Tag: ISL

Sports

ISL 2025–26 Season Put on Hold Amid Uncertainty Over Master Rights Agreement

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

New Delhi, July 2025 — The Indian Super League (ISL) has announced that its 2025–26 season is officially on hold due to ongoing uncertainty over the renewal of the Master Rights Agreement (MRA) between the Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) and the All India Football Federation (AIFF).

The MRA — a crucial document outlining broadcasting, commercial, and operational control of Indian football — is set to expire on December 8, 2025, right in the middle of the typical ISL season calendar. Without a renewed framework in place, organisers are unable to move forward with scheduling, marketing, or team preparations.

In a letter sent to all ISL clubs, FSDL stated:

“In the absence of a confirmed contractual framework beyond December, we find ourselves unable to effectively plan, organise, or commercialise the 2025–26 ISL season. We regret to inform you that we are currently not in a position to proceed and are placing it on hold until further clarity emerges.”

Stalemate in Negotiations

The situation is further complicated by a Supreme Court directive that prohibits the AIFF from entering into fresh negotiations with FSDL until a final verdict is delivered on the AIFF draft constitution case.

Meanwhile, sources close to the matter told ESPN that one of the revised MRA proposals being discussed involved a 60–26–14 ownership split between ISL clubs, FSDL, and AIFF respectively — potentially reshaping the league’s structure and governance.

What’s at Stake?

FSDL, the commercial partner of AIFF since 2010, currently pays ₹50 crore annually to manage and broadcast the ISL and other national football properties. The disruption of this agreement could ripple across the football ecosystem, affecting:

  • Club planning and signings
  • Broadcasting contracts
  • Fan engagement initiatives
  • National team visibility

FSDL has assured clubs it will continue to monitor the situation and provide timely updates.

A Pivotal Moment for Indian Football

This pause signals one of the most pivotal moments in Indian football’s recent history. The ISL, launched in 2014, has been central to raising the profile of the sport in the country. A prolonged delay could threaten this momentum unless clarity on the MRA is achieved soon.

As fans and stakeholders await a resolution, the spotlight turns to the courts and governing bodies to chart a path forward for India’s premier football league.

Sports

FC Goa and Armando Sadiku Part Ways Ahead of Super Cup

allycaralgoa

In a mutual decision, FC Goa and Albanian striker Armando Sadiku have parted ways ahead of the Kalinga Super Cup 2025. This development comes as the team prepares to face Gokulam Kerala FC in the tournament.


During his time with FC Goa, Sadiku made a significant impact, scoring 10 goals and providing 2 assists in 24 ISL appearances. His impressive form was evident in his first seven consecutive games, where he scored 8 goals. Although he struggled to find the back of the net in the latter part of the season, his contributions to the team were invaluable.


Sadiku’s journey with FC Goa was marked by several notable moments, including:

  • Crucial Wins: He played a vital role in FC Goa’s 2-1 victory over Punjab FC, scoring a goal and helping the team come back from behind.
  • Goal-scoring Prowess: Sadiku’s ability to find the back of the net was impressive, and he finished as FC Goa’s top scorer in the ISL 2024-25 season.

With Sadiku’s departure, FC Goa will regroup and focus on their upcoming matches. The team will look to build on their existing squad and make a strong impression in the Kalinga Super Cup.

Sports

FC Goa Shatters 13-Match Winless Streak Against Mumbai City with Thrilling 3-1 Victory

allycaralgoa

In an electrifying Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 match, FC Goa delivered a stunning performance to outclass Mumbai City FC 3-1 at the Mumbai Football Arena on Wednesday. This victory marked a significant milestone for the Gaurs, as they broke their 13-match winless streak against the Islanders in the competition.


FC Goa’s triumph was built on a dominant display, with Iker Guarrotxena stealing the show with a brilliant brace. Borja Herrera sealed the win with a goal in the second half, propelling the Gaurs to second place in the standings with 39 points from 20 games.


Guarrotxena opened the scoring in the 24th minute with a breathtaking solo effort. Picking up the ball at the edge of the 18-yard box, he dribbled past the Mumbai City FC defense before striking a precise shot into the bottom right corner. This goal set the tone for FC Goa’s victory.


After Guarrotxena’s second goal in the 41st minute, FC Goa extended their lead in the 64th minute when Herrera capitalized on a poor headed clearance by Mehtab Singh. Left unmarked inside the box, Herrera calmly placed his shot into the bottom right corner, securing a 3-0 lead for the Gaurs.


Despite FC Goa’s defensive efforts, Mumbai City FC earned a late penalty after goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari committed a foul. Lallianzuala Chhangte stepped up and converted from the spot with a left-footed shot down the middle, denying FC Goa a clean sheet. However, the Gaurs comfortably walked away with all three points.


FC Goa’s head coach, Manolo Marquez, made strategic substitutions to secure the victory, bringing in Dejan Drazic, Seriton Fernandes, and Sahil Tavora for Herrera, Udanta, and Ayush Dev Chhetri. This tactical move ensured that the Gaurs maintained their lead and closed out the match.


FC Goa’s 3-1 victory over Mumbai City FC marked a significant turning point in their ISL campaign. With this win, the Gaurs strengthened their position in the standings and sent a strong message to their competitors. As the ISL season unfolds, FC Goa will look to build on this momentum and make a push for the top spot.