Indian football thread

b@D~HorsiE

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India snr v Ind u-23 going on right now at Delhi
 

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Can you gimme the line ups?

And the score..??

i'll post the score once i reach back home as the website with match details is blocked in my office :\
 

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the game was played with two breaks in between, 30 minutes each ... the seniors won the game 1 - 0
 

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Indian Football: This One Is For The Ladies

my article on Indian women's football team

Friday, July 15th, 2011 | Posted by Sachin Madaan
Indian Football: This One Is For The Ladies

In a nation obsessed with cricket, it comes as no surprise that football has been relegated to the status of a ‘poor cousin’ of the gentlemen’s game. Although the formation of the i-league has resulted in investors pumping in much-needed money into the clubs, the scenario of men’s football has improved considerably. The viewer ship of the men’s game has gone up by ten folds with AIFF selling the broadcasting rights of the i-league to major sports network.
Unfortunately, the same cannot be said about the condition of women’s football in our country. The fact that our national women’s team did not get to play even a single international match for more than three years (October 2007- November 2010) is clear evidence of the appalling situation women’s football faces in our nation.
With the Women’s World Cup going on at full swing in Germany, this seems like an ideal time to throw some light on the step-brotherly treatment being dished out at the Indian Women’s football team, by their parent body AIFF.
It all went downhill after a promising start….
Indian women’s football is a living example of the Murphy’s Law. The seed of women’s football in India was planted almost forty years ago in the 1970s. From 1975 till 1991, the administration of the game was in the hands of the Women’s Football Federation of India (WFFI). But unlike the men’s game, they failed to spread the sport to different parts of the country.
In spite of the lack of popularity for their game, the ladies came up with some impressive performances at the continental level in the late 70s and early 80s. They shocked the entire football fraternity by finishing on the podium of the AFC Asian Women’s Championship from 1979 till 1985 in three back-to-back editions; something which even their male counterparts have failed to achieve.
India hosted the ’79 edition of the Asian Women Championships in Calicut, where they fielded two teams along with four other national teams. India A went on to reach the finals but lost to Mulan Taipei.

With the arrival of 80s, the era of television had begun which would go on to change the coverage of world events in the years to come. It was at this time that Kapil Dev lifted the cricket world cup much to the surprise of the entire country and cricket became the darling sport of our nation. After the world cup win, BCCI did an unparalleled promotion of the game and the ratings of cricket matches sky rocketed through the roof, leaving behind football in the lurch.
With cricket enjoying an all-time high, football viewer ship plummeted to an all-time low. WFFI’s marketing of the game was negligible in comparison to the BCCI. In fact, saying that the state of women’s football at that time was shambolic would not be an understatement.
The mismanagement of the football administration prevailed. And despite their impressive display at the Asian level, women’s football in India went into the state of gloom by the end of the eighties.
Women’s football was in the state of despair and urgently needed financial and moral support if it wanted to see the turn of the century. This led AIFF to intervene as they took over the administration of women’s football in their own hands from the WFFI in 1991.
Time and again, the AIFF officials stated that lifting the standard of women’s football to the level of their Asian counterparts was their chief aim but they never backed up their words with actions. AIFF was treating women’s football as an extra burden was a fact which was hidden from no one but it became evident when they failed to sponsor the team’s first foreign trip in 1997 to Germany before the Asian Championships. Eventually, the trip was made possibly with the help of the German Football Association and NRI’s living in Germany.
Although, it was only a 12-day tour, it worked like a charm for the morale of the entire squad. After this tour, Indian team performed exceptionally well in Asian Women Championships of ’97 which was also a World Cup qualifying event. They defeated Guam and Hong Kong with an impressive score line of 10-0 and 3-0 respectively, but lost to Japan 0-1. Due to an inferior goal difference India failed to qualify for the semi-finals (they eventually finished fifth) and with that, they lost a golden chance to finish in the top three – which would have secured a place for them in the 1999 World Cup.
Despite missing out on a place in the World Cup, a twelve-day camp showcased that if the girls are provided with world class facilities at home, they too have the talent within them to challenge even the powerhouses of the football world. Also, this was the closest any football team from India (both men and women) had come to qualifying for the world cup since 1950.
The same pattern continued before the 1998 Asiad as the team was given just one warm up match before the Asian Games kicked off in Bangkok and that too against the Bengal U-16 boy’s team. The women’s team went on to concede thirty six goals in three group matches of the Asian Games which caused WFFI to lock horns with the AIFF due to their lack of interest in the national women’s team.
But the lowest point in their history came in November 2009 when FIFA de-listed the women’s team from FIFA rankings as the girls had not played any international match for over 18 months. The team was listed back in the FIFA rankings at the end of 2010. Sadly though, even after remaining in existence for more than thirty five years, the condition of women’s football has only gone down over the years; chiefly due to the poor management skills and lack of interest of their parent body.
Glimmer of Hope
Seeing that not even iota of progress was being made by the AIFF, Kolkata giants East Bengal and Mohun Bagan jumped into the fray and started India’s first ever Women’s football clubs in 2000-01. Kolkata was the first state to come up with the first women’s football league – “The Calcutta Women’s League” in 1993. Although, like the men’s game, early inroads into the female football were made by Bengal, soon Manipur took over. The women from the north-eastern state went on to win the Senior Women’s National football Championship a record thirteen times out of nineteen.
The bulk of the national squad comprises of players from Manipur, Orissa and Bengal. Some of the legends of Indian women football have played for these three states. Manipur’s Oniam Bembem Devi is the first name (if any) that comes into the mind when one thinks of women football players in India. The veteran midfielder started her international career at an early age of 15 and till date, has scored more than 50 international goals for the country. The “pin up lady of Indian football” continues to remain an inspiration for millions of girls throughout the length and breadth of the country.
Couple of other names who deserve a mention here are Sujata Kar and Alpana Sil, who in February 2000 became the first Indian women players to sign for an international club when they signed a three-month trial contract with German club TSV Crailsheim. Unfortunately, the contract couldn’t be extended as problems occurred in their international transfer clearance.

The Indian women have shown on numerous occasions that they can reach the pinnacle of the sport if they are provided with the correct grooming. Players like Bemem Devi, Jaanki Kotecha and Chitra Gangadharan have all achieved unparalleled success in the game, against all odds.
We can no longer let the hues and cries of these women go unnoticed. The tour of Germany is an example that if given proper guidance and infrastructure, sky is the limit for our eves. Will the AIFF take notice of this fact or will they turn a blind eye to it, like they have been doing since the last two decades is yet to be seen.
The girls have shown time and again that the talent is there, it’s high time that the AIFF sits up and takes notice of them.

source-:http://www.thehardtackle.com/2011/indian-football-womens-football-in-india/
 

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ind v uae 2nd leg of WC qualifier tomorrow in delhi
 

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ind v uae 2nd leg

my article.. preview of the 2nd leg :) please leave ur beloved european clubs for these 90 minutes and lets all bleed blue ... \m/
Wednesday, July 27th, 2011 | Posted by Sachin Madaan
INDIA v UAE : World Cup Qualifiers – 2nd Leg Preview

INDIA
v
UAE
Ambedkar Stadium, New Delhi, India
28th July, 2011 – 19:00 Hrs
Live on Ten Actions
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After getting robbed by the match official during their first leg encounter, India would be looking to go all out against their West Asian opponents in the deciding 2nd leg of the 2014 World Cup qualifier against United Arab Emirates in their own backyard at fortress Ambedkar, New Delhi tomorrow evening.
The Qatari match referee – Banjar Al Dosari, hogged the limelight for all the wrong reasons during the away leg encounter at the Sheikh Khalifa International Stadium last Saturday. Had it not been for Dosari’s harsh decisions early in the match, the outcome could have been very much different in all probability.
Although, India is totally a different team in home conditions, the horrendous decisions by the officials have given a huge cushion to the UAE team ahead of this second leg encounter.
Team News and Tactical Brief:
India
The harsh sending offs of Debarata Roy and Subrata Pal in quick succession early in the first half left a bitter taste in the mouths of the Indians football fans. However the grit and determination shown by Colaco’s men in spite of going down by two goals and two men, within the first twenty five minutes, was commendable. Indian goal was bombarded with shots from all directions and the fact that they conceded just a single goal from open play throughout the match says volumes about the character team India possesses. A Herculean task is needed in order to overcome the three goal advantage which the visitors enjoy at present, but the display of the men in blue – against all odds, during the first leg has provided the Indian fans with a glimmer of hope.
It was pleasant to see the Indian team focusing more on a possession based style of football rather than the long ball technique which was on display during Bob Houghton’s regime. Expect them to display a similar style of play in front of their home crowd as India would look to score early in the match in order to strike terror in the defensive ranks of UAE.
There is a strong belief in the Indian camp that they can come up with an upset win. It was made evident by the Indian coach when the Goan at the helm of team India went on to say “If we can get an early goal, the deficit can be overturned”.
It’s a fact that UAE defensive line has a big physical advantage over the Indian forward lineup. Hence real goal scoring opportunities will be few and far between. A a lot will depend on how many chances Mehtab Hussain-led Indian midfield is able to create and how many of those Chhetri and Jeje would be able to convert.
India will have to be extra careful at the back as letting in even a single goal on Thursday will most certainly diminish their already bleak chances of sailing through to the next round.
Armando Colaco is most likely go in with an attacking mid field and might end up dropping Climax Lawrence after the dismal performance by the veteran midfielder in the away tie. Jewel Raja Sheikh, who played his part as a late second second half substitute in the last game may be drafted in to partner Mehtab at the center of the park. Syed Rahim Nabi, who played the role of make-shift full back after Debabrata Roy was sent-off, would ply his trade at the same position while Clifford Miranda might get the nod to start on the left wing. Talented Steven Dias will partner Miranda on the opposite wing and his dead ball ability would prove to be an added advantage for the home side. Dias is going through a lean spell of form of-late and he would have to pull up his socks at the Ambedkar stadium to help India overcome the UAE hurdle.
The biggest worry for team India will be at the defense line-up which will miss the services of full back Debabrata Roy and goalkeeper Subrata Paul. Especially the absence of star goalkeeper Subrata Paul will be a huge loss, but after putting on a heroic display on his international debut, Salgaocar ‘keeper – Karanjit Singh, provided some much needed assurance to his coach.
UAE
The West Asian team walks into this match as firm favorites, with a comfortable three goals cushion over the hosts and unless something drastic happens one cannot see them crashing out of this World Cup campaign. However the fact that India defeated a much fancied opponent Qatar, just a little more than a weak back will be playing on the mind of their Slovenian coach Srečko Katanec; so do not expect the Arabic nation to be complacent when they step on the field on Thursday.
Traditionally they start with a 4-4-1-1 formation but this time around the visitors might play with an altogether defensive mind-set knowing that India will come hard at them since the blue tigers have got nothing to lose during the second leg. Former Sampdoria player- Katanec, might ploy counter attacking style of play as even a single goal will virtually decide the outcome of the entire qualifying round.
The youngsters Abdulrahman and Ismail Al Hammadi impressed at their home soil but this would prove to be the acid test for them with more than twenty five thousand fans breathing down their necks.
What will provide an extra kick to their players is a small fact that since 2001, they have never managed to defeat India in India. Ending this run of their poor shows in India is bound to ignite some extra fire in the belly of the UAE players.
TheHardTackle Player to watch out for
Sunil Chhetri (India)
The performance of the Delhi born striker could very well be the difference between a comprehensive victory or yet another early exit. Indian team is left with a mountain to climb in front of them and the absence of Bhutia adds to the pressure on Chhetri to perform at his best.

