Iran, April 1 — Iran is required to play its matches for the 2026 World Cup in the USA. FIFA President Gianni Infantino has made it clear that all matches will be conducted according to the scheduled program. The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be hosted by the USA alongside Canada and Mexico, taking place from June 11 to July 19 across 16 different venues. This time, 48 teams will participate, including Iran.

As per agency report, Iran will compete in Group G against Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand, with its group stage matches scheduled to be held in Inglewood and Seattle. Infantino has emphasized that Iran must play all its matches as per the predetermined schedule. He stated that the venues will not be changed, and all matches will take place in the country where they were originally scheduled.

It is noteworthy that the Iranian Football Federation recently expressed a desire to have their matches moved from the USA to Mexico. However, the FIFA president rejected this request, stating that the tournament schedule will not change and all teams must play at the designated locations.

Meanwhile, the Iranian team is currently focused on its preparations. During practice matches held in Turkey, the team showcased its strength, achieving a remarkable 5-0 victory against Costa Rica. Infantino also clarified that Iran will definitely participate in the World Cup, stating that Iran is a strong team and it will be pleasant to see them compete in the tournament. His statement put to rest speculations that Iran might not participate in this World Cup.

The Iranian team has participated in the World Cup seven times so far, and 2026 will mark its eighth opportunity. However, they have never advanced beyond the group stage. Therefore, this time the team faces a significant challenge to change its history. Given their current form, there are expectations for better performance from Iran. It remains to be seen whether this team can improve its past record and secure a place in the next round.

Zurich, December 8: FIFA has decided to implement a three-minute hydration break in both halves of every match during the World Cup scheduled for next year. Referees will stop play to allow players to drink water once 22 minutes have been completed in each half. This rule will be enforced irrespective of the temperature, the specific host country among the United States, Canada, or Mexico, or the presence of roofs and air conditioning in the stadiums.

As per agency report, this decision was reached during a meeting between broadcasters and Manolo Zubiria, the head of the steering committee for the 2026 World Cup main tournament. The modification is expected to benefit broadcasters as they will be aware of the three-minute interruption in both halves in advance. FIFA specified that if a stoppage due to injury occurs just prior to the 22nd minute, the referee will have the authority to announce the hydration break at that time.

Zubiria indicated that the responsibility for managing such instances would rest with the referee. The governing body stated that this step has been taken to make the game simpler and more organized. Previously, the practice involved a break after the initial 30 minutes of play only when the temperature reached 32 degrees Celsius. The current change has been made in view of the heat and humidity that affected players during certain matches of the Club World Cup held in the United States last year.

Mumbai, March 15 – The Indian Super League (ISL) has announced the schedule for its ongoing season’s playoffs, with the final set to take place on April 12. The semi-finals will be played in two legs between April 2 and April 6.

As per agency report, the league stage concluded on March 12, and the knockout matches are scheduled for March 29 and 30. The semi-final matches will take place on April 2, 3, 6, and 7.

Mohun Bagan SG made history by securing the League Winners’ Shield for the second consecutive season, becoming the first team to achieve this feat in ISL history. Along with them, FC Goa (2nd place), Bengaluru FC (3rd), NorthEast United FC (4th), Jamshedpur FC (5th), and Mumbai City FC (6th) have all qualified for the playoffs.

While Mohun Bagan SG and FC Goa earned direct entry into the semi-finals by finishing in the top two positions, the remaining two semi-final spots will be determined through knockout matches between the teams ranked third to sixth.

Conakry, Guinea, December 2 - A tragic stampede at a football match in Guinea's largest city led to the deaths of several people, including children, and left many others injured. The incident occurred during a crowded local tournament final on Sunday, as reported by local media and a coalition of political parties.

The chaos unfolded in the city of N’Zérékoré during a match between teams from Lébé and N’Zérékoré. Prime Minister Amadou Oury Bah stated on social media platform X that the stampede broke out during a tournament held in honor of Guinea's military leader Mamady Doumbouya.

"The number of victims has been recorded," Bah noted, without disclosing the exact death toll. He added that regional authorities are working to restore peace in the area.

