Rebels surprise Bengaluru with 2-1 win, Students Union beat Independents

Bengaluru FC Media  

Bengaluru colts went down 2-1 to Rebels FC in the BDFA Super Division League in a tightly contested encounter at the Bangalore Football Stadium, on Wednesday. Amay Morajkar (19’) was on target for BFC, while goals from Carlos Challam (34’) and Muheeb (84’) secured the points for Rebels. 

In the other two games played later at the same venue, Young Challengers drew with Bangalore Eagles and Students Union won their second game in a row defeating Bangalore Independents 2-1.  

Bengaluru started the game brightly and pushed the Rebels FC backline deep into their own half in the opening stages. Thoi Singh made all the right noise on the wings and led the attack along with Akashdeep Singh and Kamalesh Palanisamy. 

Twenty minutes into the game, Thoi was brought down just outside the 18-yard-box, handing the Blue Colts a free-kick in a dangerous area. Amay stepped up and curled the ball into the far corner beyond the reach of Sanfeer K in goal to give Bengaluru the lead.

Rebels FC clawed their way back into the game against the run of play and scored the equaliser just past the half hour mark when Challam picked up a stray pass and smashed a half volley beyond Sharon from distance. 

Into the second half, Bengaluru took the lead back through Kamalesh, but his shot from close range went just wide of the post. 

Van Loon brought on Lalpekhlua, Sudheer Kotikala, Damaitphang Lyngdoh and Monirul Molla to boost the Blue Colts’ attack but against the run of play, it was the hosts that found the net. Having won a free-kick close to the corner flag, Sanjib Singh put in a cross for Muheeb, who nodded it beyond Sharon to give Rebels a lead they would protect until the final whistle.

The Blue Colts next face FC Agniputhra, on 12th September, at the same venue. 

Bengaluru FC enter Durand Cup knockouts with 2-2 draw against FC Goa

Bengaluru FC Media

Sunil Chhetri and Sivasakthi Narayanan were on target for Bengaluru FC in a 2-2 draw against FC Goa, in a Group A encounter of the 2022 Durand Cup at the Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan, in Kolkata, on Tuesday. The Blues, who took a two-goal lead into the break, came up against a resilient Goa side in the second period, who drew level through strikes from Phrangki Buam and Lesly Rebello.

Earlier, Blues’ Head Coach Simon Grayson handed starts to goalkeeper Amrit Gope and Prince Ibara as summer signing Javi Hernandez joined Jayesh Rane on the bench. Bengaluru had won their opening two matches of the tournament against Jamshedpur FC (2-1) and Indian Air Force FT (4-0), and needed just a point to attain an unassailable lead in the group.

 

Bengaluru started strong and controlled proceedings for much of the opening minutes before Ibara pulled up with an injury, forcing Grayson into making an early change, replacing the Congolese international with Narayanan.

The Blues opened the scoring through skipper Chhetri, who dispatched an inch-perfect free-kick past Goa custodian Hrithik Tiwari in the 24th minute to make it 1-0. Only moments later, Sivasakthi doubled the Bengaluru lead, tapping home a knock-down from Udanta Singh after Bruno Ramires had found the winger in the box with a ball over the Goa defense.

 

Bengaluru took the 2-0 lead into the break and came out with one more change in personnel as Jayesh Rane marked his return from injury, replacing Ramires. Grayson’s side had several chances to add to their lead within minutes of the restart, but efforts from Parag Shrivas, Danish Farooq and Sivasakthi were dealt with by the visitors.

 

Against the run of play, Goa pulled one back when Rohit Kumar’s stray pass found winger Phrangki, who rounded Gope and slotted home to make it 2-1. Rohit almost made amends at the other end, when he ran onto Sivasakthi’s pass and got a shot away but Tiwari pushed it onto the woodwork with a fantastic save.

 

Goa scored the equalizer just past the hour mark when Amrit failed to deal with a cross from the right, allowing Lesly Rebello to slot home from close range to make it 2-2. Bengaluru made further changes, with Hernandez, Faisal Ali and Leon Augustine making their way onto the pitch.

 

Bengaluru pushed forward in search of a winner, but it wasn’t to be as the visitors held fort to see out the rest of the encounter. The Blues next face Group A leaders Mohammedan SC at the same venue, on August 2nd.

Kickstart rout BUFC, Deccan and Roots play 1-1 draw

Kickstart was seen in energetic form in their second round of BDFA Super Division League drubbing BUFC 6-0 at the Bangalore Football Stadium today. In the second match of the day, FC Deccan rally back to hold Roots FC 1-1 in a thriller. 

It was Princewill Emeka again who scored the bulk of goals for Kickstart today but not before Prashanth Kalinga opening the account in the 18th minute. The score was 2-0 in the first half. 

Abhishek Powar-56' made 3-0 after changing ends followed by two from Emeka thus completing his hattrick. 

Promising Nikhil Raj, who was loaned out to Indian Arrows and Odisha in previous two seasons respectively completed the sixth goal in the added time. 

The Roots FC versus FC Deccan game saw the latter pressing early in the game. Roots boys took time to settle down, they had to replace defender Afsal early in the game owing to an ankle injury, but defence held tight not allowing shots from the vicinity. 

While Deccan’s game was constructed mainly thru medio Shelton Nickson, their forward Lijith was troubling Root’s defence. 

Roots did manage to take control of the mid-field later in first half, they had couple of goal scoring opportunity one from a howler from opponent keeper. 