He has to fly, if India has to progress

He, along with shot-stopper Karanjit, were the heroes from the first leg for India. Playing in front of his home crowd has always brought out the best in him but never has India needed him more than this time around. Jeje – his partner up front is quite inexperienced and Sunil has to take up the mentor’s role to guide the young but talented Mizo striker. The task of making India qualify for the next stage depends heavily on Chhetri and after seeing the hunger in his eyes during the first leg, rest assure that he is up for it.
TheHardTackle’s Prediction
India 2-1 UAE
The Indian side has enjoyed its fair share of highs and lows in the past week which saw them picking up sensational victory over Qatar and following it up with a tragic World Cup qualifier in UAE.
Now the men in blue move to New Delhi. Ambedkar Stadium has proved to be a happy hunting ground for the hosts in the past. Indian team has got their tasks cut out but they can draw inspiration from the fact that it was at this vary same venue that they defeated Tajikistan in 2008. India is expected to score a couple of times but overcoming the three goal deficit looks remotely possible.
Although, TheHardTackle gives this match to India by two goals to one, UAE is expected to walk a step closer to qualifying for Brazil with an aggregate of four goals to two.

source link:http://www.thehardtackle.com/2011/india-v-uae-world-cup-qualifiers-2nd-leg-preview/
 

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Weifang Cup – India U-19: Group Stage Review And Semi Final Preview

August 3rd, 2011 | Posted by Sachin Madaan | Edit
Weifang Cup – India U-19: Group Stage Review And Semi Final Preview

The Indian U-19 team reached the semi-finals of the ongoing Weifang Cup in Shandong, China in spite of losing to FC Benfica in their last group match this afternoon. The Indian colts will now take on the youth team of the Mexican club FC Chivas, who topped group A after thumping U-19 Villareal CF team by three goals to nil.
With a win and a draw, the Indian side managed to finish at the second position in group B and Thehardtackle reviews their performance in the group stage.
1. FC Shandong 2-2 India (U-19)
The young Indian boys face a tough opening encounter against the hosts FC Shandong. The Indian colts, coached by Colm Toal, showed a lot of grit and determination after they managed to hold the Chinese U-19 Academy Champions to a draw in spite of going two goals down. Holicharan Narzary, who currently plays for the Indian Arrows and is a product of TFA, showcased exactly why he is considered the future of Indian football after he scored the opener for the Indian side which led to their revival in the match. The comeback was complete after Sumit Passi scored in the second half doing full justice to the faith Toal had shown in him. This helped the blue tigers to salvage at least a point from their first group clash.
2. India (U-19) 4-3 FC Adelaide
In the second group match against the Aussie club the Indian colts picked up their first victory of the tournament. The match of two halves saw India pull off a dream comeback, winning it by 4 goals to 3, after they were initially down by one goal to three.
The enormity of the victory can be made from the fact that five of the eleven players fielded by the Adelaide side were a part of the Australian U-19 World Cup squad.
Stefan Mauk took the lead for Adelaide FC as Indian defence had no answer for his pile driver from a long range. Shortly afterwards, Jordon Kallios added the second one for the boys from down under. Sixteen year-old Goa boy Brandon Fernandes, got one back for India from 6 yards after Malswamfela was brought down in the box by the Australian defenders. The joy of the Indian side was short lived as Kallios went on to score his second and his team’s third, minutes from halftime which shifted the balance of the match back in the favour of Adelaide FC.
The half time team talk seemed to have done wonders for the moral of the blue tigers as they went on to dominate the proceedings as soon as the second half kicked off.
Narzary scored for the South Asians at the stroke of an hour and minutes later West Bengal’s Prabir Das restored the parity as the Indian team crawled their way back into the match. Rajinder Kumar proved to be the golden boy for the Indian side as his goal in injury time sealed a famous win for the U-19 team, resulting into a joyous Indian squad.

3. FC Benfica 2-0 India U-19

There were no more comebacks in store for the Indian team as Toal’s boys went down by two goals to nil against the strongest side in the tournament S.L. Benfica. The Indian colts didn’t go down meekly after conceding two goals and gave the youth team of the European giants a stiff competition, but were unable to break the backline of the Portugal side.
—————————
SEMI-FINAL
Preview
INDIA (U-19)
v/s
FC GUADALAJARA CHIVAS
Date: 4th August, 2011
Time: 13:30 IST
Venue: Olpmpic Stadium, Shandong, China

After an impressive performance in the group stages, India has made it to the semi finals of the competition and will now take on the Mexican Side - FC Chivas – who finished at pole position in group A. The Mexican side which boasts of yielding players like Manchester United star Javier Hernandez are favourites by a long shot but after seeing the attitude of the Indian boys, it would be a huge mistake on their part if they decide to take the Indian team lightly. Indian defenders will have their task cut out against an all-attacking Mexican side especially since the defence has been the weak link for India in the group stages and has always resulted in India conceding the early goals. Meanwhile, expect Toal to go in with his tried and tested three-men midfield of Fernandes, Prabir Das and Haldar. Holicharan, Malswamfela along with Sumit Passi will form the attacking line for the Indians.
TheHardTackle’s prediction:
India (U-19) 1-3 FC Chivas

Unfortunately, not many would have given a chance to this Indian side to reach the last four before the tournament started. FC Chivas should expect a tough competition from the Indian outfit but THT predicts Chivas to come out with a comfortable win against the Indian side and cruise into the final scheduled on the 6th of August.

source-: http://www.thehardtackle.com/2011/weifang-cup-india-u-19-group-stage-review-and-semi-final-preview/
 

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Indian Football: Profiling The Future – Malsawmfela

Thursday, August 18th, 2011 | Posted by Sachin Madaan
Player Profile
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Name: MALSAWMFELA
Born – 09.03.1993
Position – Striker
Current Club – Pailan Arrows
Represented India At – U14, U15, U16,U-19,U-23

-
In the fifth episode of “Indian Football – Profiling The future” series, TheHardTackle sheds light on the career of a Mizo prodigy Malsawmfela, who has represented India at almost all levels in the youth circuit. Born in the eastern city of Aizawl in Mizoram, Malsawmfela came into prominence during his time with the U-16 national team under Colin Joseph Toal in 2008. This Manchester United supporter, is a product of Mohun Bagan Football Academy, but began his club career with the Goan club Salgoacar SC, although he made his I-League début last season with the Pailan Arrows (formerly Indian Arrows).
Under 16 days
Tour of USA (July’2008)

With their eyes firmly set on the AFC U-16 Championship, the Indian colts undertook a two month-long tour of USA and England which would give Malsawmfela an ideal platform to showcase his talent and nor did the striker disappoint.
The tour of USA for young Indian brigade began in July’08 and which saw the Indian team take on seven local sides from Charleston in West Virginia. The Indian side totally outclassed the US clubs as they ended the tour by emerging victorious in six out of the seven tour games. The Indian colts were at their aggressive best as they went on to score a mind numbing forty-six goals on the tour with an average of more than seven goals per game and with Malsawmfela leading from the front with a tally of sixteen goals throughout the twenty-five days campaign. This tour forced the Indian football fraternity to sit up and take notice of this – then fifteen year old prodigy.
Tour of England (September’2008)
Malsawmfela continued on with his impressive display during the team’s England’s tour in the month of September, where they took on the youth teams of English powerhouses Everton and Manchester United respectively.

While trailing by a goal in their first match against Everton, Malsawmfela equalized for the Indian team in the second half to give a glimmer of hope for the tourists a day after his 15th birthday. Everton eventually went on to score their second goal which resulted in a narrow loss for the Indian boys.
Back home, Malsawmfela was starting to catch the eye of major I-League clubs but it was his performance against the youth team of his beloved club Manchester United which established him as the future of Indian football.
On 9th September, the Indian team took on the U-16 Manchester United team in their last tour match and it was yet again Malsawmfela, who stepped up to the challenge. He did not let the situation to get the better of him, and gave the Indian team the lead against the run of play in the fifth minute much to the shock of the hosts. United got back in the game with two goals in the first period but the young Indian forward brought his team back in the match with his and team’s second goal in the early part of the second half. The match finished with a scoreline of 3-3 and the striker was highly praised by his coach for putting up an excellent performance throughout the tour of England.
I- League comes calling
Salgaocar SC quickly gauged the potential of this Mizo kid and after seeing his more than impressive performances on all the international tours, the Goan club wasted no time in taking him under their wings. Fela, was signed by Salgaocar’s then American coach, Tim Hankinson. He started practicing with the main squad in the 2009-10 season but he never got an opportunity to feature for them in the I-League. Although, he did feature for the Goa based club in the Federation cup.
With an eye of 2018 World Cup, the AIFF started an ambitious project by forming a club (AIFF XI) consisting of promising Indian U-19 players at the beginning of last season of the I-League. Fela, was selected as a striker in this new club and had to shift from Goa to Delhi.
The Mizo striker had an auspicious start to his AIFF XI career, as he went on to score in the club’s debut match in the Federation cup against JCT which eventually gave them their first victory as well.
He impressed Arrows coach- Bulpin from the very first day and started making regular starts for the capital based club. At this time he also got to feature in the 2010 Asian games after he was named in U-23 squad which represented India in the tournament.
Malsawmfela, went to score his first goal for the Arrows in the I-League in their sixth match of the season against Hindustan Aeronautics. Bulpin’s boys eventually won the match by two goals to one. Jeje outclassed his fellow striker in the first season on Indian Arrows but on several occasions Fela managed to showcase glimpses of talent which he possesses in his kitty. He finished the season with three goals in the I- League and one goal in the Federation cup for the Indian Arrows.
In February, he was picked in the U-23 squad to play the pre Olympic qualifier against Myanmar and ended up scoring the match winning goal forty minutes into the first leg. Fela also featured in the 2nd leg but surprisingly got robbed of his place in the second round of the Olympic qualifier against Qatar, which India eventually lost.
In August, he made it to the U-19 squad which featured in the Weifang Cup, but couldn’t manage to score throughout the tournament.
Five Interesting Facts About Malsawmfela:
1. On U-16 team’s tour of USA in 2008, the Mizo striker finished with three hat-tricks to his name. He netted four goals – the most by any player in a single match, in Indian team’s encounter against West Virginia Olympic Development team.
2. The same year on team’s England tour, he scored three of team India’s four goals and was the only player to score against both Everton and Manchester United youth teams.
2. He has scored in his début appearance for both Indian Arrows as well as Indian U-23 national team.
3. He considers former Manchester United’s midfielder Paul Scholes as his hero.
4. Malsawmfela enjoys eating rice and pork; also he is a self confessed movie buff.
The squad for Pailan Arrows for the upcoming season has been announced and Fela has been named in the squad for second time running. With the return of Jeje to Pune FC, the pressure on Malsawmfela has increased ten folds. Whether one talks about U-16, U-23 or club football there is no denying that the kid has always had an exceptional start, its only the consistency factor in his game which has let him down. But he is still in his teens with age on his side.; and he is already knocking on the doors of senior team. One hopes his second year with Arrows would help him in improving the consistency level of his game, which will ultimately make him a lethal force to reckon with, in the future.
original link-:http://www.thehardtackle.com/2011/indian-football-profiling-the-future-malsawmfela/
 