According to the "National Alliance for Alternation and Democracy," a coalition of political parties, the stampede resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries. Local media reported that clashes among the crowd triggered the stampede. Security forces attempted to quell the unrest by using tear gas, which further escalated tensions.

"Fans became angry and started pelting stones at the security forces, leading to the deployment of tear gas," reported local outlet Media Guinea.

The stampede claimed the lives of children among other victims, and several injured individuals are reportedly in critical condition at local hospitals.

Efforts to stabilize the situation and ensure peace are ongoing. Authorities have yet to provide a comprehensive account of the incident.

New Delhi [India] October 11: Young Talent from Palanpur Leads Indian U-23 Football Team at Mini Football World Cup Palanpur has a new reason to celebrate its local hero, Mahmood  Saiyed who has recently taken center stage on an international level. Syed Mahmood the son of Maksud Syed, a computer software entrepreneur in Palanpur, has been appointed as the captain of the Indian U-23 football team for the prestigious Mini Football Under-23 World Cup. The tournament, held in Koitiya, Europe, from October 6 to October 11, has put both Syed Mahmood and Palanpur on the map, as he leads the national team in this global competition.

This achievement marks a significant moment for Syed, his family, and the entire community of Palanpur. His journey to this accomplishment was neither sudden nor easy—it began with his passion for football and cricket during his childhood, nurtured at the Multipurpose Vidyamandir School in Palanpur. There, Syed Mahood dedication to sports was recognized early, and he was encouraged to pursue his dream of playing at a national level.

Now, standing as captain of the Indian team, Syed Mahmood has brought immense pride to his hometown, demonstrating that talent, when coupled with dedication, can break through geographical boundaries. This international achievement showcases not only his individual skill but also the hard work he has put in over the years to achieve success in a highly competitive field.

Syed Mahmood who is also pursuing a degree in software engineering, has had to balance his academic commitments with his passion for football. His story is an inspiring example of how one can excel in multiple domains with persistence, discipline, and time management. He acknowledged his family’s unwavering support, particularly his father’s encouragement, as a major factor in his success.

Syed Mahmood journey has not been a solitary one, as he is also backed by Emechmart, an eCommerce platform under the N & T Engitech Pvt. Ltd. (NNT group of companies). Emechmart, which is known for its comprehensive range of industrial, agricultural, automotive, and building products, has emerged as a trusted name since its inception in 2008. The company, which operates with an ISO and CE certification, recognized the potential in supporting a young, promising talent like Syed Mahmood Their sponsorship has played a critical role in allowing Syed to pursue his international ambitions and participate in the Mini Football World Cup.

In a statement, Syed Mahmood expressed his gratitude for the support he has received:

“I am incredibly grateful to my family, my coaches, and Emechmart for their belief in me. It’s a dream come true to represent India on an international stage. This opportunity wouldn’t have been possible without their encouragement and guidance. I hope to make Palanpur and the entire country proud with our performance in the tournament.”

This sponsorship from Emechmart is a reflection of the company’s broader commitment to uplifting local talent and giving back to the community. As an organization that started its journey in 2009and has rapidly grown in both size and market presence, Emechmart’s evolution from a simple eCommerce player to a leader in the field of industrial supplies is testament to the company’s vision of nurturing potential. Supporting Syed Mahmood is one such example of how Emechmart aims to leave a positive impact beyond its business domain.

As the Indian football team battles it out in Croatia, Syed Mahmood presence as captain is a testament to his grit and hard work. It also signals a bright future for Indian football, where young talent from small towns like Palanpur can rise to global prominence with the right combination of support, skill, and opportunity.

Syed Mahmood story will inspire many, not only in Palanpur but across India, proving that dreams can come true with the right amount of determination, talent, and support. As he takes on the role of captain, all eyes are on him to see how he leads his team in this prestigious tournament. Whatever the outcome, Syed’Mahmood journey is already a victory for himself, his family, and the town of Palanpur, setting a benchmark for future generations to follow.

