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India Gazette
30-06-2025
- Sport
- India Gazette
Mohun Bagan Super Giant's all-time best XI in ISL: Ultimate Mariners line-up since 2020
Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], June 30 (ANI): Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG) may have only joined the Indian Super League (ISL) in the 2020-21 season, but their influence on the competition has been far from short-lived. In just a few years, the Mariners have emerged as a dominant force, defined by their unwavering consistency, bold ambition, and relentless pursuit of silverware, as per the official website of ISL. The Kolkata giants have made it to the playoffs every single time, which speaks volumes about their planning and winning mentality. Not just that, but with back-to-back ISL Shields, two ISL Cups, and numerous iconic wins along the way, Mohun Bagan Super Giant have rapidly cemented their status among the elite clubs in the ISL. Whether through moments of tactical brilliance, attacking flair, or defensive steel, the team has rarely compromised on quality. Their squads have boasted both Indian stalwarts and high-profile international names, making our task of selecting an all-time ISL starting XI incredibly challenging. Each season has brought new heroes, but we've tried to strike a balance. While Arindam Bhattacharja impressed in Mohun Bagan Super Giant's debut ISL season, winning the Golden Glove with 10 clean sheets in 23 matches, and Amrinder Singh showcased his brilliance the following year, it's Vishal Kaith who earns the nod as our goalkeeper for the Mariners' all-time XI. Kaith's consistency over the last three seasons has been remarkable. Since joining the club, he has made 75 appearances, recorded 35 clean sheets, and conceded just 69 goals. His performances between the sticks have been key to the team's recent success, helping them win two ISL Shields and two ISL Cups. Crucially, Kaith played an instrumental role in both ISL Cup final victories and has won the Golden Glove twice in the last three seasons, making him a clear standout for this position. Just like Kaith, Asish Rai joined Mohun Bagan Super Giant ahead of the 2022-23 season, and has since become a mainstay on the right flank. Known for his work rate, defensive awareness, and attacking overlaps, Rai has brought the right balance to the team's right-hand side. Rai has made 66 appearances so far, contributing to 20 clean sheets. In attack, he has also provided four assists and scored one goal, a memorable strike against his former club, Hyderabad FC, in the 2023-24 season. Under Juan Ferrando, he even operated in more advanced roles at times. His consistency, versatility, and ability to contribute on both ends of the pitch make him a deserving inclusion in this all-time XI. Pritam Kotal may have moved on, but he will always be remembered as a fan favourite and a cornerstone of Mohun Bagan Super Giant's early ISL years. A natural leader, Kotal mastered both the right-back and right centre-back roles with equal confidence and consistency. In his 68 appearances over three seasons with the Mariners, he played a key role in organising the defence and helped the team lift one ISL Cup. He was everything you'd want in the spine of a successful team: vocal, commanding, and fully committed, with a superb reading of the game and often underrated technical ability. His reliability and leadership in high-pressure moments give him the edge over Sandesh Jhingan for this position in our all-time XI. Alberto Rodriguez made an instant impact in his debut campaign, taking an already solid defence to the next level alongside Tom Aldred. His influence at both ends of the pitch was crucial, as he played a key role in helping the Mariners achieve a historic ISL double in the 2024-25 season. Rodriguez was involved in 14 of the team's 16 clean sheets, displaying his excellent positional sense, calmness under pressure, and sharp defensive instincts. He also made a difference in attack, contributing five goals and one assist, proving to be a consistent threat on set-pieces. His dominance in both boxes and composure in a debut season in a new league give him the edge over other strong contenders like Tiri and Aldred, who also had a terrific debut year. No need for an explanation about this selection. Subhasish Bose has been Mohun Bagan Super Giant's most dependable left-back in the ISL era and arguably one of the best the league has ever seen in his position. A true leader on and off the pitch, Bose took over the captaincy following Pritam Kotal's departure and has since led the team to two ISL Shields and one ISL Cup in just two seasons. He has been with the club since their ISL debut and has remained a regular over the past five seasons, playing as a left-back, occasionally in advanced roles, and even as a centre-back when required. With 115 appearances and involvement in 47 clean sheets, his defensive reliability speaks for itself. Most impressively, in the 2024-25 season, Bose showcased a new dimension to his game by scoring six goals, the most ever by a defender in a single ISL campaign. There's no doubt that Carl McHugh's defensive stability in midfield was a key factor in Mohun Bagan Super Giant's strong start in the ISL. His presence played a major role in helping the team establish itself as a serious contender from the