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Thr is more to WB then just Mohun Bagan and East Bengal

Friday, September 9th, 2011 | Posted by Sachin Madaan

Prayag United SC: Team Analysis and Season Preview 2011-12

Ever since the 2010-11 season of I- League got over, Prayag United (formerly Chirag United) has had an eventful couple of months. The Kolkata-based club fell out with their sponsors of over four years – Chirag Computers (a well known brand of RP Infosystems Ltd.). Luckily for them, in Kolkata based Prayag Group of Industries, they found a new sponsor in a very short span of time. A six-year deal was penned between the two parties and in early August, United Sports Club was rechristened as “Prayag United” much to the relief of the club faithfuls.
Former India Under-16 assistant coach Sanjoy Sen – an AFC “A” license holder – was appointed as the head coach of the Kolkata-based club. Last season he looked after their managerial role when Subrata Bhattacharya, their technical director was not keeping well. Sanjoy Sen has been officially announced the head coach of the squad. He is an astute tactician, something which he has showcased time and again during his days as a deputy to Colm Toal in the Indian youth sector and by leading Prayag United to their maiden triumph in the Durand Cup last season.


The departure of their long standing sponsor days after the end of the last season had sent the club and its fans in a tizzy, but the arrival of new local sponsor went a long way in restoring the faith of their fans in the club and its management. Surprisingly amidst all the turmoil, the club was able to retain bulk of their squad, which helped them to finish at the eighth position in the league last season. In spite of not having a budget to match the likes of East Bengal or Mohun Bagan, Prayag United has managed to come up with a fairly strong squad for the upcoming season. A top six finish in the I-League is well within their reach if they play to their full potential.
Along with these signings, quite a few youngsters have made the cut to the senior squad from their U-19 team. TheHardTackle presents an analysis on how the club would be shaping up for the upcoming football season.

Transfers for the season 2011-12


ARRIVALS POSITION FROM

James Lukram Singh Midfielder Salgaocar SC
Yakubu Yusif Striker Salgaocar SC
Deepak Kumar Mondal Defender Mohun Bagan AC
Jayanta Sen Midfielder Mohun Bagan AC
Bello Razaq Defender Viva Kerala
Kayne Vincent Striker Churchill Brothers SC
Jagroop Singh Goal Keeper Indian Arrows
Anupam Sarkar Defender Aryans Club
Chinta Chandrashekar Rao Defender Salgaocar SC
Tanmoy Ghosh Defender Eastern Railway
Snehasis Dutta Midfielder Aryans Club
Crispin Chetri Midfielder Tollygunjee AG
Gaur Sankar Dutta Defender Railways FC

DEPARTURES POSITION TO

Jerry Zirsanga Midfielder Churchill Brothers SC
Nascimento Silveira Midfielder Churchill Brothers SC
Melwyn Rodrigues Defender Churchill Brothers SC
Elijah Obagbemiro Junior Striker Salgaocar SC
Sunil Chhetri Striker Mohun Bagan AC
Branco Vincent Cardozo Striker East Bengal
Asif K Midfielder Viva Kerala
Munna Mallick Striker Techno Aryan Club
S. Santha Kumar Striker Integral Coach Factory

Squad Analysis

Defenders: Arnab Mondal, Justin Stephen, Belo Razaq, Deepak Mondal, Anupam Sarkar, Sukhen Dey, Subhasis Roy Chowdhury, Bapi Saha, Tanmoy Ghosh, Chinta Chandrasheakar Rao, Gour Sankar Dutta
A dismal and below power performance by their back-line in the 2010-11 season left no doubts in the mind of the support stuff that serious reinforcements were required in their defensive department. Sen has signed up as many as six new defenders in the transfer market including some big names like Deepak Mondal and Bello Razaq. Mondal, who was the 2002 AIFF player of the year will be fully motivated as he will have a point to prove, when he steps on the field for Prayag United. He was sidelined from the national team after the Asia Cup in January and is now aiming for a good season at the club level in order to get back into the national team. He can play as a center back or as a fullback which will provide a lot of options for Sanjoy.
Partnering him in the back-line will be the experienced Nigerian Bello Razaq, who joined the club from Chirag United Club Kerela and Arnab Mondal, who after playing his first game in Indian colors during the pre-Olympic qualifier against Qatar looks all pumped up. The left-back place is expected to be filled by either Tanmoy Ghosh, who arrived from Eastern Railways or Chandrashekar Rao – the club’s latest signing from the defending champions Salgaocar SC.
THT Verdict: Defence was the weakest link of Prayag United in the season gone by. The arrival experienced names in the back-line is expected to provide some much needed assurity to the team. Some major signings in the defensive department has surely helped them in taking care of their Achilles heel for the time being at least.
Midfielders: Denson Devdas, Lalkamal Bhowmick (c), Sankar Sil, Md. Rafique, Somick Chakraborty, Shylo Malswm Tlunga, Snehasis Dutta, Gouranga Biswas, James Sing, Crispin Chetri, Jayanta Sen
In the midfield, the Kolkata based unit has made some notable signings as well – Lukram James Singh and Jayanta Sen. James who had a forgetful season with the defending champions Salgaocar SC after joining them in January would be raring to go like Deepak Mondal, as he also wants to win back his place in the national team.
Jayanta Sen’s experience in midfield will play a huge advantage as well. Accompanying them in the middle of the pitch will be Lalkamal who a finally got a call up from the national team in the month of June ahead of team’s World Cup qualifier. Lalkamal has been named the club’s new captain as he takes over from defender Arnab Mondal.
THT Verdict: Midfield could prove to be their weakest link this season. There midfielders will have to play out of their skin if they want to put up a fight against some of the big boys of the league. Letting go of Asif, Jerry and Silveira could come back to haunt them as the season goes by.
Forwards: Yusif Yakubu , Kayne Vincent, F. Liandala, Sk. Sabir Ali, Josimar, Sankar Oroan
This is one area where the club made some brave signings. Arrival of Sunil Chettri last season to Prayag United had turned quite a few heads. The Arjuna Awardee ultimately left the club after an year and went to Mohun Bagan but not before the club made yet another move which sent shock waves in the football circuit throughout the nation when they signed the Ghanian Yusif Yakubu – the highest goal scorer in the history of I-League.
He might be in his 35th year but last year with Salgaocar he showcased once again why he is still considered by his opponents as one of the most feared striker in the league. He not only scored 15 goals for the Goan club on the way to the league victory but also played an instrumental role in setting up numerous goals for his teammates.
The departure of Junior forced the club to sign Melbourne Knights striker Kanye Vincent. He has played for the New Zealand’s U-20 team in the past and has featured with Churchill Brothers SC and Mumbai FC in the the I-league as well.
THT Verdict: In Yakubu, Josimar and now Vincent, Prayag United possesses one of the most potent attacks in the I-league. If they are able to gel well with their midfield then this star-studded frontline can create havoc. Yes, Yakubu might be in his mid 30’s but he is showing no signs of slowing down. His last season’s performance tells us that like wine, he is only getting better with age.
Key targets:
1) I- league: What amazes people the most is their eighth position on the table last season after only picking up five wins in twenty six matches. This time around they have signed some very big names in defence as well as in the forward line. With the likes of players like Yakubu, Deepak Mondal, Josimar, Razaq,Kanye, TheHardTackle predicts Prayag United to finish in the top six for the season 2011-12. Their away form will be a cause of concern for them.
2)Federation Cup: In the 33rd edition of the Federation Cup, Prayag United SC has been drawn in group D against Air Indian FC, Chirag United Club Kerela and Sporting Club de Goa. Their coach Sanjoy Sen feels that this edition of Federation Cup will be wide open as this time around the teams were divided in the pot on the basic of region and not on last season’s I-League ranking which could work for his team’s benefit. TheHardTackle predicts the Kolkata based club to sail through to the semi finals of the competition but a birth in the final looks highly unlikely.
3) Durand Cup: The 124th edition of Durand Cup will kick off in the first week of October. Prayag United who are the defending champions are expected to go all out in the competition unlike Mohun Bagan who have decided to skip the event. Last season Prayag United won their maiden Durand Cup – the oldest football tournament in Asia and this time around they walk into the tournament as one of the favorites. After all the reinforcements that have been made, anything less than a win will disappoint the fans as well as the management.
4) Kolkata Football League: As a result of the inclusion of the new 40 match rule, Sen is expected to field in few U-19 academy players in his team in the local league. Performing well in this league is a matter of pride for all the clubs involved but don’t expect the club to use players like Yukubu and Mondal in the KFL.



parent link:http://www.thehardtackle.com/2011/prayag-united-sc-team-analysis-and-season-preview-2011-12/
 

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124th Durand Cup: A Tournament Preview

