FIFA WC Qualifier: Kolkata looks ready for one of the biggest occasions in Indian football

IANS | June 5, 2024 11:45 PM

Kolkata, June 5 (IANS) The city that breathes football has been called upon to host the player that has fuelled the passion and desire in every Indian football fan, Sunil Chhetri's farewell game. As one of the greatest stories of Indian football gets ready to write its final chapter at the Mecca of Indian football, the Salt Lake Stadium looks more ready for the momentous occasion.

I've been fighting a small battle every day, says Chhetri on retirement ahead of the final match for India (Ld)

IANS | June 5, 2024 7:45 PM

Kolkata, June 5 (IANS) At the end of Sunil Chhetri's penultimate training session of his 19-year international career for India, he quietly picked up a ball, delicately placed it on the penalty spot, and signalled Vishal Kaith to take his place between the sticks. As he's done at the end of every training session, Chhetri wanted to take a few attempts from 12 yards out before wrapping up for the day.

‘It’s not about me,' says Sunil Chhetri ahead of farewell match against Kuwait

IANS | June 5, 2024 5:32 PM

Kolkata, June 5 (IANS) As India’s football icon Sunil Chhetri gears up for his final international match, he is determined to shift the spotlight from his retirement to the team’s crucial FIFA World Cup Qualifier against Kuwait. A victory on Thursday will almost secure India's place in the third round of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers, bringing them a step closer to the 2026 finals in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Football: Vinicius Jr deserves Ballon d'Or, says Neymar

IANS | June 4, 2024 11:57 PM

Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), June 4 (IANS) Brazil star Neymar has backed compatriot Vinicius Junior to win this year's Ballon d'Or after the Real Madrid forward played a leading role in his club's UEFA Champions League and La Liga triumphs. Vinicius was named the Champions League's Player of the Season after scoring six goals and assisting five in 10 matches.

La Liga: 10 things we learned this week in Spanish football

IANS | June 4, 2024 9:02 PM

Madrid, June 4 (IANS) There were so many big storylines in the world of Spanish football this week, not least the Champions League final that was won by Real Madrid in London. Other major developments included the promotion of CD Leganes and the hiring of new coaches at three La Liga clubs.

'You have to be open to everything,' says Kevin De Bruyne on Saudi rumours

IANS | June 4, 2024 6:20 PM

New Delhi, June 4 (IANS) Kevin De Bruyne joined Manchester City from Bundesliga side VFL Wolfsburg in 2015. Over the next 10 years, he has transitioned into what many call the best attacking midfielder of the decade. The No. 17 has stated that a move to the Saudi Pro League may be on the cards in the future with his current contract with City set to expire in 2025.

‘These moments won’t break us’, Jadon Sancho hails Dortmund’s efforts despite CL final loss

IANS | June 3, 2024 7:50 PM

New Delhi, June 3 (IANS) Jadon Sancho’s journey this season was nothing short of a fairytale, from being a benchwarmer at Manchester United to playing for Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League final. Following their 2-0 defeat to Real Madrid at Wembley in the final, Jadon Sancho took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to write a heartfelt letter to the Black and Yellow family.