The half-time score read 0-0. 

Post lemon break saw, Roots taking charge having an urgency to score. They took lead in the 59th minute from a move that was orchestrated from defence. Nikhil controlling the ball from back gave to Amogh on the right flank, who in turn passed to Anirudh, the later played to Amogh. Anirudh again got the ball back and put on the back of the net. 

Roots joy did not long last. An inch perfect cross from Shelton reached Kaviarasan, whose free header was out of keeper Mani’s reach. There was no one from Roots defence seen following Kaviarasan’s jump. 

Roots injected three fresh players that resulted more attack from their end but could not convert to a goal.

FCBU and MEG play out goalless draw

FCBU Media 

Reigning BDFA Super Divison champions FC Bengaluru United and MEG played out a goalless draw in their second game in the ongoing BDFA Super Division Championship at the Bengaluru Football Stadium. 

It was an attritional first half with both teams struggling to get off the blocks. FCBU worked hard to create chances but failed to capitalise on them in the final third. FCBU had their first big chance in the sixth minute when a Rakesh Pradhan shot from outside the box just cleared the bar. Soon after, a shot from Irfan took a deflection and was easily parried away by the goalkeeper. 

Both teams looked to up the ante in the second half but once again it was a series of missed chances, the scoreline reading 0-0.

 

Bengaluru FC rout Young Challengers 8-0 in BDFA Super Division league

Bengaluru FC Media 

Bengaluru FC began their BDFA Super Division Campaign with a comfortable 8-0 victory over  FC, at the Bangalore Football Stadium, on Saturday. A hat-trick from Thoi Singh (42’, 45’, 50’, 78’) and goals from Rajanbir Singh (10’), Clarence Fernandes (21’), Sudheer Kotikala (58’) and Monirul Molla (73’) ensured all the points for Jan Van Loon’s side. 

Bengaluru began the game on the front foot and opened the scoring early. Damaiphang Lyngdoh’s low cross into a crowded 18-yard-box found the feet of Rajanbir, who smashed it into the back of the net from close range to give BFC the lead. Twenty minutes into the game, a well-worked corner routine went in favour of the Blue Colts who capitalised and doubled their lead. Amay Morajkar’s cross found Rajanbir, who tapped it into an empty net to make it two. 

The pace of the game slowed down with both teams keeping the ball in the middle of the park, but Bengaluru switched gears and bagged two more goals in the last five minutes of the first half, courtesy of Thoi. 

Into the second half, it took BFC just five minutes to score another goal as Thoi completed his hat-trick. A sublime through ball from Amay Morajkar from the center of the field, found Thoi who kept his composure and slotted it past SK Sadekuddin to make it five. 

Sudheer got in on the action just eight minutes later with a powerful finish from just outside the 18-yard-box to make it six. Substitute Monirul made a huge impact in the game and scored with a sublime volley before setting up BFC’s eighth goal. Molla’s pass found Thoi, who scored his fourth with an easy tap-in. 

The Blue Colts next face Rebels FC on 31st August, at the same venue.

 

Kickstart begin league with win over Deccan, Dream United and Kodagu settle for draw

Kickstart started their campaign with a 1-0 win over FC Deccan, while Dream United and Kodagu played 1-1 draw at the BDFA Super Division league played at Bangalore Football Stadium today. 

Princewill had his Puttaiah Memorial scoring boots on when his team faced Deccan in the afternoon. Even after having maximum control, Kickstart were unable to open the score in the game, which finally came from the Nigerian in the 83rd minute.

The game between Dream United FC and Kodagu FC saw the former, taking the lead in the 16th minute from talented player from Meghalaya Elvis Nongtdu. Kodagu was quick to equalize via Deepak Raj.

File Picture 

Parikrma, Kickstart FC win big in KWL

Playing with domination, superpowers Kickstart FC defeated Roots FC 9-0 at the second round of 5th KWL (Super Division) played at the Bangalore Football Stadium today. In the other two games played at the same venue, Parikrma girls thrashed Rebels Women's FC by 11 goals and Maatru Pratisthana overcame Pink Panthers late challenge with a 4-3 win. 

Kickstart FC versus Roots FC game saw the former taking lead in the 5th minute from an Aarushi goal. Attacking from both flanks, Kickstart girls kept Roots’ defence under pressure; kept scoring regularly in the first half. Roots girls just could not keep with the pace of Kickstart forwards and conceded few easy goals. 

Star striker Kaviya completed hattrick in the first half itself with Aarushi scoring her second. On the half time, score-line read 5-0 in favour of Kickstart FC. 

After changing ends, Roots FC combined well in defence, though the attacks were still coming from the Kickstart end, but Roots girls were resilient to thwart Kickstart assault. This was going well for Roots with occasional counters, however striker Sanjita was easily apprehended by Kickstart defence. 

Kickstart again came to scoring thanks to opponent’s silly defending. Roots defence crumbled further conceding 3 goals in last 8 minute. 

 

Students Union earn full points, Rebels FC loose to Sporting Club in a tight contest

Rebels FC, newly promoted Super Division team after winning A Division title last season lost out to another newcomer, Sporting Club Bengaluru in a keenly contested game at the Bangalore Football Stadium, on Wednesday. Sporting Club, asserts of having majority local boys in their rooster, were up by two goals in the first half. Rebels made 2-2 in second half, within a span of 4 minutes. When the game was likely going for a draw, Appu pulled one for Sporting Club in the 90th minute. 