Tuesday, October 4th, 2011 | Posted by Sachin Madaan

The knockout round for the 124th edition of the Durand Cup began on 24th of September with a total of 17 teams slugging it out for the two available qualifier spots in the quarter finals of the tournament.
Durand Football Tournament Society (DFTS) has decided to triple their overall budget for this season to 1.54 crore, with the winners now receiving Rs. 20 lakh instead of the previous Rs. 5 lakh prize-money. However, this did not deter some of the major powerhouses of Indian football like Dempo, Mohun Bagan and East Bengal from withdrawing their teams from the prestigious tournament. Couple of days back Mumbai FC and HAL Bangalore who were placed in group II and IV respectively also joined the bandwagon and withdrew from the quarter final stage leaving the organizers in a fix. Replacing them in the quarter finals will be two extremely popular teams Mohammedan Sporting in group IV and Shillong Lajong in group II.
The quarter finals will have four groups with three teams each with the winner of each group moving onto the semi finals which is to be played on October 12th leading up to the final on the 15th of the month. TheHardTackle here brings you the quarter final stage preview of the oldest tournament in Asia.
Will the defending champions be able to defend their crown?
-
Group I (Salgoacar SC, Prayag United, BSF)
-
After completing a rare double of winning the League and then the Federation Cup, Bencharifa’s men will be raring to lift their third trophy in five months. With Prayag United in the mix, it will not be a walk in the park for the national champions and one can always expect few surprises from BSF, who have performed quite exceptionally under their 1988 Durand Cup winner coach Avtar Singh. Although the Goan outfit are tipped to be the favorites to lift the Durand Cup they cannot take either of the sides lightly – especially Prayag United who are the defending champions.
Salgoacar SC were stretched to the last minute by Shillong Lajong in the Fed Cup semi final but comfortably defeated the mighty East Bengal in the finals to lift the Federation Cup after a long wait for 14 years. The Goan side is riding high on the form of Edeh Chidi who has been in the thick of action for them. Winner of Salgoacar v/s Prayag United is expected to sail into the semi finals but expect the rejuvenated and rechristened Prayag to give Bencharifa’s side a run for their money.
The defending champions Prayag United find themselves in a tight spot with the presence of Salgaocar in their group. Sanjay Sen’s outfit will have to rely heavily on their foreign strikers Joshimar da Silva Martins and Yusif Yakubu along with Kayne Vincent – who will most probably be used s a substitute. Prayag has a potent strike force in these three players but it looks highly unlikely that they will be able to make inroads into the water tight backline of Salgaocar SC.
THT Match of the Group
SalgaocarSC v/s Prayag United
The Kolkata side might push the Goan outfit to their limits but THT predicts Salgaocar SC to walk out of this match will full three points.
THT Group Winner: Salgaocar SC
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Group II (Shillong Lajong, United Sikkim FC, IAF)
-
Indian Air Force’s narrow 1-0 victory over rivals CRPF confirmed their place in Group B of the quarter finals where they join debutant United Sikkim FC and Federation Cup semi finalist Shillong Lajong FC.
IAF would be hoping to improve upon their last season’s performance when they reached the quarter finals before crumbling against Pune FC and the eventual champions Prayag United. A strong back-line comprising of R.S. Raj, TV Sujith and Rahmat Ali has been the lifeline of the IAF in the knockout stages and these three will have to play out of their skin if the club wants to progress onto the next stage. The onus of scoring lies on the shoulders of G.S Sandhu, who has been their leading scorer in the initial stages of the tournament and he would be hoping to repeat his knockout stage performances in the group stage as well.

Playing for a different cause all together
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Sikkim was recently rocked by a devastating earthquake and Bhutia’s Sikkim United football club was at the forefront of setting up major relief camps in the northeast region. In their maiden appearance in the Durand Cup they have nothing to lose as not many have pinned up any expectations on them but when the Sikkimese outfit steps on the pitch in the quarters they will be playing for the people of Sikkim more than anything else. The team has progressed steadily under the watchful eye of Stanley Rozario. Presence of Bhutia along with Renedy Singh, Govin Singh and Sushil Kumar who all bring in wealth of experience with them gives the Snow Lions an edge over both Shillong Lajong and IAF.
The last minute loss in the Fed Cup semifinal against Salgoacar SC would have been difficult to forget for Shillong Lajong but that is something that they will have to shrug off quickly come 4th of October. After putting in a gritty performance in the match, the 89th minute strike by Chidi dashed all their hopes of reaching the Federation Cup Final. A defeat like this is bound to deflate any outfit but Pradyum Reddy’s boys should try to pick positives from their Fed Cup outing. Their display against the I-League champions showcases that their squad possesses the quality to rattle even the major heavyweights of Indian football. In Lalchuanmawia, Lyngdoh, Lalramluaha and John D. Menyongar the side from Meghalya boasts of a formidable midfield which can change the course of any match.
THT Match of the Group
United Sikkim FC v/s Shillong Lajong
The match between United Sikkim and Shillong Lajong is most likely to act as the group B decider and TheHardTackle sticks its neck out and predicts Sikkim United to emerge victorious in the clash of two North East outfits.
THT Group Winner : United Sikkim FC
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Group III (Pune FC, Air India, ONGC)
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Group C could prove to be the most exciting group among all due to the absence of any major I-league heavy-eights from it. Each side in the group, on its day, has the pedigree to beat the other – which could throw this group wide open.
After ONGC FC’s relegation from I-League this season, the clouds of disbanding surrounded the club as they were expected to follow the path of JCT but in July the club came out with a statement against any disbanding which came as a relief to their fans. Their performance however in the Federation Cup qualifiers was highly disappointing as they finished at the bottom of the qualifying round of group B. ONGC are not expected to move into the next stage but on their day they can prove to be the party spoilers for the remaining two teams.

Pune FC will hope to make it till last four
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With players like Subrata Pal, Izumi Arata and Jeje Lalpekhlua in their ranks, the side from Pune are the favourites to advance from group C unless Santosh Kashyap’s Air India spring up a surprise in their matches. Air India and Pune FC both finished at third position in their respective groups in the Fed Cup with one win, win loss and one draw to their names. Pune was slotted against teams like Dempo and East Bengal, while the Airmen had comparatively weaker group opponents.

THT Group Winner : Pune FC
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Group IV (Mohammedan Sporting, Churchill Brothers, Army Red)
-
Services Champions Army Red got a direct entry into the quarter finals of the 124th edition of the Durand Cup. They find themselves pitted against the mighty Churchill Brothers from Goa and Mohammedan Sporting from Kolkata. It’s nothing short of a Déjà vu that Army Red finds itself in the same group as the Goan giants Churchill Brothers along with MSC in a repeat of last year’s group stage fixtures. Absence of Churchill’s Nigerian goal-machine Odafa Okolie – who left for Mohun Bagan, will instil some much needed confidence in the Services champions as the Nigerian completely outplayed them last year netting in a hat trick in their group decider.
Initially HAL Bangalore was slated to play in the quarter finals but a last minute cancellation by the club paved way for one of the oldest Indian club – Mohammedan Sporting. In spite of playing in the 2nd division, the Kolkata outfit boasts of arguably the second biggest fan base in the nation, after their city-rivals East Bengal – which was a major factor behind their selection as HAL’s replacement. Coached by Aloke Mukherjee, the Black Panthers have won the Durand cup once way back in 1940. In 1987 MSC won their last major trophy when they lifted the Rovers Cup and would be looking to spring in some surprises in this year’s edition of the Durand Cup. The fate of Mukherjee’s squad will chiefly depend on the striker partnership of their Nigerian striker duo of Felix Chimaokwu and Stanley Okoroigwe.

Will they repeat the heroics of 2009?
-
The 2009 champions and 2010 semi finalists Churchill Brothers should consider themselves lucky as they are placed in a fairly easy group. However, their present form should be a cause of concern for their manager Manuel Gomez. Their performance in the Fed Cup was fluctuating to say the least which saw them pick up a comfortable victory against Shillong Lajong and then losing against the minnows Royal Wahingdoh which would go on to haunt them after they drew against Mohun Bagan, which eventually kicked them out of the competition. Departure of Odafa to Bagan earlier this summer could hamper their chances in the later stages of the tournament but the Goan side should not face any difficulties in making it to the last four.

THT Group Winner : Churchill Brothers SC

url:http://www.thehardtackle.com/2011/124th-durand-cup-a-tournament-preview/
 

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I-League 2011-12: Preview and Predictions – Round 7 Match-day 2

written by me :)

I-League 2011-12: Preview and Predictions – Round 7 Match-day 2






Pailan Arrows
v
Chirag United Club Kerala
Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata
Kickoff: 14:00 IST: Date – 24th November, 2011
***
-
It’s a clash between the teams lying in the bottom half of the table as 13th placed Pailan Arrows takes on the 11th placed Chirag United from Kerala. The young Turks – Arrows, have had a horrendous start to their season and are still on a lookout for their first win of the season. They have conceded two goals per game but their biggest concern is their front line. Shockingly, they have managed to score only twice in total of six matches and last found the back of the net in round three.
They are certainly missing the players from last season and Sukhwinder Singh has a tough challenge lying ahead of him at trying to motivate his deflated outfit. These future stars of India, who don’t have the relegation threat lying over their head, have formed some decent moves in their matches but have simply failed to make them count. Sabeeth will be their best bet if Arrows want to end their dreadful run of 270 minutes of going without a goal in the league.
Pailan Arrows expected line up: Naveen (GK), Rajeev, Gurtej Sr., Maulingkar, Lalrozama, Bijen, Milan, Bikramjit, Jibon, Malsawmfela, Sabeeth.
The Kerala outfit travel to Kolkata under the watchful eye of their manager Pakir Ali and would be hoping to end their dreadful run of five back to back defeats against the young Pailan Arrows. A win against the side who are relinquishing at the bottom of the table and then five successive defeats have severely hurt the morale of Chirag United. All their matches have been closely fought contests and they would be hoping to turn their fortunes against a comparatively weaker side from Kolkata. Isaac Boakye will have to miss the bus for Kolkata as he picked up his second booking against Sporting Clube De Goa over the weekend and Gurjinder Singh is expected to take his place at the back.
Chirag United Club Kerala expected line up: Sharath (GK), Nousad, Jagdeep, Gurjinder Singh, Saleel, Pradeep, Asif, Vineeth, Vignesh, Shernisham, Anil
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TheHardTackle’s Players to Watch Out For:
-
C.S. Sabeeth (Pailan Arrows)
Charles Dzisah (Chirag United Kerala)

TheHardTackle’s Prediction:
-
Pailan Arrows 0-1 Chirag United Club Kerala
-

SALGAOCAR SC
V
CHURCHILL BROTHERS SC
PJN Stadium, Margao
Kickoff: 15:45 IST: Date – 24th November, 2011
***
-
Karim Bencharifa’s side played out a goalless stalemate at YBK in the last round game against Prayag United. The defending champions are rooted to the ninth slot in the table, hovering four points above the relegation zone. Salgaocar now welcome their arch rivals Churchill Brothers to PJN tomorrow in their round seven clash. Chidi Edeh and Ryuji did create some chances against a resilient Prayag side, but were somehow not able to finish the moves with a goal.
Former JCT custodian Karanjit again came to the rescue of the Goan side, as once again it was his penalty save that helped his side clinch an away point. The centre backs Jaspal and Luciano hardly stepped a wrong foot and were looking solid at the back. Moroccan Karim Bencharifa would be hoping that this is the beginning of a spirited fight back by the champions, after a dreadful start to the season, as they welcome an in from Goan Reds.
Salgaocar expected starting lineup: Karanjit Singh (GK), Meitei, Rino Anto, Tomba Singh, Chidi, Sueoka, Biswajit Saha, Anthony, Sabrosa, Rocus Lamare, Francis.
Churchill Brothers secured a nervy victory over Mumbai FC at PJN in the last round, as Gabonese striker Henry Antchouet coolly converted a spot kick to help Goan Reds hoard all three points. Churchill maintained their third spot in the table as they prepare to take on the champions Salgaocar in a Goan derby. Manuel Gomes’ side has regrouped well after the defeat against Mohun Bagan, as Antun Kovacic and Gourmangi showcased a robust performance, as Mumbai FC tried to restore parity.
MP Zakeer is once again expected to orchestrate all the attacks from the middle, assisted by Steven Dias and Lenny on the flanks. Churchill Brothers needs to keep up the pace with sprinting Dempo, as a failure to collect points from matches could see them slip down the table, keeping in mind that Prayag United, Sporting Club de Goa and East Bengal are hot on their heels.
Churchill Brothers expected lineup: Felix (GK), Gourmangi, Antun, Ravanan, Denzil Franco, Steven , MP Zakeer, Lenny, Didika Ralte, Henry, ND Opara.
Both the coaches would be hoping that the match is not threatened by injuries, as some of the crucial players participate in the GFA anniversary match against Zambia on 25th November.
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TheHardTackle’s Players To Watch Out For:
-
Luciano Sabrosa (Salgaocar SC)
ND Opara(Churchill Brothers)
-
TheHardTackle’s Prediction:
-
Salgaocar SC 2 – 1 Churchill Brothers SC
-