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New Delhi (India), June 12: Ranjit Bajaj, Director of Minerva Academy FC, has emerged as a significant figure in the development of Indian football, especially at the grassroots level. His contributions over the past nine years have not only brought accolades to his name but have also revitalized the football landscape in North India. This article delves into his journey, achievements, and the profound impact he has had on Indian football.

Early Contributions and Formation of Clubs

Ranjit Bajaj’s journey in football management began in 2015 with the establishment of Minerva Punjab FC, which later became Punjab FC, a team now competing in the Indian Super League (ISL). His vision was clear: to build a robust infrastructure for nurturing young talent. Over the years, he founded additional clubs, including Minerva Academy FC, Himachal FC, Techtro Swades United, and Delhi FC. Each of these clubs has contributed significantly to the development of young footballers in India, providing them with the platform and resources needed to excel.

Accumulation of Trophies

Bajaj’s leadership has led to an impressive collection of 68 trophies, which are a testament to his effective management and strategic vision. His achievements include both national and international titles. Internationally, his teams have triumphed in prestigious tournaments such as the Gothia Cup 2023, Mina Cup 2022, and Subroto Cup 2023. These victories have placed Indian football on the global map, showcasing the potential of young Indian players.

Nationally, Bajaj’s teams have secured 13 significant titles. These include the U15 and U16 Youth I-Leagues, RFYS School Boys Championship, Hero I-League, School India Cup, U13 Youth League, U18 Youth League, and the Hero Futsal Club Championship. The consistent performance of his teams in these leagues underscores his commitment to excellence and his ability to foster talent that can compete at the highest levels.

Impact on North Indian Football

One of Bajaj’s most commendable contributions has been the revitalization of football in North India. Before his intervention, the region lacked the necessary infrastructure and opportunities for young footballers. Bajaj’s initiatives have transformed this scenario. He has established residential academies and state leagues, providing a structured pathway for aspiring footballers. This has not only increased participation in the sport but has also raised the overall standard of football in the region.

Scholarships and Player Development

Bajaj’s commitment to developing young talent is evident in the scholarship programs run by his academy. Over 200 students, starting from the age of seven, have received 100% scholarships. This initiative ensures that financial constraints do not hinder talented individuals from pursuing their dreams. The academy’s meticulously designed pathway program guides these students to the senior team, ensuring their holistic development both on and off the field.

Nurturing International Talent

The impact of Bajaj’s efforts extends beyond his academy. Over 240 players nurtured under his guidance have represented India in various categories, including senior, U23, U22, U20, U19, U18, U17, U16, U15, U14, and U13 teams. Notable players like Sandesh Jhingan, Kamaljit Singh, Vikram Partap Singh, and Jeakson Singh, who scored India’s first goal in a FIFA World Cup match, are among those who have benefited from his mentorship.

Several players have achieved international recognition due to their exceptional performances. For instance, Himanshu Jangra was named in the Next Generation 2021 list, highlighting the best young talents in world football. Similarly, Bikash Yumnam was featured in the Next Generation 2020 list. These recognitions underscore the quality of training and development provided under Bajaj’s leadership.

International Achievements and Recognition

Bajaj’s teams have also made significant strides in international competitions. His players’ performances have garnered attention and accolades, bringing pride to Indian football. Anwar Ali’s goal against Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina in the U-20 Cotiff Cup and Thoiba Singh Moirangthem’s record as the youngest ever goalscorer in the AFC Cup are notable achievements. These milestones reflect the high level of skill and competitiveness instilled in the players.

Conclusion

Ranjit Bajaj’s journey in Indian football is a remarkable story of vision, dedication, and success. His contributions have not only resulted in numerous trophies but have also laid a strong foundation for the future of Indian football. By establishing clubs, providing scholarships, and nurturing talent, he has created a sustainable model for grassroots development. Bajaj’s impact on North Indian football and his role in producing players who excel at the national and international levels highlight his exceptional service to the sport.

As Indian football continues to grow, the efforts of individuals like Ranjit Bajaj will remain crucial in shaping its future. His relentless pursuit of excellence and unwavering commitment to nurturing young talent make him a deserving recipient of accolades and recognition. Through his work, Bajaj has not only transformed the lives of many young footballers but has also significantly contributed to the growth and development of Indian football as a whole.