Friends United FC, runner up of A Division title last season, played 1-1 game against ASC. Meitei gave a lead to the army team in 56th minute, which was negated by Friends’ striker, Karnataka Santoth Trophy player Magesh Selva. 

Thanco's Students Union pocketed 3-full points by defeating ADE 2-1 in the first game of the day. 

 

Bengaluru cruise 4-0 winners past Indian Air Force in Durand Cup

Bengaluru FC Media 

Simon Grayson’s Bengaluru FC side ran away 4-0 winners against Indian Air Force FT at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan, in Kolkata, on Tuesday, climbing to joint-top of Group A in the 2022 Durand Cup in the process, level on points with Mohammedan SC. Goals from Roy Krishna and Sunil Chhetri gave the Blues a 2-0 lead heading into the break before substitutes Faisal Ali and Sivasakthi Narayanan added two more in the second period.

 

Grayson made six changes to the side that took on Jamshedpur FC in the opening encounter, handing starts to Sandesh Jhingan, Aleksandar Jovanovic and Krishna. Chhetri and Krishna started in attack for the Blues, who set up in a 3-5-2 formation.

 

Bengaluru started strong, making inroads from the get go and took only nine minutes to break the deadlock. A long diagonal from Jovanovic fell to Krishna, who brushed off his marker and finished past Shibin Raj in the IAF goal. Fifteen minutes later, Chhetri doubled the lead, converting a seemingly harmless cross into the area from the tightest of angles off an IAF defender.

 

IAF’s best chance of the half fell to Mohammed Aqib, but his shot from distance was parried away by Gurpreet. Into the second period, Bengaluru rang in a change as Jhingan was replaced by Udanta Singh. Prabir Das fell into the three-man backline as Udanta took his place.

 

Bengaluru continued to push forward, and made three more changes in quick succession past the hour mark as Faisal, Alan and Parag made their way on to replace Jovanovic, Muirang and Krishna. Only three minutes on from his introduction, Faisal wrote his name into the scoresheet, slotting in from close range after Wangjam had done well to keep the ball in play for Udanta.

 

Into extra-time, Bengaluru had another substitute on the scoresheet with Sivasakthi, who had replaced Chhetri just moments earlier, running onto a pass from Wangjam and slotting past Shibin Raj.

 

Bengaluru face FC Goa next, at the VYBK, on August 30th.

 

BDFA Super Division 2022-23 - Day 1

Bangalore District Football Association's (BDFA) Super Division League, city's flagship league kicked off today at Bangalore Football Stadium. 

The main feature of this edition is that the league is played with 20 teams, something that even I-League and ISL yet to put up. 

The last edition was played between 15 teams with no relegation. While 2 new teams were promoted from previous season, 3 new teams were given direct entry to Super Division. 

1 FC Bengaluru United 2 Kickstart FC 3 Bangalore Eagles FC 4 Bengaluru FC 5 Jawahar Union	6 MEG 7 ASC 8 BUFC    9 Kodagu FC 10 FC Deccan
11 FC Deccan 12 Thanco's Students Union FC 13 Bangalore Dream United 14 Young Challengers - Not relegated  15 ADE - Not relegated	16 Rebels FC - Promoted to Super Division 17 Friends United FC - Promoted to Super Division 18 Roots FC - New affiliation  19 FC Agniputhra - New affiliation 20 Sporting Club Bengaluru - New affiliation

Certainly Kalid Jamil, FCBU's new coach for this season expected a tough opponent in season's first competetitive game. However, their opponent Jawahar Union, turned up late, and struggled to assemble players so that it can constitute an official game. 

While BUFC begin the league with a positive note beating strong Bangalore Eagles, Roots FC sprung a surprise by beating MEG.

Result - Aug 22, 2022

• FC Bengaluru United 17 (Hardy Cliff Nongbrin-8', 37', 77', Aenam Graffenberg Jyrwa-17', 25', 87', Manvir Singh-31', Selwyn Frazer Miranda-33', Sajan Franklin-40', 47', Chesterpoul Lyngdoh-56', 68', 85', 90', Praful Kumar-65', Bedashwor Singh-69', 89') Vs Jawahar Union FC 0 
• BUFC 2 (Patrick Mon Couer Libii-65' Jeevith KN -72') Vs Bangalore Eagles FC 0
• Roots FC 1 (Amogh G-29') Vs MEG 0  

Kickstart begin title defence with 5-0 win against Maatru Pratishtana

Winner of the last three edition of KWL Super Division, Kickstart FC started their campaign this season with a bang defeating Maatru Pratishtana FC 5-0 at Bangalore Football Stadium today evening. Matru Pratishtana girls were down by two goals in the first half, after lemon break, Kickstart girls pumped thee more. 

In a keenly contested first game of the day, Super Division new comer Modern Girls FC beat another new comer Pink Panthers FC 5-3. The latter team took lead in 8th minute, however, Modern Girls dominated proceedings there on, they rallied back to equalize, and scored two more. Pink Panthers reduced one to make the score 3-2 for Modern in half-time. Modern Girls conceded after changing ends, but Mira Devi’s brace, sealed the fate on Pink Panthers. 

KWL will resume on Thursday, Aug 25 with the following matches: 
 - 12:00 PM: Rebels Women’s FC Vs Parikrma FC 
 - 2:00 PM: Maatru Pratishtana FC Vs Pink Panthers FC 
 - 4:00 PM: Kickstart FC Vs Roots FC 

Kemp FC start KWL campaign with a big win, Misaka too off to a perfect start

Kemp FC, coached by former Modern Girls FC, Sudhakar made a rousing start scoring a dozen over Rebels Women’s FC on Day 1 of KWL Super Division played at the Bangalore Football Stadium.