Pune FC
v
Air India FC
Balewadi Sports Complex, Pune
Kickoff: 18:30 IST: Date – 24th November, 2011
***
-
Pune FC play host to Mumbai based Air India FC in the last match of the day. Pune FC’s manager Derrick Pereira will have his task cut out since his side has suffered three back to back defeats. Their defense has been found wanting on several occasions especially against some of the big boys of the league. In the last three rounds, they have conceded a mammoth total of eleven goals.
Although Dempo got the better of them in the last round, they did show some positive intent against the league leaders. Jeje has shown a lot of promise and always remains a threat for the oppositions up ahead of the field. The fact that he netted one against Dempo SC will give a lot of confidence going into the game against AirIndia. They will have do a major overhauling of their backline in order to create certain amount of pressure on the pilots. With Subrata Pal out of reckoning for three months and the reserve goalie Shahinlal Meloy nursing an injury, the Red Lizards have roped in Abhra Mondal from East Bengal on loan and he is expected to feature in the starting line-up in this game.
Pune FC expected line up: Abhra Mondal (GK), Costa, Tabia, Chika, Maninder, Douhou, Jeje Lalpekhlua, Subash, Ventkatesh, Baldeep Singh, Izumi Arata.
After starting their campaign with two defeats Air India were again dubbed by the pundits as the team which will have to fight out their skin in order to remain in the top flight. All these predictions were shown the door by the team once they defeated Salgaocar in the third round. They have not faced a defeat in the last four rounds and with ten points, much to the surprise of everyone are sitting pretty on 7th position.
Momentum is on the side of the pilots as they will step on the field tomorrow as firm favorites against Pune FC at the Balewadi stadium. Manjit Singh has been their lynchpin ahead of the field where as their skipper Lamine Tamba has marshaled his troops brilliantly from the back. On form Air India should walk out of this match with three points unless they shot themselves on foot.
Air India expected line-up: Arup Debnath (GK), Omi, Henry, Manandeep, Samson, Soccor, Napolean Singh, Tamba, Manjit, Uttam, Thomte.
-
TheHardTackle’s Players To Watch Out For:
-
Jeje Lalpekhlua (Pune FC)
Manjit Singh(Air India)
-
TheHardTackle’s Prediction:
-
Pune FC 1 – 2 Air India

parernt source:http://www.thehardtackle.com/2011/i-league-2011-12-preview-and-predictions-–-round-7-match-day-2/
 

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i league round 13 preview by me-1

I-League 2011-12 Preview and Predictions – Round 13

Kingfisher East Bengal
V
Air India
Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata
Kickoff: 15:30 IST, 2nd January, 2012
***
-
After the disappointment against Salgaocar SC, East Bengal would be hoping to kick-off the New Year on a high when they host Air India at the Salt Lake stadium in the first I-League match in 2012. The biggest cause of concern for their manager Trevor Morgan would be the unavailability of their star midfielder Mehtab Hossain, after he picked two yellow cards against Salgaocar and now stands suspended for round thirteen. This is bound to put a whole lot of pressure on their captain Sanju Pradhan coming into this match. Ozbey and Sahni are most likely to lead their frontline and they would be desperately hoping to shut the mouth of their critics who have lambasted East Bengal’s attacking department a lot in recent times. Uga Okpara’s return to the starting line-up after serving one match ban will be another comforting factor for Morgan going in to this match.
East Bengal expected line-up: Sandip Nandy (GK), Soumik, Gurwinder, Okpara, Naoba, Vasum, Sushant, Penn, Sanju, Baljit, Tolgey
The Pilots ended their year at the Salt Lake stadium and would be starting the New Year at the same venue also. The only thing they would want to change would be the outcome. Having suffered a cruel defeat from the hands of Mariners after conceding two late goals, Santosh Kashyap’s men would be raring to go out on Monday afternoon and make up for their loss. What makes matter worse for them is the suspension of Alaudeen, Gadkari and last match’s scorer Mohammed Shafi, – for sure they will be dearly missed and their absence would give a huge advantage to East Bengal. Whether they will be able to leapfrog Pune and close in on East Bengal is difficult to predict but one thing is certain, it will be a cracker of a match. With the absence of two prominent strikers, the giant killers of the I-league this season will chiefly depend on the performance of Henry Ezeh against the mighty Red and Gold army of Trevor Morgan.
Air India expected line-up: Pawan Kumar (GK), Tamba, Oken Singh, Omi, Prem Kumar, Napoleon, Thomte, Manandeep, Samson Singh, Henry Ezeh

TheHardTackle’s Men To Watch Out For:
Sanju Pradhan (East Bengal)
Henry Ezeh (Air India)
-
TheHardTackle’s Prediction:
East Bengal 2-1 Air India



-
Dempo SC
V
Prayag United
Fatorda Stadium, Goa
Kickoff: 15:00 IST, 3rd January, 2012
***
-
By managing to pick up two wins in their last two matches, Dempo SC ended 2011 sitting pretty at the top of the table, burying the omen of three successive defeats which seemed to have engulfed them from the beginning of December, also bringing an end to their hundred percent league record. Defeat against Churchill Brothers triggered their mini slump and toppled them from the top the league table for couple of rounds as well but wins against two teams at the bottom half of the table have helped them to regain their top spot.
Their opponents Prayag United had a fantastic start to the season but have gone without a win for four matches now. Defender Sameer Naik is suspended for this tie which could cause a little problem for the league leaders but TheHardTackle still predicts Dempo to walk away with all three points at home against a struggling Prayag United.
Dempo expected line-up: Kattimani (GK), Antao, Dias, Gawli, Rebello , Godwin, Climax, Ranty, Anthony, Clifford, Koko.
A disappointing end to 2011 saw Prayag slip to seventh place on the table with their last win coming almost a month ago against Air India. Prayag have no suspended players going into the match against the leaders. Their slump of form came against the teams placed in the bottom half of the table which will be the biggest cause of concern for the Kolkata based outfit. Yusif Yakubu is the only spark which Prayag have got if they want to make a match out of this fixture. Both teams had a torrid time in the last month of 2011 but with Prayag still struggling to cope up with their form on field this clash against Dempo might have come up at a wrong time for them.
Prayag United expected line up: Abhijit Mondal (GK), Chinta, Bello Rasaq, Arnab Mondal, Deepak, Denson, Francis, Subhash, Gouranga , Joshimar, Yakubu.

TheHardTackle’s Men To Watch Out For:
Ranti Martins (Dempo SC)
Yusif Yakubu (Prayag United FC)
-
TheHardTackle’s Prediction:
Dempo 2-0 Prayag United

-
Pune FC
V
Mohun Bagan
Balewadi Sports Complex, Pune
Kickoff: 15:00 IST, 3rd January, 2012
***
This is a golden opportunity for the side from Pune to close in on their opponents Mohun Bagan. A win here will send across a clear message to the rest of the teams that the Red Lizards mean business this time around and should not be taken lightly by teams sitting at the top. The last time Derrick Pereira’s men suffered a defeat was in round 6 against Dempo SC and since then have had a sublime run in the premier Indian league. Jeje and Keita have been the stand out performers this season and expected them to carry on their form for 2011 in the new year as well. They have lost only one match at home this season which will make the team a whole lot more confident walking into this match against a team as big as Mohun Bagan.
Pune FC expected line-up: Abhra Mondal (GK), Othallo, Costa, Chika, Gurjinder, Srikanth, Jeje, Lester, Douhou, Venky, Keita.
The Mariners went through the month of December without a defeat which lifted them to third place on the table, ahead of their arch rivals East Bengal but their real test would come against the side from Maharashtra since the form of Pune boys have been highly impressive over the past month and a half. The biggest news coming out of Bagan’s camp is that Barreto has picked up an injury and he will not be a part of their squad for the Pune’s game. Also, due to his poor form defender Zeleny has also been left out from the squad. With Sunil Chhetri still on the bench, Bagan might find this a tough away fixture unless Odafe comes up with a brilliant performance on Tuesday afternoon.
Mohun Bagan expected line-up: Sangram Mukherjee(GK), Surkumar, Rakesh, Anwar, Manish Mathani, Jewel, Snehasis, Nabi, Dhanarajan, Asim, Odafa.
-
TheHardTackle’s Men To Watch Out For:
Jeje (Pune FC)
Syed Rahim Nabi (Mohun Bagan AC)
-
TheHardTackle’s Prediction:
Pune FC 1-1 Mohun Bagan


-
Pailan Arrows
V
Churchill Brothers
Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata
Kickoff: 15:00 IST, 4th January, 2012
***
-
The team placed at 2nd from the bottom play hosts to the team which sits second from the top in a match which could turn out to be a pretty one side affair unless Arrows come up with an inspirational performance on Wednesday afternoon. The home side has been far from impressive in their second season in the I-league and have scored only five goals so far this season. Along with last placed HAL Bangalore they have been the only side who have failed to pick up a win this year. The only consolation for them coming into this home game is that they have lost only one out of the seven matches played at Kolkata. Their front line has been lacklustre and one does not expect them to trouble the back four of Churchill Brothers on 4th as well.
Pailan Arrows expected line-up: Naveen Kumar (GK), Rajib, Gurtej Sr., Souvhik, Milan, Gurtej Jr., Abhinava, Lalrozama, Jibon Singh, Holicharan, CS Sabeeth.
Knowing that Dempo face a comparatively tougher challenge against Prayag, Churchill have a golden chance to regain the pole position on the table if Dempo manage to slip up on Tuesday. They lost to Pune FC which allowed Dempo SC to climb back to the top but then came back strongly against Sporting Clube De Goa. Henry and Opara have been phenomenal at the front and expect them to net at least couple against the young outfit from Kolkata. Going by the form of Churchill Bothers expect a goal fest at the Salt Lake stadium.
Churchill Brothers expected line-up: Felix (GK), Naveen, Henri, Beto, Denzil, Ravanan, Lalrindika, Steven, Lenny, Raju, Opara.
-
TheHardTackle’s Men To Watch Out For:
Jibon Singh (Pailan Arrows)
N.D. Opara (Churchill Brothers SC)
-
TheHardTackle’s Prediction:
Pailan Arrows 0-5 Churchill Brothers SC

parent link-http://www.thehardtackle.com/2012/i-league-2011-12-preview-and-predictions-%E2%80%93-round-13/
 