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Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], April 17: In a groundbreaking move to nurture India’s budding football talent, BigHit, a dynamic multi-sports platform, hosted the highly anticipated Bundesliga Dream U13 National Finals in association with The Football League (TFL) on April 13-14 in Palava. It was an opportunity for the top 200 young football players from about 100 cities and 11 states to showcase their extraordinary football skills to be scouted by Bundesliga Clubs coaches and Bundesliga legend.

Bundesliga clubs will grant a training camp opportunity to the scouted 30 footballers, paving the way for their ascent to European football stardom. These 30 footballers will be heading to FC Augsburg & Eintracht Frankfurt. FC Augsburg in the Bundesliga, stands at the top tier of the German football league system and boasts over 18,800 members, making it the largest football club in Swabian Bavaria. Additionally another Bundesliga club, with almost 14,000 active athletes across over 50 sports in 2024, stands as the largest multi-sports club in the world with a professional football team.

Shaktie Shukla, the founder of BigHit, shared his thoughts on the event, stating, “This collaboration marks a significant milestone in our journey to empower Indian football talent. By providing a platform for these young players to showcase their skills and gain exposure to top-tier training, we are laying the groundwork for a brighter future for Indian football. BigHit aims to leverage its partnerships with more than 22 state and national sports federations, Bundesliga, and FC Bayern Munich so that young and talented individuals can showcase their skills.”

The event brought together the most promising young talents, allowing them to showcase their abilities in front of Bundesliga legend Claudio Pizarro, and famous scouts including Armin Kraaz, Head of Sports Projects, Americas, from Eintracht Frankfurt, and Jonathan Dietrich, Co-Trainer U14 from FC Augsburg. The top 30 players were carefully selected to train exclusively at Bundesliga clubs in Germany, opening the doors to their European football dreams. Additionally, BigHit organised a friendly match between Bundesliga legend, scouts, coaches, officials and celebrities of Bollywood, thereby amplifying the efforts of the Indian cinema industry.

As the U13 Bundesliga Dream national final takes centre stage, BigHit serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring Indian footballers, providing them with a transformative platform to express them. Showcasing their talent and starting their journey to becoming European football stars.

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Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], January 5: SK United Football, a premier development centre for emerging football talents, is set to organise the highly-awaited Season 3 of the Ahmedabad Premier League (APL) from January 6 to March 9.

As a part of its commitment to providing top-notch training and support to players pursuing a career in football, SK United Football led the way in creating APL, which is recognised by AIFF, after the COVID-19 pandemic. In just two seasons, APL has evolved into a unique platform for young footballers to showcase their talents and open the doors for national selection under AIFF’s flagship grassroots programme.

Sponsored by Meghmani, Reflecting on APL’s remarkable journey in just three years, Shikha Goswami, Director of SK United Football, said, “The Ahmedabad Premier League is not just a tournament but an important stepping stone for young football players to show their skills and get noticed. The first two seasons led to the discovery of some very promising players and we are optimistic that the third season will unearth even more exciting talents.”

From a modest start with just eight teams in the first season, APL experienced an exhilarating surge in Season 2 with a remarkable 34 teams participating in the tournament. With over 50 teams competing for the prized trophy, Season 3 of APL promises to be an extraordinary tournament.

Jaimin Shah, spokesperson of SK United Football, said, “The unprecedented growth of Ahmedabad Premier League is because of the collective efforts of our players, sponsors, and most importantly, fans. The overwhelming response to the league underscores its importance in providing a platform for emerging talent and further strengthens its status as the premier football tournament in Ahmedabad.”

Established with a mission to provide the right blend of training and coaching expertise to players and help them pursue professional football careers, SK United Football has experienced exponential growth.

Under the supervision of SK United Football Founders Shahbaz Khan and co-founder Anand Pandya, the academy now nurtures over 150 players, both male and female, in the 7-19 age group. The academy is not only dedicated to enhancing players’ skills but also strives to create opportunities for them to excel in state and national-level tournaments.