Kemp girls scored the first goal in the 3rd minute of the game and kept scoring at regular intervals. They were leading by seven goals in the first half. Rebels girls reduced margin in the later end of second half. 

In the second game of the day, which was often interrupted by downpour, Misaka United beat newcomers Roots FC 5-0. Misaka girls were leading a goal in the first half and scored four more after changing ends. 

In day two of KWL 22-23 Super Division, Pink Panthers will play against Modern Girls FC, both teams qualified from A to Super Division last season and -while Kickstart FC will begin defending their KWL title against Matru Pratishtana FC.

 

Results - KWL Super Division 2022-23

1. 21.08.2022, 2:00 PM: Kemp FC 12 (Lalnunsiami-3', 36', 39', Lalbiak Diki-5', Lalrinmuani-16', 33' [P], Elizabeth Vanakmawii-48', 52', Sunita Sarkar-63', 69', Trea Menon-65', 77') Vs Rebels Women’s FC 1 (Kajal -71')
2. 21.08.2022, 4:00 PM: Roots FC 0 Vs Misaka United FC 5 (Nisilia Majaw-27', 47', 67', Simran Gurung-52', 85')  
3. 22.08.2022, 2:00 PM: Pink Panthers FC 3 (Sujata Nagaraja Shetty-8', Abirami V-38', Reshma ER-65') Vs Modern Girls FC 5 (Dhanshri Kadam-14', Usham Laxmi Devi-23', Tanavi Gawade-28', Pukh Rambam Mira Devi-67', 76')
4. 22.08.2022, 4:00 PM: Maatru Pratishtana FC 0 Vs Kickstart FC 5 (Aarushi Santhosh-3', 35', Sushmita Lepeha-51', Kaviya-62', 72') 
5. 25.08.2022, 12:00 PM: Rebels Women’s FC 0 Vs Parikrma FC 11 (Aarati Tudu-8', 38', 53', 80', 85', Sonali Mondal-18', 46', Pakkla Boro-39', 88', Sanila Basumatary-65', Rajma-56'[OG]) 
6. 25.08.2022, 2:00 PM: Maatrupratishtana FC 4 (VG Lekhasri-6', Kavita-25', Nancy-38', 47') Vs Pink Panthers FC 3 (Aleena Tony-60', 85', Kavita-7'[OG])  
7. 25.08.2022, 4:00 PM: Kickstart FC 9 (Aarushi Santhosh-5', 32', 65', Kaviya Pakkirisamy-21', 26', 37', Monalisa-82', 88', Rupali Bauri-87') Vs Roots FC 0  
8. 26.08.2022, 12:00 PM: Modern Girls FC 1 (Laxmi Priya Lenka-64') Vs Kemp FC 3 (Lalrinmuani-23', Sunita Sarkar-80', Rafiya -85') 
9. 28.08.2022, 2:00 PM: Misaka United FC 9 (Simran Gurung-11', 17', 33', 34', 45'+1', Nisilia Majaw-22', 68', Tanvie Hans-52', Liton Jam Rikma Devi-89') Vs Rebels Women’s FC 0   
10. 29.08.2022, 12:00 PM: Parikrma FC 1 (Sanila Basumatary-89'[P]) Vs Kickstart FC 8 (Sabana Khatun-11', Gudiy kumar-23'[OG], Kaviya -35', 45'+2', 48', Sushmita Lepcha-41', 54', Aruna Bag-83') 
11. 29.08.2022, 2:00 PM: Roots FC 0 Vs Modern Girls FC 1 (Mayanglambam Joshima Devi-23')   
12. 29.08.2022, 4:00 PM: Kemp FC 10 (Lalbiak Diki-6', Lalrinmuani-12', 24', 27', 81', 84', 90'+1', Lalnunsiami-37', Zairemma-78', Elizabeha Vanlalmawii-88') Vs Pink Panthers FC 2 (Lavana Gebell-71', Aleena Tony-89')  
13. 01.09.2022, 12:00 PM: Maatrupratishtana FC 2 (Lekhasri-37', Ananya-87) Vs Roots FC 0  
14. 02.09.2022, 12:00 PM: Modern Girls FC 0 Vs Misaka United FC 2 (Nisilia Majaw-50', Sunalnda Iawaren-73')  
15. 02.09.2022, 2:00 PM: Kickstart FC 9 (Kaviya Pakkirisamy-15', 36', 60', Sonia Marak- 34', 41', 76', Tania Kanti-78', Priya Tamang-82', Sushmita Lepcha-84') Vs Rebels Women’s FC 0  
16. 02.09.2022, 4:00 PM: Pink Panthers FC 1 (Abirami V-41') Vs Parikrma FC 2 (Sujata Rai-19', Arati Tudu-46' ) 
17. 05.09.2022, 4:00 PM: Roots FC Vs Kemp FC
18. 05.09.2022, 2:00 PM: Parikrma FC 1 (M Devikarani-31') Vs Maatru Pratishtana FC 1 (Keerthana-51') 
19. 05.09.2022, 4:00 PM: Misaka United FC 5 (Simran Gurung-7', Nisila Majaw-33', 56', 89', Tanvie Hans-47'[P]) Vs Pink Panthers FC 0  
20. 06.09.2022, 4:00 PM: Modern Girls FC 5 (Tanvi Gawade-44', Dhanashri Kadam-62', Usham Pushparani Chanu-65', 87', Usham Luxzmi Devi-77'[P]) Vs Rebels Women’s FC 0 
21. 08.09.2022, 12:00 PM: Misaka United 3 (Simran Gurung-13', Nisila Majaw -18', 27') Vs Maatrupratishtana FC 0  
22. 09.09.2022, 12:00 PM: Kickstart FC 5 (Sonia Marak-4', 10', Kaviya Pakkirswamy-44', Sibani Sharma-50', Sonia Rana-72') Vs Modern Girls FC 0   
23. 09.09.2022, 2:00 PM: Pink Panthers FC 4 (Aleena Tony-21', 81', Abhirami V-52', 90') Vs Rebels Women’s FC 0  
24. 09.09.2022, 4:00 PM: Kemp FC 3 (Lal Biak Diki-17', 43', LalnunSiami-57') Vs Parikrma FC 1 (Pakhila Boro-47') 
25. 13.09.2022, 2:00 PM: Roots FC 0 Vs Parikrma FC 4 ((Spoorthi KU-2', Pakhila Boro-9', Sonali Mondal-77', 88')  
26. 13.09.2022, 4:00 PM: Kemp FC 1  (Sunita Sarkar-61') Vs Misaka United FC 1 (Nisila Majaw-67') 
27. 14.09.2022, 2:00 PM: Kickstart FC 10 (Sonia Marak-20', 51', 66', Kaviya Pakkirisamy-38', 80', 89', Sushmita Lepcha-47', Sonia Rana-45'+1', Tania Kanti-71', 73' ) Vs Pink Panthers FC 0 
28. 14.09.2022, 4:00 PM: Maatru Pratishtana 11 (Nancy-1', 16', 20', 50', 54', 87', Kavita-3', Lekhasri VG-21', 31', Seema-48', Keerthana-79') Vs FC Rebels Women’s FC 3 (Kajal-6', 47', Poorjitha-90'+2')  
29. 19.09.2022, 2:00 PM: Misaka United FC Vs Parikrma FC
30. 19.09.2022, 4:00 PM: Modern Girls FC 3 (Usham Pushparani Chanu-59', Anjana Thapa-62', Laxmi Priya Lenka-63') Vs Maatrupratishtana FC 1 (Nancy-24')   
31. 20.09.2022, 2:00 PM: Kickstart FC 6 (Sonia-16', 39', Kaviya-18', 59', Maittreyi-49', Monalisha-64') Vs Kemp FC 0  
32. 20.09.2022, 4:00 PM: Roots FC 5 (Sanjita-16', 36', 50', Iniya-22', 44', ) Vs Rebels Women's FC 1 (Kajol Kumari-71') 