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part 2

MUMBAI FC
V
CHIRAG UNITED KERALA
Balewadi Sports Complex, Pune
Kick off: 18:30 IST : Date- 4th January, 2012
***

Khalid Jamil’s side park themselves at tenth position in the league after a nervy victory over Prayag United in the round 12 game at Balewadi. The Mumbai lads prepare to play their fourth consecutive home match against another side which is desperate to garner some points, Chirag United Kerala. Khalid Jamil will be hoping that his lads conjure up third consecutive win and move further up the table, as they have some difficult away games in consequent rounds. Nigerian striker Friday did a splendid job on Wednesday as he scored a brace, and registered himself as our man to watch out for against the Kerala outfit. Captain Peter Siddique picked up a knock in the last match, but he is expected to recover in time for the game. Keegan Pereira is ruled out from this match due to back to back cautions.
Mumbai FC expected line-up: Ishan Debnath (GK), Peter, Chandran, Amiri, D.Singh, Noel, Kuttimani, Dane, Chhangte, Sukore, Abhishek Yadav
Chirag United Kerala succumbed to their second successive loss in the league against Shillong Lajong FC at Guwahati in the last round. A lone spot kick from Christopher Chizoba sunk the side from Kerala, as Isaac bought Jibilee down in the box. Pakir Ali’s side now travels to Balewadi sports complex for their round thirteen fixture in order to restore some points against the name of their team in the table. It will be nothing less than a harsh task for the young local lads as they look to garner only their third victory of the season in Balewadi come Wednesday. Striker Sunday would be our man to watch out for as it was his brace which helped Chirag clinch all three valuable points against Prayag United. Chirag United currently occupy the twelfth spot, and with Arrows slowly but maturely hoarding points, the side from south India are just one point off the dreaded drop zone.
Chirag United expected line-up: Sharath (GK), Sherin, Isaac, Sajesh, Charles, Jamshid, Asif, Sukhwinder, Usman, Anil, Sunday.
-
TheHardTackle’s Men To Watch Out For:
G. Friday (Mumbai FC)
Charles Dzisah (Chirag United Kerala)
-
TheHardTackle’s Prediction:
Mumbai FC 2-0 Chirag United Kerala
-

-
HAL SC
V
SPORTING CLUB de GOA
Bangalore Football Stadium
Kick off: 15:30 IST : Date- 4th January, 2012
***
-
The side from Bengaluru has cemented their place at the bottom of the table as Thyagraj’s side registered their eleventh loss in a row. The last game against Dempo, at the same stadia, saw HAL play with a lot of grit and fighting spirit as they held the former champions and table toppers till most of the game; but Dempo’s quality proved too hot to handle for the Bangalore Greens. HAL should take out the positives from the last encounter and try to build on them as they prepare for another home match, this time against Sporting Club.
HAL expected line-up: Pramod (GK), Adeola , Kenneth, Goutam, Sudesh, Meiti, James, Biju Kumrar, R.C.Prakash, Vinod, Abdulla Hamza.
Sporting Club de Goa need to act together after losing their way in the league as they went down to their fifth loss in the last five games. Back to back derby losses, most recently against Churchill Brothers, have left Ekendra Singh’s side tottering at eleventh position in the league now. Striker James Moga has been awkwardly silent in the last few matches, as he is not fed enough due to lack of creativity in the middle of the park. The Flaming Oranje now visits Bangalore in order to start a new year with a win. All three points at the Bangalore stadium could see the Goan side finish at the ninth place after this round. The orange brigade would certainly start as favorites in this match as they look to bring their derailed season, back on track.
SC Goa expected line-up: Gerrad’D Mello(GK), Dowson, Rojen, Prajot, Jovel, Kalu, Boboi, Victorino, Moga, Joseph, Piexoto.
-
TheHardTackle’s Men To Watch Out For:
Pramod (HAL SC)
Victorino (SC Goa)
-
TheHardTackle’s Prediction:
HAL SC 2-1 SC Goa
-

-
SALGAOCAR SC
V
SHILLONG LAJONG FC
PJN Stadium, Margao
Kick off: 15:45 IST : Date- 4th January, 2012
***
-
Karim Bencharifa’s side fought their way back into the league contention after a somewhat disastrous start to the season, in which the Goans defend their title. Salgaocar overwhelmed East Bengal in the last round by four goals to nil as the crowd at Fatorda went into delirium. Defending champions now sit at the eighth position having sixteen points of twelve games. The goans have now won two out of there last three matches, and will now look to extend their purple patch as they welcome north easterners to Fatorda. Japanese Ryuji Sueoka has been pivotal in some of the recent good results, and would certainly be our man to watch out for. Salgaocar could leapfrog Prayag United and Air India, if they manage to hold on to all three points on Wednesday and expect some results to go in the favor.
Salgaocar expected line-up: Karanjit Singh (GK), Saha, Meitei, Dinesh, Nicolao, Francis Fernandes , Rocus Lamare, Tomba Singh, Ishfaq , Ryuji, Chidi Edeh.
Shillong Lajong completed a very professional and clinical victory over Chirag United Kerala in the last round at Indira Gandhi Stadium in Guwahati. Striker Christopher Chizoba, who has joined the Pradyum Reddy wagon at the start of the season, converted a well earned spot kick to garner all three crucial points for the Meghalaya boys. Shillong Lajong currently is slotted at ninth position, as the side recovers from a six nil drubbing at the hands of Churchill Brothers. The side has been found guilty of not being creative enough in the final third of the pitch, and the Brit mentor has openly addressed the issue a lot of times. the side form Meghalaya now face a daunting task of facing the defending champions in their own backyard. If anything, Pradyum Reddy would be expecting his side to demo the same grit and perseverance, which his side has been displaying in their last two matches.
Shillong Lajong expected line-up: Poirei (GK), Subhas, Lalhlimthara, Lyngdoh, Wailadmi, John Menyonger, Lalramluaha , Lalchhuanmawia, James, Cristopher, Tuboi.
-
TheHardTackle’s Men To Watch Out For:
Ryuji Sueoka (Salgaocar SC)
Chris Chizoba (Shillong Lajong FC)
-
TheHardTackle’s Prediction:
Salgaocar SC 3-1 Shillong Lajong

link-http://www.thehardtackle.com/2012/i-league-2011-12-preview-and-predictions-%E2%80%93-round-13/
 

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Baichung Bhutia’s Farewell Preview – India v Bayern Munich: The Legend Departs, The Legacy Continues!

INDIA
V
BAYERN MUNICH
.
PJN STADIUM, 10TH JAN 2012
1800 hours, TEN ACTION​
.
For once, a foreign football team will touch Indian shores and not enjoy the limelight. For once, a foreign football team will touch Indian shores and there will be no one chanting their name. For once, a foreign football team will touch Indian shores and the crowd will probably come to the stadium to watch the opposite team- rather, a player from the opposite team.
No, Indians haven’t forgotten their manners. It’s just that the whole of Indian football will be busy tomorrow planning a farewell for probably the greatest ever footballer to grace the game in India. As Baichung Bhutia prepares for one last farewell, you could forgive the Indian public for cheering the Indian team over the mighty Bayern Munich.
The Audi Football Summit planned as a farewell match for Baichung Bhutia would be played tomorrow at the Jawaharlal Nehru stadium at 6 pm. Before the big game, there will be the national India finals of the FC Bayern Youth Cup at 4:30 pm.

Bayern Munich
Bayern, who were on a week long training camp in Qatar arrived in New Delhi sans their fourth goalkeeper Maximillian Riedmuller, their only change from the squad that was originally announced. Bayern were in red hot form in Qatar, winning all their friendlies against Egyptian side Al Alhi and Qatari second division side Al Sailiya. Apart from striker Mario Gomez who limped off in one of the friendlies, the rest of the squad is fit and raring to go.
Bayern are enjoying the winter break in the Bundesliga and are currently in pole position after 17 games in the season. They enjoy a three-point advantage at the top of the league and will look forward to keeping themselves match fit to resume the Bundesliga on the 21st of January. The 22-time Bundesliga and 4 time Champions League winning outfit has come to India with a full strength squad that has the likes of Phillip Lahm, Arjen Robben, Thomas Mueller, Franck Ribery and Bastian Schweinsteiger. Bayern coach Jupp Heynckes will probably give a go to all of his players, it being a friendly match.

.
This will be Bayern’s second trip to India after touring Calcutta for Oliver Kahn’s farewell game. Director of Sport at Bayern, Christian Nerlinger was thrilled to be back in India again.” We’re looking forward to seeing this fascinating country,” said Nerlinger. Coach Heynckes, a member of the 1974 West German World Cup winning team too was upbeat: “I have great expectations of the trip. What’s the culture there? What are the people like?”
Bayern are expected to field a traditional 4-4-2 formation with the midfield comprising of Schweinsteiger, Ribery, Robben and Kroos. Thomas Mueller and Mario Gomez will play upfront while captain Lahm along with Daniel van Buyten, Jérôme Boateng and Holger Badstuber will play in defense. Coach Heynckes has warned that he will not take India lightly and play to their full potential. “We will be testing some of our players ahead of the second-leg and will surely play some attractive football,” he signed off.
Bayern Munich- Manuel Neuer, Hans Jorg Butt, Rouven Sattelmaier, Breno, Daniel van Buyten, Rafinha, Jérôme Boateng, Philipp Lahm, Diego Contento, Holger Badstuber, Franck Ribéry, Arjen Robben, Takashi Usami, Danijel Pranjic, David Alaba, Luiz Gustavo, Bastian Schweinsteiger, Toni Kroos, Anatoliy Tymoshchuk, Emre Can, Nils Petersen, Ivica Olic, Thomas Mueller, Mario Gomez


India
With the media attention focused so much on the Sikkimese Sniper, it is easy for the Indian players to let down their guard. The players assembled on the 8th of January after being released form their clubs and immediately got back to training at the Ambedkar stadium. Savio Medeira has picked a relatively new look side with several debutants in the squad. Adil Khan, Gurjinder Kumar and Felix D’Souza have all been called up for the camp for the first time.
Adil Khan after a good showing for the otherwise mediocre Sporting Clube de Goa has been rewarded after some consistent performances in the League so far. Felix too has been good for Churchill under the bar and will be looking forward to making his India debut. India will have a big void to fill at the centre of defence after the retirement of Mahesh Gawli. His place is likely to be taken by Gurjinder Kumar alongside Gourmangi Singh. The East Bengal stopper back has had a decent season for the Red and Golds partnering Uga Okpara in the heart of the East Bengal defense.
Nabi and Sameer Naik will make up the defense that will have Karanjit Singh in goal. Clifford Miranda. Climax Lawrence, Rocus Lamare and Vashum will make up the midfield while Baichung and Jeje will play upfront. It will be a big test for the Indian defense to keep the likes of Mueller and Robben at bay. Coach Savio Medeira has said that these games will not help Indian football, nevertheless it will be a good learning curve for some of the younger players. To play the likes of Bayern Munich would be a dream come true for some of these boys and they would definitely be looking forward to playing the German giants.
India- Karanjit Singh, Subhasish Roy Chowdhury, Felix D’Souza, Jaspal Singh, Gourmangi Singh, Sameer Naik, Govin Singh, Nirmal Chhetri, Syed Rahim Nabi, Adil Khan, Gurjinder Kumar, Reisangmi Vashum, Jewel Raja, Climax Lawrence, Rakesh Masih, Baldeep Singh, Clifford Miranda, Lalrindika Ralte, Rocus Lamare, Jeje Lalpekhlua, Sushil Singh, CS Sabeeth and Baichung Bhutia.