SK United Football invites football enthusiasts, sponsors and fans to participate in Season 3 of the Ahmedabad Premier League.

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New Delhi, July 20 (IANS) Indian men's football team climbed a rank in the latest FIFA rankings, released on Thursday, to be placed in the 99th position.

The Blue Tigers are unbeaten in 2023 and have picked up three trophies winning the Hero Tri-Nation Cup, Hero Intercontinental Cup and the SAFF Championship in the calendar year.

"ᴡᴇ ᴍᴀʀᴄʜ ᴏɴ.. India climbed up to 99 in the latest official @FIFAcom world ranking #BlueTigers #IndianFootball," said the Indian football team in a tweet.

Sunil Chhetri and Co. are unbeaten in their last eleven matches, winning seven during the process.

Under head coach Igor Stimac, the national team seems to be picking up form at the right time with the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers scheduled to take place later this year and the AFC Asian in January 2024.

The Indian team has achieved a double-digit ranking after five years and will hope to further climb the ladder in the coming months.

India will next be in action in September when they travel to Thailand to take part in the King’s Cup followed by a visit to Malaysia to participate in the Merdeka tournament before the World Cup qualifiers begin.

The Blue Tigers will thus enter an action-packed and crucial stretch of months as they look to showcase their ability on the biggest stage in Asia.

Mumbai, July 18 (IANS) DD Sports has achieved a groundbreaking milestone by securing the television broadcast rights in India for the highly anticipated FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 starting July 20, 2023.

Prasar Bharti, CEO, Gaurav Dwivedi IAS said, "We are HAPPY to have secured the television broadcast rights for the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023. This prestigious tournament not only showcases the immense talent and dedication of women in football but also serves as a platform to inspire the next generation of athletes. We are proud to partner with 1Stadia in this endeavour, as they share our passion for promoting sports and fostering a love for the game among fans." 

Indian football enthusiasts will witness every electrifying moment of the tournament, as DD Sports channel is available in all households across the country, ensuring that everyone has access to this premium sporting event. 

The FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 promises to be a historic event, with footballing prowess and passion on full display. The upcoming ninth edition of the tournament, featuring 32 teams, is set to kick off in Australia and New Zealand on July 20, 2023. 

The USA, reigning world champions, aim to clinch their third consecutive World Cup title, while Canada, the Olympic gold medalists, have showcased their strength as formidable adversaries, defeating star-studded teams like the USA, making them a team worth keeping an eye on along with teams like England, Netherlands, Spain, Germany and more. 

New Delhi, July 11 (IANS) Eighteen years and 92 international goals since his India debut, skipper Sunil Chhetri said that he could not have ever scripted his career the way it has unfolded in the last two decades.

The 38-year-old, who led the Blue Tigers to successive championship victories in the form of the Intercontinental Cup and the SAFF Championship, is eternally grateful for the love that the masses continue to shower upon him at every given opportunity. 

Speaking to the Indian Super League (ISL), Chhetri expressed ecstasy at the course that his playing career has undertaken.

The star striker has thrived in multiple clubs across the country and prospered in his overseas stints too. However, it is his unbreakable bond with the senior national team that continues to garner affection for him everywhere he goes. 

“If anyone would have given me a book and asked me to write my dream life down back then, maybe, I wouldn’t have written it the way it has turned out to be. I say this with extreme humility. It’s an absolute privilege and honour to be who I am. I am profoundly blessed. The number of years I have played, the number of things I have achieved, the people I have shared the dressing room with, it’s an unbelievable feat. I am very thankful to a lot of people for that,” the Bengaluru FC talisman said. 

“I am Sunil Chhetri. There’s only one and I am living an absolute dream,” he further quipped. 

Despite the unadulterated warmth laden upon him, Chhetri is still in awe of major personalities across other spheres of life. He let his millions of fans know that he appreciates the courage that they gather to come up and talk to him whenever they the India captain. The forward went to the length of revealing that he has had to overcome nerves whilst bumping into the likes of Sachin Tendulkar and senior actor Amitabh Bachchan in public events previously.