very beginning. A tireless worker and a coach's dream, McHugh made 60 appearances for the Mariners across three seasons. Known for his intelligence and adaptability, he often dropped deep between the centre-backs to help build play from the back, while also breaking up opposition attacks with sharp anticipation. His grit, determination and ability to read the game made him an essential part of the team's core during those formative years in the ISL. With such consistency and influence, McHugh earns a well-deserved spot in this all-time XI. Many may feel it's too soon to include Apuia in Mohun Bagan Super Giant's all-time XI, but his impact in just one season has been nothing short of transformational. The Indian international fulfilled a dream long held by the MBSG fans, helping the club achieve an ISL double in the 2024-25 season. Arriving with high expectations following a major summer move, Apuia rose to the occasion and took complete control of the midfield. He was the heartbeat of the team, linking defence and attack, dictating tempo, winning duels, and even stepping up with a match-winning goal when needed. While Deepak Tangri has been a consistent figure in MBSG's midfield for years, Apuia's numbers and leadership in an ISL double-winning campaign make his inclusion in this XI hard to overlook. Another player who has been representing Mohun Bagan Super Giant since they entered into the ISL is Manvir Singh, who rightfully earned his place in this all-time XI. A versatile forward capable of operating across the front line, he has mostly been deployed on the right wing, where he has consistently delivered in key moments. Throughout his time at the club, Singh has registered 23 goals and 18 assists, blending strength, speed, and a tireless work ethic to become a mainstay in the Mariners' attack. His impact, particularly in high-stakes matches, has solidified his reputation as one of the most reliable and valuable Indian forwards in the league. Since joining Mohun Bagan Super Giant in 2022, Dimitri Petratos has been at the heart of everything good in attack. The Australian forward has delivered in pressure moments time and again, becoming a fan favourite with his eye for goal and creative spark. In just 70 appearances, Petratos has scored 26 goals, the highest total in the club's ISL history, and added 17 assists, showcasing his ability to both finish and create chances. His influence has been key in the Mariners' most successful run, which includes two ISL Cups and back-to-back ISL Shields. A complete modern forward with leadership qualities, Petratos has etched his name into club folklore with consistent match-winning performances. Liston Colaco has been enjoying the best phase of his career at Mohun Bagan Super Giant since arriving from Hyderabad FC. Over the past four seasons, he has been a consistent force down the left flank, delivering with flair, pace, and precision. His quick feet, ability to strike from distance, and signature knuckleball technique, both in open play and from set-pieces, have made him a nightmare for defenders. Whether it's creating chances or finishing them, Colaco has been a vital part of the Mariners' attacking play. Given his impact and consistency, he is an easy choice for the left wing in our all-time XI. Roy Krishna was the heartbeat of Mohun Bagan Super Giant's attack during their early years in the ISL, especially under Antonio Habas. He was a constant threat to opposition defences with his intelligence and an unmatched work ethic. Though the Mariners narrowly missed out on silverware during his two-season spell, Krishna's impact was undeniable. His movement, link-up play, and knack for delivering in high-pressure moments made him a complete striker and a fan favourite. In the Green and Maroon shirt, Krishna recorded 21 goals and 12 assists, consistently delivering on the biggest stages. While Jason Cummings has been outstanding over the past two seasons, it's Krishna's role in shaping the club's attacking identity during its formative ISL years that gives him the edge in this all-time XI. Antonio Lopez Habas gets the nod as head coach in this all-time XI, thanks to his two impactful spells with Mohun Bagan Super Giant. While the team narrowly missed out on silverware during his first stint, his return proved historic, guiding the Mariners to their first-ever ISL Shield. Habas's ability to manage high-profile players across both spells, instill a winning mentality, and consistently compete at the top level gives him the edge over Jose Molina, who won the ISL double in his debut season with the Mariners. (ANI)
India Gazette
10-06-2025
- Sport
- India Gazette
Last-minute penalty breaks Indian hearts in Hong Kong