KWL Super Division 5th edition kicks-off tomorrow

Karnataka State Football Association will kick-off its fifth edition of the Karnataka Women's League (KWL) Super Division 2022-23 season tomorrow, August 21. Three-time champs, Kickstart FC Karnataka will be looking to clinch the title for the 4th time in a row. 

Kickstart FC Karnataka, Misaka United FC, Kemp FC, Maatrupratishtana FC, Parikrma FC, Rebels Women's FC, Modern Girls FC, Pink Panthers FC, and Roots FC are the nine teams participating in this edition.

The best player for every match will receive a Rs 2000 voucher from Plaeto and Rs 1000 voucher from Barley & Grapes Cafe.

The league will be played in a single-leg round-robin format hence giving each team a minimum of 8 games. The tournament is scheduled to go on till October 10.

This season, all teams will be donning the #NoFoulPlay logo on the right hand sleeve of their jersey in support of indiscrimination, anti-sexism, and equality. The #NoFoulPlay campaign was launched recently under the aegis of KSFA.

In Sunday's opening matches Kemp FC will face Rebels Women's FC at 2:00 pm while Roots FC will face Misaka United FC at 4.00 pm.

 

Kickstart lift Puttaiah Memorial Cup

Kickstart started the 2022-23 season on a brilliant note by winning Puttaiah Memorial Cup played at the Bangalore Football Stadium this evening. Kickstart lost the inaugral game at the group stage but improved from then on, and peaked when it mattered the most. In the final today, Bangalore Eagles FC could hardly match up to their ability, and handed a 3-1 loss. 

I-League veteran, Princewill Emeka was quick enough to latch on a slow Eagles defense to give Kicstart an early lead. 

Eagles too had their share of chances after conceding, but their strikers lacked finesse and most often than not the ball landed in Kickstart defence.   

Just when everyone was hoping for an equilizer, central midfielder Ryan Wilfred with his astute football sense scored a goal. The game was only 28 minuted old and by then Kickstart we sitting pretty with a two-goal cushion. 

Eagles reduced the margin in the added time when Eagles striker Sanju Kumar was unnecessarily tripped down inside the box and defender Bhanu Prakash made no mistake to score from a penalty spot.   

Princewill was seen in action again after changing ends. Abhisekh, with his speedy run from the right flank floated for one Princewill, which the later made no mistake in putting the ball on the back of the net. 

Kickstart failed to score more despite making enough moves. Bangalore Eagles looked good but in patches and lacked the skill to match Kickstart in all department. 