.
Who would have imagined that on the 15th of December 1976 in a tiny hamlet of Tinkitam in Sikkim, a blue-eyed boy would be born to take Indian football by storm. Baichung “The Legend” Bhutia has come a long way, carrying the footballing torch that many times was extinguished along the way by the cricketing wind, but held up from going off with his immaculate touches and fabulous goals. Each of his 43 goals in 107 matches for the National team has been treasures that Indian football fans have cherished.
The two Nehru Cups, the AFC Challenge Cup and the SAFF Cup wins along with the AFC Asian Cup qualification have been streaks of light in an otherwise dark era for Indian football, lit up only because “The Legend” dared to dream and believed in Indian football. The countless goals for his clubs, the Kolkata crowd – both Bagan and East Bengal halves – chanting his name and him being idolized by fans across India were testament to his talent; not to forget his feat of being the first Indian player to play professional football abroad.
Across the country, as the whole of the nation worshipped its cricketers, Bengal and Goa still idolized soccer because one Baichung Bhutia reminded them that football was still the beautiful game. As the whole of India discussed its cricketing heroes, a packed Ambedkar Stadium braved the rain to cheer India in the Nehru Cup final because one Baichung Bhutia gave them sheer ecstacy.
Those were unimaginable moments, moments that gave Indian football hope, moments that gave Indian football a chance to cheer, and moments that gave Indian football a chance to win. Baichung may no longer be with the National team but those fifteen odd years have given the likes of Jeje Lalpekhlua and Sunil Chhetri someone to look upto.

.
If Indian football has made a semblance of a mark on the global scene, it is because of one man – Baichung “The Legend” Bhutia.
Goodbye, our favourite son! What an incredible servant you have been for Indian football. You in the sight of those boots and the blue jersey gave us adrenalin pumping moments, moments to forget the Zidanes and the Ronaldos and cheer our very own.
His career has ended but his second innings in Indian football has well and truly started. In United Sikkim Football Club, Baichung will continue to be associated with Indian football. His aim – to bring about change in the way soccer is administered in the country and to make his club a model club in India. If this innings is anything like his first innings in Indian football, then be rest assured, Indian football will be on the rise. And may we dare say, its not “the end of an era but the start of a legacy”.

parent link-: http://www.thehardtackle.com/2012/b...nich-the-legend-departs-the-legacy-continues/
 

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round 14-part 1

League 2011-12 Preview and Predictions – Round 14
Thursday, January 12th, 2012 | Posted by Sachin Madaan

PAILAN ARROWS
V
SPORTING CLUBE DE GOA
Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata
Kickoff: 14:00 IST, 13th January, 2012
***
Pailan Arrows will be hoping to kick off their campaign in the New Year with a win after their match on 2nd January against Churchill Brothers was postponed. Desperate for their first win of the season, the youngsters from Kolkata will play host to the Goan outfit in the first match of the 14th round of the season. The fact that they have only lost one of their previous seven home encounters will give some heart to Sukhwinder Singh’s boys ahead of their clash on Friday. The biggest cause of concern for them has been their inability to score and with only five goals they have the worst offensive record in the league. It is high time for their forwards to step up their game, especially CS Sabeeth, if they don’t want to finish at the bottom of the table. Five goals in twelve matches is just not good enough.
Pailan Arrows expected line-up: Naveen Kumar (GK), Rajib, Gurtej Sr., Souvhik, Milan, Gurtej Jr., Abhinava, Lalrozama, Jibon Singh, Holicharan, CS Sabeeth.
Sporting Clube de Goa must be kicking themselves, after they were made to share points with the last placed HAL SC Bangalore in the last round. The side from Goa has to come up with a much better performance on Friday in order to break into the top half of the table. A brace from Anthony D’Souza saved the Flaming Oranje from the blues last time around but Arrows have a much better defensive record then the Bangalore-based outfit. With only three points separating them from the drop zone, the Goan side really has to make this match count. James Moga has been far from impressive over the past few weeks and this is the prefect occasion for the striker from South Sudan to unleash his prowess. Despite picking up a draw against the weakest side in the league, Ekendra Singh’s men will be favourites for their upcoming match. Whether they are able to do justice to the tag of favourites is hard to tell.
SC Goa expected line-up: Gerrad’D Mello(GK), Dowson, Rojen, Prajot, Jovel, Kalu, Boboi, Anthony D’Souza, Moga, Joseph, Piexoto.
TheHardTackle’s Men To Watch Out For:
CS Sabeeth (Pailan Arrows)
Victorino (SC Goa)
TheHardTackle’s Prediction:
Pailan Arrows 0 -1 SC Goa
-
PRAYAG UNITED
V
HAL BANGALORE
Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata
Kickoff: 14:00 IST, 14th January, 2012
***
The surprise package of the season, Prayag United, would be hoping to increase their goal count as they take on the bottom placed HAL Bangalore. Fresh from an impressive victory over the leaders Dempo SC, the Kolkata based side should not have much difficulty against the Bangalore-based outfit. Currently placed at sixth spot, Sanjoy Sen’s side would be hoping for a win in order to keep up the pressure on Pune FC and Mohun Bagan as both these sides have tough fixture on their hands this week with Pune hosting East Bengal and Bagan taking on Churchill Brothers in an away fixture. They seem to have come out of their recent shoddy form especially with a win over Dempo, and would be looking to carry forward the same form when they take on HAL. Prayag has been good at the back and Bello and Arnab won’t lose much sleep over the attacking line-up of the Bangalore institutional team. Presence of Yakubu in itself is enough to set the chills down the spine of any defensive lineup and with the current form of HAL’s backline, don’t be surprised if the match ends up with a tennis like scoreline in favour of the hosts.
Prayag United expected line up: Abhijit Mondal (GK), Chinta, Bello Rasaq, Arnab Mondal, Deepak, Denson, Francis, Subhash, Gouranga , Joshimar, Yakubu.
The beginning of the year saw HAL Bangalore picking up only their second point for the season with a draw against Sporting Clube de Goa. A goal difference of negative twenty six speaks for itself, the pathetic state of form Thyagaraj’s team is in. An impressive performance against Dempo meant they ended the yar on a high despite the loss. A point against SC Goa in the last round proves they have made a genuine effort to improve as we reach the second half of season. Still it doesn’t take a genius to make out that they have be outright poor this season and only a miracle can prevent them from getting relegated. Thehardtackle predicts that this miracle will have to wait for at least one more week as the line up against a highly impressive Prayag side.
Prayag have not lost a home fixture this season while HAL have managed to secure just a single point from all their away games. We leave the math to you now.
HAL expected line-up: Pramod (GK), Adeola , Kenneth, Goutam, Sudesh, Meiti, James, Biju Kumrar, R.C.Prakash, Vinod, Abdulla Hamza.
TheHardTackle’s Men To Watch Out For:
Yusif Yakubu (Prayag United FC)
Pramod (HAL SC)
TheHardTackle’s Prediction:
Prayag United 3 – 0 HAL
-
AIR INDIA
V
SHILLONG LAJONG FC
Balewadi Sports Complex, Pune
Kickoff: 15:30 IST, 14th January, 2012
***
The giant killers of the season Air India failed to live up to their billing last time around after they suffered a defeat at the hands to East Bengal but this week the Pilots face a comparatively easier opponents in Shillong Lajong. AirIndia’s defense was severely tested by East Bengaland was eventually penetrated successfully twice, something which will keep Mr. Santosh Kashyap a little busy ahead of their clash against the Shillong side. They are tied on points with the defending champions Salgaocar and would love to go past them in order to assert some pressure over the champions who play Mumbai FC a day later. Captain Tamba must be aware that Shillong have the third worst offensive record in the league and with this match they have a golden opportunity to improve upon their goal difference.
Air India expected line-up: Pawan Kumar (GK), Tamba, Oken Singh, Omi, Prem Kumar, Napoleon, Thomte, Manandeep, Samson Singh, Henry Ezeh
Shillong did not have an impressive start to the year as they suffered a defeat from the hands of the defending champions Salgaocar who are having a horrible season to say the least. With sixteen points they are breathing down the neck of the Airmen and on Saturday they will have a golden chance to come to level terms with them, which is bound to boost their morale. They have failed to notch up a win in an away match till now and an out of form Air India could be an ideal team for them to break this jinx. Their Nigerian striker Christopher was highly impressive against Salgaocar but midfield and backline has been their biggest weakness. Lyngdoh picked up his second caution against Salgaocar on 4th and is set to miss this match.
Shillong Lajong expected line-up: Poirei (GK), Subhas, Lalhlimthara, Ralte, Wailadmi, John Menyonger, Lalramluaha , Lalchhuanmawia, James, Cristopher, Tuboi.
TheHardTackle’s Men To Watch Out For:
Henry Ezeh (Air India)
Chris Chizoba (Shillong Lajong FC)
TheHardTackle’s Prediction:
Air India 1 – 0 Shillong Lajong