“Whenever I meet Mary Kom, she will know that a fan has come to meet her. I met Neeraj Chopra. Of course, he is very sweet and he reciprocates the same feeling. When I met Mr. Bachchan, at first, I was a bit hesitant but I did accumulate the strength to go and tell him that I am a big fan. The first time I met (Sachin) Tendulkar, I was a bit hesitant. We were both invited as chief guests at a football tournament. He was being very nice and it’s not often that I am short of words but I was a little hesitant to tell him exactly what a big deal he is for me and the whole country,” Chhetri revealed. 

However, in his own words, he relates and connects the most with Indian cricket stalwart Virat Kohli. The two legends, hailing from Delhi, walk very similar paths in their respective careers. They stress the extreme importance of the need for a strict diet and lead by example with their exemplary fitness standards. 

Chhetri disclosed that there are certain discussions about dealing with and overcoming pressure and expectations that the two of them have talked about in great detail. 

“We talk about a lot of normal things. We share a lot of laughter. We share a lot of jokes and a lot of funny stuff. I have had a lot of deep and meaningful chats. It’s not like we talk 24x7 every day. There are phases when we don’t talk for months but the best part is that he understands and so do I. But, we catch up exactly from where we left it. The few times when I have felt the heat of who I am and the need to perform and the few times that he has felt the heat of who he is and the need to perform, is exactly when we have chatted. He understands that not everyone can understand what we are going through and it just hits the right note,” he opened up. 

New Delhi, July 9 (IANS) Backing head coach Igor Stimac's call for a 4-week camp, Indian men's football captain Sunil Chhetri said that it is essential for a team to have longer camps ahead of the AFC Asian Cup.

After completing a treble of titles in 2023, winning the Tri-Nation Cup, Intercontinental Cup, and the SAFF Championship, Indian men will be looking forward to participation in the King’s Cup in Thailand in September, and the Merdeka Cup in Malaysia in October, as part of their preparation for the AFC Asian Cup, scheduled to take place in Qatar from January 12 to February 10, 2024.

India, placed 100 in FIFA rankings, have been drawn in Group B of the AFC Asian Cup, where they will face the likes of Australia (22), Uzbekistan (74), and Syria (94).

"For a team like ours, especially for the Asian Cup, where we know we will face the likes of Australia, Uzbekistan, and Syria, longer camps would always be helpful. When the boys play at the ISL, they are playing at a certain level. But let’s be honest, when we meet Australia, we would meet competition that is a couple of levels higher, if not more," said Chhetri during a virtual media interaction on Sunday.

The skipper also said that the team needs to play friendlies against some of the top teams in Asia before the continental tournament.

"That's the reason why when we come together and train, we know that it helps a bit. That is the reason why we need longer camps, and to play 2-3 friendlies against some of the top teams in Asia," he added.

He further went on to state that the Blue Tigers need to face one of the top teams in Asia to gauge themselves for their clash against Australia.

"(Playing) Iraq will tell us what we need to do against Uzbekistan, and then, maybe closer to the Asian Cup, we need to play one of the top teams in Asia, like Iran, Japan, or the Korea Republic, in order for us to be better prepared for Australia," he said.

While the AFC Asian Cup is set to take place in Qatar in January 2024, Chhetri is not one to look too far ahead into the future as he believes "to keep a short-term target."

"I’m not sure what my expectations are exactly for the future, and that’s the way I am. I only keep short-term targets. I don’t know about targets for the Asian Cup or the World Cup Qualifiers, but we are going to take things on a short-term basis and keep fighting. This is what I’ve been telling the whole team," the 38-year-old skipper said.

India's record ninth SAFF Championship victory after a nerve-wracking penalty shootout against Kuwait in the final saw praise being showered on them from all walks of life. However, Chhetri urged his boys to keep their heads down and carry on.

"This limelight that we’re getting we all like it, but we cannot get ahead of ourselves. There is an invisible pressure on everyone, and we like it, we enjoy it. It’s not just us players or coaches, but everyone –- AIFF, the Government, the clubs, and the corporate houses. Even the media as well. Everyone is under an invisible pressure when we need to perform," said Chhetri.