Kickstart and Bangalore Eagles to play Puttaiah Memorial final

Bengaluru FC Media 

Kickstart put up a much better show in the knockout stage defeating ASC 2-1 in the first semi-final of Puttaiah Memorial. In the later semi-final, it was heartbreak Bengaluru FC Colts as they bowed with a shootout loss against Bangalore Eagles, at the Bangalore Football Stadium, on Tuesday. it was Goalless at the end of regulation time, Jan van Loon’s side went down 2-4 on penalties.

Bengaluru started on the front foot, creating multiple chances through Damaitphang Lyngdoh, Thoi Singh and Sudheer Kotikala. The Blue Colts came close to finding the opener in the 13th minute when Kotikala was put through on goal by midfielder Bekey Oram, but his shot rolled wide off the post. 

Minutes later, Kamalesh found Thoi Singh in the box, but the winger’s touch was too heavy and his shot was off-target. BFC came close on multiple occasions but couldn’t find the finishing touch against a stubborn Eagles backline. 

Into the second period, the Blue Colts sent on Monirul Molla and Amay Morajkar in place of Kamalesh Palanisamy and Lyngdoh, in an attempt to add more attacking impetus. Close to the hour mark, Lalpekhlua joined the fold. Bengaluru almost scored through an outrageous attempt when Monirul and Sudheer attempted overhead kicks at the same time, but the ball went over the crossbar. 

In the 75th minute, Lalpekhlua ran down the wing and broke into the 18-yard-box before putting in a low cross for Morajkar, who connected well with the ball, but saw his effort go wide. With five minutes left on the clock, Fanai found Lalpekhlua with a defence-splitting pass. The striker took a touch and struck it goalward, but the ’keeper was there to parry it away. 

The referee blew the whistle for full-time with both teams failing to break the deadlock, signaling penalties to decide the winner. Fanai and Amay failed to score from the spot, while the Eagles scored all their attempts, consigning Bengaluru to a semifinal exit. 

The Bangalore Eagles will face Kickstart FC in the final of the Puttaiah Memorial Cup.

Bengaluru begin Durand Cup with win over Jamshedpur FC

Bengaluru FC Media

Goals in either half from Sunil Chhetri (23’) and debutant Roy Krishna (56’) gave Bengaluru FC a 2-1 win over Jamshedpur FC in their opening match of the 2022 Durand Cup, at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan, in Kolkata, on Wednesday. Defender Rishi (62’) pulled one back for the Red Miners in the second half, after Hira Mondal was sent off for a second bookable offense.

 

Earlier, Grayson handed debuts to full-backs Mondal and Prabir Das, in a Blues’ eleven that had a midfield trio of Bruno Ramires, Suresh Wangjam and Danish Farooq. Chhetri started in attack, flanked by Leon Augustine and Udanta Singh.

 

The Blues began on the offense and almost found the net in the opening minute when Leon, who skipped past a challenge, sent a low cross to find Farooq unmarked in the area. However, the midfielder’s first-time attempt was skewed wide of the mark. Moments later, Farooq saw another shot from an Udanta pass saved by Jamshedpur goalkeeper Mohit Singh Dhami before the latter’s effort on the rebound was blocked away.

 

Bengaluru scored the opener in the 23rd minute when Chhetri found himself unmarked in the area to plant an inch-perfect header from a Das corner past Dhami. The hosts had a chance of their own from a set-piece only minutes later but Farooq managed to clear away after a scramble in the Bengaluru box.

Despite several chances from open play, the Blues couldn’t add to their lead as the sides went down the tunnel with the score at 1-0. Into the second period, Grayson rang in two changes as Aussie defender Aleksandar Jovanovic and Krishna came off the bench for their debuts, replacing Ramires and Alan Costa.

Only ten minutes on, Krishna and Chhetri linked up in attack to double the Blues’ lead. Chhetri, running onto a pass from midfield that Krishna had let roll, saw his backheel fall to the Fiji international, who pushed it past the ’keeper and scored without fuss.

The Blues’ two-goal cushion, however, was short lived as Mondal was given his marching orders for a foul on substitute winger Tapan Halder. Vikash Singh’s take from the resulting set-piece was turned home by Rishi to pull one back for Jamshedpur.

Despite the deficit in personnel, Bengaluru continued to push forward for a third goal, as Namgyal Bhutia and Faisal Ali were introduced to the fold, replacing Leon and Chhetri. Krishna, now playing as a lone striker, made all the right moves in attack and proved a handful throughout the closing stages as Grayson’s men claimed three points, sending them to second on the table in Group A, behind Mohammedan Sporting.

Bengaluru next face services side Indian Air Force FT at the same venue, on August 23rd, at 6 pm.

Bengaluru begin Durand Cup campaign with Jamshedpur challenge

Bengaluru FC Media 

Bengaluru FC Head Coach Simon Grayson will take charge of his side for the first time as they take on Jamshedpur FC in their opening encounter of the 2022 Durand Cup, at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan, in Kolkata, on Wednesday. The Blues are making their third appearance at the Durand Cup, having previously bowed out of the tournament at the quarterfinal (2014) and semifinal (2021) stages.

“We’re really excited to take part in a competition that has a rich history and tradition associated with it. This is a part of our pre-season preparation, ahead of the Indian Super League, but we want to give a good account of ourselves. Playing the Durand Cup means our season will take place over a longer period this year, and we will have to make sure that we strike a right balance to maintain the fitness of all our players through the campaign,” said Grayson, ahead of the encounter.

Bengaluru’s squad for the Durand Cup includes new signings Prabir Das, Roy Krishna, Sandesh Jhingan, Javi Hernandez, Aleksandar Jovanovic, Hira Mondal, Amrit Gope and Faisal Ali, who are also part of the group of players that arrived in Kolkata on Sunday.