Kowloon [Hong Kong], June 10 (ANI): A heartbreaking stoppage time penalty condemned India to a 0-1 defeat against Hong Kong, China, in Group C of the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 Qualifiers Final Round at the Kai Tak Stadium, on Tuesday. In front of a raucous crowd of 42,570 at the newly opened stadium, substitute Stefan Pereira struck from the spot in the 94th minute, leaving the Blue Tigers with just one point from two matches in Group C. Singapore defeated Bangladesh 2-1 in Dhaka in the other match of the group to climb to the top of the table. Hong Kong, with the same number of points, are second, with Bangladesh and India occupying third and fourth spots, respectively. The atmosphere in Kowloon was electric. The Kai Tak Stadium, hosting its first football match, was packed to the rafters with fans vocally backing the home side. Energised by the occasion, Hong Kong started with tempo, purpose, and aggression. Their movement was sharp, and they worked the ball out wide, trying to stretch India's defence. However, despite their energy and possession, they struggled with penetration in the final third. India's defence, marshalled by Sandesh Jhingan and Anwar Ali, stood firm against repeated Hong Kong attacks, according to AIFF website. The hosts were forced into speculative long-range efforts, but India goalkeeper Vishal Kaith showed composure and positioning to deal with most attempts. On the rare occasions when Hong Kong slipped a ball through the defence, Kaith was quick off his line to smother the danger. India took time to grow into the match but found rhythm midway through the first half. Their approach was built on defensive discipline and counter-attacking bursts through the pace of Liston Colaco, Lallianzuala Chhangte and Ashique Kuruniyan. Brandon Fernandes operated effectively in midfield, distributing with intent and winning key duels. India's best chance of the first half came in the 35th minute. Fernandes pounced on a loose pass and released Colaco down the left. Colaco delivered an inch-perfect cross across the face of goal, and Kuruniyan met it with a well-timed run only to sky his effort, failing to trouble the goalkeeper. Six minutes later, Hong Kong threatened. A deep free-kick from Soares Junior Walter floated dangerously into the box, bypassing defenders and reaching Oliver Gerbig at the far post. His flicked attempt was met by a swift reaction from Kaith, who came off his line to block the shot before Anwar Ali cleared the danger. India began the second half with renewed aggression. Kuruniyan had another sight of goal just outside the box but was again unable to keep his shot down. To inject more quality in the final third, India head coach Manolo Marquez introduced Sunil Chhetri with a little over an hour to go. Chhetri made an immediate impact, dropping deep to facilitate link-up play and carving out half-chances for teammates. In the 82nd minute, Chhangte surged down the right and cut back a precise ball for Chhetri. The talismanic striker's shot was goal-bound, but a block from a Hong Kong defender denied him. Just as the match appeared destined for a second successive goalless draw for India, disaster struck. A long hopeful ball was floated toward India's box in injury time. Kaith charged out in an attempt to clear but mistimed his jump and collided with Hong Kong forward Michael Udebuluzor instead of punching the ball. Referee Sheikh Ahmad Alaeddin had no hesitation in pointing to the spot. Kaith, for his efforts, was shown a yellow card. Substitute Stefan Pereira stepped up and calmly slotted the penalty into the bottom corner, sending Kaith the wrong way and the home crowd into euphoria. For India, it was a cruel end to a match where they had held their own for 90 minutes. The focus now shifts to their fixture against Singapore in October. (ANI)
Mint
10-06-2025
- Sport
- Mint
India's AFC Asian Cup 2027 hopes dented by 0-1 defeat to Hong Kong
India's campaign in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers took a hit as they lost against Hong Kong on Tuesday (June 10). The Blue Tigers suffered a 0-1 defeat at the Kai Tak Sports Park in Kowloon, Hong Kong. Despite a spirited performance and support from the Indian fans in the stands, Team India failed to convert chances. They ultimately paid the price for missed opportunities and a late defensive lapse. Notably, this loss marks a contrast to India's dominant 4-0 victory over Hong Kong in the 2023 Asian Cup qualifiers. The first half saw India create several chances, particularly in the attacking third. The Blue Tigers matched Hong Kong's intensity, with both teams registering two shots on target. A key moment came in the 39th minute when Liston Colaco passed the ball to Ashique Kuruniyan inside the box. However, Kuruniyan hesitated, opting not to shoot with his right leg. Instead, he attempted a less favourable angle with his left, resulting in his effort going in vain. This missed opportunity proved costly, as India failed to capitalize on their dominance and went into the break level at 0-0. India's defense, led by goalkeeper Vishal Kaith, held firm for much of the match. India managed to defend against Hong Kong's attacks despite the hosts' growing pressure in the second half. However, the game's turning point arrived in the added time of the second half. A moment of miscommunication saw Kaith collide with Hong Kong's Udebuluzor while both players contested a high ball in the penalty area. The referee promptly awarded a penalty, a decision that left the Indian team stunned. Stepan Pereira stepped up for Hong Kong, to take the penalty. Kaith, anticipating the shot, dove the wrong way, and the ball went into the net, securing a 1-0 lead for Hong Kong. The late strike left India with no time to recover. With this loss, India's qualification hopes for the AFC Asian Cup 2027 have taken a blow, but the campaign is far from over. The Blue Tigers seek to bounce back after addressing their finishing woes and tightening their defensive coordination in upcoming matches.