DEMPO SC
V
CHIRAG UNITED CLUB KERELA
Fatorda Stadium, Goa
Kickoff: 15:45 IST, 14th January, 2012
***
After starting the new year with a shocker, Dempo would be edging to go out against Chirag United and open up the gap to four points from chasing East Bengal, before the Red and Gold step on the pitch on Sunday afternoon. Dempo have had a horrid time since December but have somehow still managed to stay at the top the table. In Chirag United they face relatively easier opponents and Armando Colaco would only settle for a win against them. Arrival of Samir Naik, who had missed their tie against Prayag, will go a long way in strengthening their backline as he will pair up with his former national team partner Mahesh Gawli. Miranda and Pereira would be marshalling the troops in the middle of the park while Ranti Martins will be their target man up ahead of the field. Subhasish Roy Chowdhury had an excellent second half against the mighty Bayern Munich and would be taking all that confidence into this match against the lowly placed Chirag United.
Dempo expected line-up: Subhasish (GK), Antao, Naik, Gawli, Rebello , Godwin, Climax, Ranty, Anthony, Clifford, Koko.
With only eleven points from thirteen matches, Chirag United find themselves hanging in and around the relegation zone before the start of the 14th round. They did pick up a win over Mumbai FC in the last encounter but facing Dempo, should we add a wounded Dempo, at home is an altogether different ball game. With three teams sitting on the edge of the last relegation spot, the battle to survive in the I-league is really reaching its peak. Chirag find themselves in a rather uncomfortable position and would go all out against the leaders, knowing that a win over them will place them on equal points with Mumbai FC and SC Goa. Strikes from Sunday and Asif helped them in picking up a much needed win over Mumbai FC. Both these strikers will have to be on their toes on Saturday if they wish to make even a match out of this fixture.
Chirag United expected line-up: Sharath (GK), Sherin, Isaac, Sajesh, Charles, Jamshid, Asif, Sukhwinder, Usman, Anil, Sunday.
TheHardTackle’s Men To Watch Out For:
Ranti Martins (Dempo SC)
Sharath K (Chirag United Kerala)

http://www.thehardtackle.com/2012/i-league-2011-12-preview-and-predictions-–-round-14/
 

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round 14- part 2

PUNE FC
V
EAST BENGAL
Balewadi Sports Complex, Pune
14th January 2012, 6:45 PM IST
***
After getting the better of Mohun Bagan last week, Pune FC look set to take on their arch rivals East Bengal at the Balewadi Sports Complex on Saturday evening. Jeje and Lester scripted Pune’s win after Odafa gave the lead to Bagan. Jeje seems to picked up his last season’s form and if his impressing showing against Bayern Munich is anything to go by then he is bound to give a lot of headache to Trevor Morgan’s side. Currently at the fifth spot, a win here would allow Pune to leapfrog Mohun Bagan into the top four, at least till the later side plays on Sunday. The Red Lizards, looked an altogether different team against Mohun Bagan with the home crowd behind them and come this Saturday with the home crowd rallying behind them again one can expect Pune to match East Bengal minute by minute. Keita might be benched as Jeje is expected to get the nod ahead of him while Lester and Baldeep will be incharge of the creativity in the middle of the park.
Pune FC expected line-up: Abhra Mondal (GK), Othallo, Costa, Chika, Gurjinder,Baldeep, Srikanth, Jeje, Lester, Douhou, Venky.
Having picked up a win over a tricky side Air India in the last round, East Bengal face yet another team from Maharashtra this time- Pune FC. But even before the kick off East Bengal have suffered some major blows. Robin Singh and Noaba Singh have picked up injuries and would not be travelling to Pune over the weekend. Doungel is expected to start alongside Tolgay as Saikat Saha Roy will be taking up Naoba’s place at the right back position in the starting eleven. Sandip Nandy has been dropped after conceding a howler against Bagan and Gurpreet will be taking his place between the sticks for this match. Mehtab Hossain is back from his suspension and will be in the starting eleven. His availability will be like a much needed shot in the arm for Trevor Morgan’s side. This match is very difficult to call and all that can be said is that we have lip smacking contest on the cards.
East Bengal expected line-up: Gurpreet (GK), Soumik, Gurwinder, Okpara, Saikat, Mehtab, Sushant, Penn, Sanju, Doungel, Tolgay
TheHardTackle’s Men To Watch Out For:
Jeje (Pune FC)
Sanju Pradhan (East Bengal)
TheHardTackle’s Prediction:
Pune FC 2 – 3 East Bengal
-
-
CHURCHILL BROTHERS SC
V
McDOWELL MOHUN BAGAN
Fatorda Stadium, Margao, Goa
15th January, 2011 – 3:45 PM IST
***
The Goan Red Machine is slotted at the second slot, just one point off the table leaders and arch rivals Dempo SC. The Durand Cup champs still have an extra match up their sleeve as their last match against Pailan Arrows in Kolkata was delayed due to unavoidable reasons by the AIFF. In the round fourteen, Churchill Brothers welcome the challenge of Mohun Bagan at PJN Stadium in Margao this Sunday. In the first leg of the same encounter, the Mariners got the better of the Manuel Gomes’ side by three goals to nothing. Sunil Chettri, Ashim Biswas and Jewel Raja were on target that day.
For Churchill, Gabonese striker Henri is in top form which influenced in him being selected for the probable squad of 30 players for the prestigious African Cup Of Nations. As he could not make it in to the final 23-member squad, he will be available for this match. The team has scored a mammoth 15 goals in their last five encounters. Henri Antchouet would be TheHardTackle’s man to watch out for in this match as Churchill Brothers look to consolidate their position at the top in this top of the table battle.
Churchill Brothers expected line-up: Felix (GK), Antun, Henri, Beto, Denzil, Ravanan, Lalrindika, Steven, Lenny, Raju, Opara.
Mohun Bagan is rooted to the fourth spot in the table with a total of 24 points, garnered out of 13 match days. The Mariners were undone in their last match against a rampaging Pune FC side at balewadi as the Prasanta Banerjee mentored side surrendered the slender lead. Hudson Lima and Gouranaga Dutta are both serving a single match suspension for receiving back to back cautions. Barreto will be back in the squad after missing the last game against the Red Lizards. Defender Zeleny has been retained for the second leg matches and is also expected to start in front of custodian Sangram Mukherjee. It is a very crucial match for both the teams as an addition of three points either way could impact the table. Odafa Okolie would be our man to watch out for in the Sabuj-Maroon jersey as the Nigerian Hit-man has quickly notched up eleven goals after a slow start to the season.
Mohun Bagan expected line-up: Sangram Mukherjee(GK), Surkumar, Rakesh, Anwar, Manish Mathani, Jewel, Snehasis, Nabi, Dhanarajan, Asim, Odafa.
TheHardTackle’s Men To Watch Out For:
Henri Antchouet (Churchill Brothers SC)
Ofada Okolie (Mohun Bagan AC)
TheHardTackle’s Prediction:
Churchill Brothers 1-2 Mohun Bagan
-
MUMBAI FC
V
SALGAOCAR SC
Balewadi Sports Complex, Pune
15th January 2012, 3:30 PM IST
***
Khalid Jamil’s side face an uphill battle as the second leg of rounds kick off from tomorrow. Mumbai FC is currently slotted at tenth in the I-league table. The Mumbai side are just three points off the relegation zone, where Pailan Arrows are slowly making their move up, closing the gap further. After a string of good results leading up to the New Year, Mumbai FC lost a crucial match at home against a struggling Chirag Kerala side. Round fourteen witnesses Mumbai FC welcome Salgaocar in their fifth consecutive home match. In the first leg of this fixture, Salgaocar clinched all three points courtesy a Barbosa goal. The coastal side needs to pull up their socks before they get sucked into the relegation battle as all the bottom half teams try to crawl their way back into the safe zone. Striker Gbeneme Friday, who has scored three goals in the last three matches, would be our man to watch out for. Keegan Pereira would be back for the Mumbai side for this match after serving a single match ban.
Mumbai FC expected line-up: Nidhinlal(GK), Dhanachandra, Amiri, Peter Siddiquii, Kima, Keegan, Faizal, Cavin Lobo, Ebi Sukore, Abhishek, Friday.
Defending Champions have somehow managed to make their way back up to the eighth position in the table. Karim Bencharifa’s side has won three of their last four matches including a draw against Mohun Bagan at YBK. Salgaocar defeated Shillong Lajong at PJN in the last courtesy goals from in form, Ryuji Sueoka and Ishfaq Ahmed. The Japanese recruit has now scored three goals in the last four games and is in top form. Defenders Nicolau Colaco and Jaspal Parmar will miss this match owing to the suspensions from the last match against Shillong Lajong. Another win here on Sunday could see the defending champions finish the fourteenth round at no less than sixth position. Karim bencharifa would be hoping that his side continues the good run and try to unsettle the top four.
Salgaocar expected line-up: Karanjit Singh (GK), Saha, Meitei, Khelemba, Rino Anto, Francis Fernandes , Rocus Lamare, Tomba Singh, Ishfaq , Ryuji, Chidi Edeh.
TheHardTackle’s Men To Watch Out For:
Gbeneme Friday (Mumbai FC)
Ryuji Sueoka (Salgaocar SC)
TheHardTackle’s Prediction:
Mumbai FC 1-1 Salgaocar SC

link-http://www.thehardtackle.com/2012/i-league-2011-12-preview-and-predictions-%E2%80%93-round-14/
 

Jivara

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Looool ... Indian football.. :D

I once saw India play UAE, the commentator kept saying... Dangerous shot from the Indian player... I found it amusing, but maybe it was because I smoked some shiba shiba before.
 

b@D~HorsiE

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Looool ... Indian football.. :D

I once saw India play UAE, the commentator kept saying... Dangerous shot from the Indian player... I found it amusing, but maybe it was because I smoked some shiba shiba before.
and what has Jordan achieved at the continental level in football? ASIAN cup final appearances ZERO for Jordon ASIAD winner.. no not even that... you of all the people shouldn't be talking about INDIAN football
 

Jivara

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and what has Jordan achieved at the continental level in football? ASIAN cup final appearances ZERO for Jordon ASIAD winner.. no not even that... you of all the people shouldn't be talking about INDIAN football

lol, chill down home boy, no offense, but Indians just suck bad at football, just recognize it. A country that has around 2 billion people? cannot produce 11 good footballers.

and dont compare with Jordan, we are much better, in fact I think we are currently one of the top 3 in West Asia next to Iran and Iraq, and we actually did make it to the Asian cup, we went out to Japan on penalty shoot outs in 2002 in the most horrible fashion after the ref ordered that kicks should be taken on the other end of the pitch. And btw we are still in contention to qualify for the World Cup... so dont generalize about Jordanian football.. players get paid peanuts but they still improve every year, and we are only 6 million people.
 

Sage

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and what has Jordan achieved at the continental level in football? ASIAN cup final appearances ZERO for Jordon ASIAD winner.. no not even that... you of all the people shouldn't be talking about INDIAN football

tbf india really sucks.

I mean U.A.E right now are horrible, and drawing with you guys 2-2 should have been a great sign, but even though U.A.E are horrible, they're still not as bad as india.

just showing you how bad india are, u.a.e players can fuck themselves with a hammer.
 

sushanmilano

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Yes but indians are world champions in cricket :o better to be good at something than irrelevant in everything (jordan)
 
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