“We have some exciting new players and a group of really good youngsters who have come through the Academy as well. We want them to play together for as many minutes as possible, so that they can gel well and get to understand each other in a competitive environment,” added Grayson.

Jamshedpur FC, led by Youth Team coach Indranil Chakraborty, are set to field a team comprising youngsters, including India U20 goalkeeper Mohit Singh Dhami, who most recently won the U20 SAFF Championship, in Bhubaneswar.

“We’re aware that Jamshedpur FC and some other teams have registered a development squad for this tournament. We did the same last year and our youngsters did exceptionally well. We want to approach this tournament with our first team as it gives us an opportunity to be ready for what is going to be a tough season,” Grayson added.

Kick-off between the Blues and Jamshedpur FC is scheduled for 2.30 pm and will be telecast on the Sports18 network, with live streaming available on VOOT Select and Jio TV.

 

Bengaluru FC announce 25-man squad for 131st Durand Cup

Bengaluru FC Media

Bengaluru FC, on Monday, announced their 25-man squad for the 131st edition of the Durand Cup, set to begin with a clash against Jamshedpur FC at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan, in Kolkata, on Wednesday. Simon Grayson’s side, having wrapped up a three week preseason camp at the Inspire Institute of Sport in Bellary, landed in the City of Joy on Sunday. 

As many as eight new signings feature in the Blues’ squad for the tournament, with Roy Krishna, Prabir Das, Javi Hernandez, Sandesh Jhingan, Faisal Ali, Hira Mondal, Aleksandar Jovanovic and Amrit Gope making the list. Bengaluru went down on penalties to eventual champions FC Goa with a squad comprising youngsters and no foreigners, in their most recent appearance at the Durand Cup.

Bengaluru have been drawn alongside Jamshepdur FC, FC Goa, Indian Air Force FT and Mohammedan SC in Group A, with the top two teams from each group set to make it through to the knockout rounds.

SQUAD

Goalkeepers: Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Lara Sharma, Amrit Gope

Defenders: Alan Costa, Namgyal Bhutia, Parag Shrivas, Wungngayam Muirang, Prabir Das, Hira Mondal, Sandesh Jhingan, Aleksandar Jovanovic

Midfielders: Bruno Ramires, Jayesh Rane, Suresh Wangjam, Danish Farooq, Rohit Kumar, Biswa Darjee, Javi Hernandez

Strikers: Sunil Chhetri (C), Prince Ibara, Udanta Singh, Sivasakthi Narayanan, Leon Augustine, Roy Krishna, Faisal Ali 

 

Bengaluru boys go down 1-0 to Kickstart FC

Bengaluru FC Media 

Bengaluru FC suffered their  first defeat of the Puttaiah Memorial Cup against Kickstart FC, at the Bangalore Football Stadium, on Monday. The first half strike from Sharath Kumar (25’) was enough to see Kickstart pick up the victory.

In the earlier game played this noon, Roots FC defeated Kodagu FC 1-0. With Kickstart upsetting Bengaluru’s rhythm, both teams along with Roots FC from Zone B ended with 6 points. However, Bengaluru FC and Kickstart FC with a goal difference of +5 and +2 respectively made to the semis. Newbie Roots FC despite winning two games loose out by a small margin. 

It was a tight first twenty minutes, with both sides trying to break the deadlock. Bengaluru and Kickstart had their chances through routine set-pieces, but failed to make it count. Kickstart took the lead close to the half hour mark with a swift counter-attack. A quick run from Akshay saw him beat his man and put in a low cross for Sharath, who buried the opportunity.

The game was fought out in the middle of the park for majority of the first half before the referee blew the whistle for the break. Into the second half, the Blue Colts came out looking for an early equaliser, and almost found it through Akashdeep Singh, who was put through on by Bekey Oram, only for the linesman to raise his flag. 

The Blue Colts brought on Lalpekhlua, Lalhmingchhuanga, Ashik Adhikari and Monirul Molla in a bid to turn the game around. The substitutes pushed for an equaliser, but the Kickstart FC backline remained stubborn and kept the attackers at bay.

Bengaluru FC next face Bangalore Eagles in the semifinal, on 17th August, at the same venue.

 

Bengaluru FC sign defender Sandesh Jhingan

Bengaluru FC Media 

Indian Super League side Bengaluru FC, on Sunday, announced the signing of Indian international defender Sandesh Jhingan on a one-year deal, ahead of the 2022-23 campaign. The 29-year-old, who most recently turned out for ATK Mohun Bagan, joined Simon Grayson’s squad for their open training session at the Bangalore Football Stadium, and is no stranger to the club, having turned out for the Blues in a loan spell during their Federation Cup winning 2016-17 season.

“There were a few factors that made the decision to come back to Bengaluru FC easy. I’ve spent a season here before and the amount of love and support I’ve received from the fans even after I’ve left, has been very special. I’ve played at the Kanteerava more than just a few times with the national team and Bengaluru, and the atmosphere has always been electric,” said Jhingan, after completing the formalities on his deal.

The AIFF Men’s Player of the Year for 2020-21, Jhingan started his football journey at the St. Stephen’s Academy before moving to I-League 2nd Division side United Sikkim in 2011. After two seasons in Sikkim, the first of which saw the side promoted to the I-League, Jhingan had a one-year spell at Mumbai FC before signing with ISL side Kerala Blasters in 2014. From the Blasters, Jhingan made three loan spells to I-League clubs; Sporting Clube de Goa (2015), DSK Shivajians (2016) and Bengaluru FC (2017). 