Time of India
10-06-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
India go down 0-1 to Hong Kong in crucial 2027 Asian Cup Qualifier match
NEW DELHI: The suffered a heartbreaking 0-1 defeat to hosts Hong Kong after conceding a stoppage-time penalty in a crucial 2027 AFC Asian Cup Qualifier on Tuesday. The decisive goal came from Stefan Pereira in the 94th minute after a costly foul by India goalkeeper Vishal Kaith. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The referee pointed to the spot after Kaith charged off his line and collided with Michael Udebuluzor while attempting to punch the ball clear. Pereira made no mistake from the spot, calmly slotting the ball to Kaith's right. The Indian custodian was also shown a yellow card for the late challenge. Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW! Earlier in the evening, head coach Manolo Marquez opted to keep veteran striker and talisman Sunil Chhetri out of the starting XI. Despite the raucous support for the home side at the newly built Kai Tak Stadium, India looked promising in the early exchanges and created a handful of chances in the first half, although Hong Kong dominated possession. However, as has often been the case of late, India's lack of clinical finishing once again proved costly. Their best opportunity of the half came in the 35th minute when Ashique Kuruniyan, set up beautifully by Liston Colaco's run and cross from the left, fired wide from close range. Colaco, who had earlier received treatment for an injury, also tried his luck with a powerful long-range effort, but it went straight into the hands of the Hong Kong goalkeeper. Hong Kong grew into the game as the first half progressed and nearly broke the deadlock through a set-piece, only to be denied by a goal-line clearance from Ashish Rai after Kaith was beaten. Both sides had their moments in a tightly contested opening 45 minutes, but neither could capitalize. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Kuruniyan, effective down the flank throughout the match, had another opportunity early in the second half but again couldn't convert. In an attempt to inject urgency into the Indian attack, Marquez introduced Sunil Chhetri and Naorem Singh in place of Kuruniyan and Brandon Fernandes. MLC: Venky Harinarayan on growing cricket in the USA, AI-driven teams and the Olympic boost India continued to press for a goal and came close in the 81st minute when Lallianzuala Chhangte delivered a precise cutback to Chhetri inside the box, but the veteran striker failed to make solid contact. The result is a major blow to India's qualification hopes, especially after their goalless draw against Bangladesh at home in March in their opening qualifier. With only a few matches remaining, the Blue Tigers will now need to regroup quickly to keep their Asian Cup dreams alive.
News18
03-06-2025
- Sport
- News18
IND Vs THA Live Football Streaming For FIFA International Friendly Match: How To Watch IND Vs THA Coverage On TV And Online
Last Updated: Check out the live streaming details for India vs Thailand FIFA International Friendly to be played at the Thammasat Stadium in Rangsit. Thammasat Stadium in Rangsit Live Football Streaming For the FIFA International Friendly Match: The Indian national football team take on Thailand in a FIFA International friendly match on Wednesday, June 4, at the Thammasat Stadium in Rangsit. The Blue Tigers travel to Thailand after finishing off an extensive domestic training session. The upcoming face-off provides them a great opportunity to prepare for the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifier against Hong Kong later this month. While ranked 127th in the world, India has been on a gradual rise under experienced coach Manolo Marquez, enjoying a five-game unbeaten streak. But the wins haven't been easy to come by. The Blue Tigers' previous match was a goalless draw against Bangladesh. Their most recent victory – a 3-0 triumph over Maldives in March – came after 489 days. Thailand have also faced a mixed bag of results this year despite boasting of a strong squad on paper. The War Elephants enjoyed a 2-0 win over Afghanistan in a friendly before going on to beat Sri Lanka 1-0 in their last outing. But the conclusion of their ASEAN Championship campaign would continue to sting Thailand players as they lost both the finals to Vietnam after enjoying a fantastic run in the previous stages of the competition. What date India vs Thailand FIFA International Friendly match will be played? IND vs THA will be played on June 4, Wednesday. IND vs THA will be played at the Thammasat Stadium in Rangsit. IND vs THA will start at 6:00 PM IST. Which TV channels will broadcast the India vs Thailand FIFA International Friendly match? No telecast will be available for the IND vs THA. How do I watch India vs Thailand FIFA International Friendly live streaming? IND vs THA will be streamed live on the Fancode app and website in India. What are the Predicted Line-ups for India vs Thailand FIFA International Friendly live game? India: Kaith; Bose, Bheke, Thangjam, Jhingan; Wangjam, Ralte, Colaco, Fernandes, Kumam; Chhetri Thailand: Khammai; Dolah, Ballini, Haiprakhon, Kraikruan; Songkrasin, Doloh, Davis, Wonggorn, Panya; Chaided First Published:
