look forward to a season filled with tactical battles, emerging young talents, and international stars showcasing their skills on Indian soil. With fixtures scheduled across major cities, the league promises high-energy football, fan engagement, and electrifying stadium atmospheres.

Teams are preparing meticulously, with transfers, pre-season camps, and strategy sessions shaping up ahead of the kickoff. Clubs like Jamshedpur FC, Bengaluru FC, Mumbai City FC, Kerala Blasters, and Odisha FC are expected to be major contenders, while new signings and promising youngsters could change the dynamics of the league.

The ISL continues to grow in stature, nurturing Indian football talent, attracting international attention, and inspiring fans across the country. With the season opener set for February 14, football enthusiasts can expect a fiery start to what promises to be a landmark season.

Stay tuned as the chase for the ISL summit begins!

Sports

Owen Coyle Returns to Jamshedpur FC as Head Coach for ISL 2025–26

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Jamshedpur FC have announced the return of Owen Coyle as Head Coach ahead of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2025–26 season, marking a homecoming that has already ignited excitement among fans. The Scottish coach has signed a two-year contract, with trusted assistant Sandy Stewart joining him as part of the coaching setup.

Coyle’s return evokes memories of one of the most successful phases in the club’s history. During his previous stint, he led Jamshedpur FC to the 2021–22 ISL League Winners’ Shield, transforming the team from mid-table contenders into consistent title challengers through disciplined tactics and an attacking mindset.

The appointment follows the departure of Khalid Jamil, who guided Jamshedpur FC to a fifth-place finish last season before moving on to take charge of the India national football team. With the club keen to build on that momentum, Coyle’s familiarity with the squad culture and expectations made him a natural choice.

Confirming the appointment, Mukul Choudhari, CEO of Jamshedpur FC, described the move as a “natural fit,” citing Coyle’s proven track record, understanding of Indian football, and strong connection with the club’s supporters.

Fans have responded enthusiastically, with the club teasing the announcement on social media using the tagline “The Legend Returns”, a nod to Coyle’s lasting legacy in Jamshedpur. With the ISL season kicking off on February 14, expectations are high as the Red Miners aim not just for playoff qualification, but potentially another title push.

As preparations begin under familiar leadership, Jamshedpur FC will hope that Owen Coyle can once again instill belief, consistency, and silverware ambitions into the squad.

Sports

Indian Super League to Resume on February 14 with All 14 Clubs, Announces Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya

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Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has announced that the Indian Super League (ISL) will resume on February 14, bringing relief to football fans across the country after a temporary pause in the competition.

The announcement came following a crucial meeting involving the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and key stakeholders of Indian football. The league had been halted earlier due to the absence of a confirmed commercial partner, raising concerns over the continuity of the season.

With the resumption confirmed, all 14 ISL clubs, including traditional powerhouses Mohun Bagan and East Bengal, will participate in the remainder of the league. The season will follow a home-and-away format, comprising a total of 91 matches, ensuring a full competitive calendar for teams and fans alike.

The decision is seen as a significant step towards stabilising Indian football’s premier league and restoring confidence among players, clubs, broadcasters, and supporters. Officials expressed optimism that the renewed momentum would strengthen the league’s commercial prospects and overall growth.

The ISL’s return is expected to reinvigorate the domestic football ecosystem and maintain India’s growing presence in the Asian football landscape.

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

FC Goa Return to Continental Football with High-Stakes Clash Against Al Seeb Club

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Indian Super League (ISL) outfit FC Goa are back on the Asian stage this Wednesday, taking on Oman’s Al Seeb Club in the preliminary stage of the AFC Champions League Two at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Goa.

This marks the Gaurs’ first continental outing since 2021, when they made history as the first Indian club to compete in the AFC Champions League group stage. Their ticket to this year’s Preliminary Stage came courtesy of their Kainga Super Cup triumph last season.

The challenge ahead is no small feat. Al Seeb Club are one of Oman’s top footballing forces, having won the Oman Professional League in each of the last two seasons. In 2022, they etched their name in history by becoming the only Omani club to win the AFC Cup — now rebranded as the AFC Champions League Two.

The match is a straight knockout, with the winner advancing to the group stage. For FC Goa, it’s a golden opportunity to extend their continental journey, and they’ll have the backing of passionate home fans under the floodlights in Fatorda.

Back in 2021, FC Goa showcased grit and quality in Asia, holding their own with three draws against tough sides like Al Rayyan (Qatar), Al Wahda (UAE) and Persepolis FC (Iran) — the latter making it to the quarter-finals before bowing out to eventual champions Al Hilal FC.

Match Details:

  • Fixture: FC Goa vs Al Seeb Club
  • Venue: Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Goa
  • Date: 13 August, 2025
  • Kick-Off: 7:30 PM