“The club has built a strong team this season and has never been short on ambition. They know how to win trophies. In addition to some quality new signings, players like Chhetri bhai, Gurpreet and Udanta have been here for a while now and we’re looking good as a unit. I’ve received tremendous support from everyone at the club ever since I put pen to paper, and I cannot wait to get started and help us achieve all our targets for the season,” added Jhingan.

Jhingan has been capped at youth and senior level for the Indian National Team, having made his bow for the tricolor with India U23s at the 2014 Asian Games. Since his debut for the senior team, the center-back has made 46 appearances for India, scoring four times in the process. At club level, Jhingan has 107 appearances across seven seasons in the Indian Super League.

Club Director, Parth Jindal said, “We’ve been through a very sure process of strengthening this team with the right kind of signings, and Sandesh Jhingan fits right into our plans. He’s been a Bengaluru player once before, has won a trophy with us and has the kind of mentality, leadership qualities and fight, that this team needs at the moment. 

“We’re also glad that we could turn his signing and unveiling into a little surprise for the fans at the club’s open training session on Sunday, and going by their reaction, we know how much this means to them.” 

In 2021, Jhingan signed a five-year deal with ATK Mohun Bagan, guiding his side to the final of the Indian Super League where they would go down to Mumbai City FC. At the end of his first season, Jhingan signed a deal with Croatian Nogotmetna Liga side HNK Sibenik, making him the first Indian to play professionally in Croatia.

Jhingan represents the latest in a string of new signings by Bengaluru under Head Coach Simon Grayson, with the side having acquired the services of Javi Hernandez, Roy Krishna, Prabir Das, Hira Mondal and Aleksandar Jovanovic among others. 

Speaking on the signing, Grayson said, “We have a squad that possesses experienced leaders, and Sandesh fits right into the role. We’re glad to have him on board, and hope to use his quality and experience to help us through what we’re hoping is a successful season for this football club.” 

Bengaluru FC begin their 2022-23 campaign with a Group A clash against Jamshedpur FC in the 131st Edition of the Durand Cup, on August 17.

 

ASC beat Eagles, maintain all-win record, both move to knock-out round

Maintaining an all-win record in Zone A. ASC blanked Bangalore Eagles FC 3-1. But before both teams met in the evening, MEG and Dream United FC played an 1-1 draw, which ensured the other teams from Zone a to qualify for semi-final. 

Dream United and MEG finished the table collecting 1 and 2 points respectively, while the qualifiers to semis ASC and Eagles finished with 9 and 4 points respectively. 

Coming back to the game, ASC boys showed their keenness to score right from the begining. After the resistance displayed by Eagles' defence, ASC managed to open the account in 40th minute from Premkumar Singh. Six minutes later, in the added time, an opportunistic Tony Huidrom scored the second goal. 

Eagles got a consolation goal via Immanuel Derricks but not before ASC scored their third goal from Melem Tomthin Metei in 66th minute. 

Bengaluru FC Colts make semifinal with 1-0 win over Roots FC

A late winner from Lalremtluanga Fanai was enough as Bengaluru FC edged 1-0 past Roots FC in a Zone ‘B’ encounter of the Puttaiah Memorial Cup, at the Bangalore Football Stadium, in Bengaluru, on Saturday. The victory is the Blue Colts’ second on the trot, having beaten Kodagu FC 5-0 in the opener early on in the week.

Earlier, Jan van Loon made one change to his side as Dipesh Chauhan replaced Sharon Padattil in goal. A first half that saw majority of the action in the middle of the park saw both sides struggling to create chances. Thoi Singh came closest to breaking the deadlock when he met a cross from Sudheer Kotikala, but the winger’s shot blazed over the bar. 

Bengaluru had their best chance of the half just moments before the break when Robin Yadav’s shot from distance tested the Roots goalkeeper, but the shot was parried away to safety. Into the second period, Bengaluru came out firing and found the net within five minutes of the restart. 

Akashdeep, found deep by Thoi, sent in a cross for the forward to run onto but the side-footed attempt was off-target. Only moments later, Thoi’s freekick was tipped over the bar. The Blue Colts continued to push forward and saw another big chance go begging when Akashdeep was found unmarked in the 18-yard-box by Felixson Fernandes, with the defender's low cross met with power by the striker, but the effort was off target.

With five minutes left to play in regulation time, substitute Lalpekhlua made an instant impact off the bench, setting up Fanai with a deep cross. The winger, who skipped past his man, sent in an inch-perfect pass for the midfielder, who nodded it beyond the goalkeeper.

The Blue Colts face Kickstart FC next, on 15 August, at the same venue. 

 

ASC enter semifinal in Puttaiah Memorial

Jashandeep Singh's winner in the the added time of second half produced a late win for ASC over Dream United thus ensuring a semifinal spot in Puttaiah Memorial Cup. ASC is placed in Zone A, they defeated MEG in their first match.

 

ASC took the lead via Raj Singh in 21st minute. Former Boca Juniors, Bangalore graduate Elvis Nongtdu with two goals in quick succession in second half pulled back Dream United.  

It was ASC's Raj Singh who again came for the rescue of his team in the 88th minute. ASC came with a final strike when everyone thought that the game is heading for a draw. 

In the first game played today, Bangalore Eagles played a goalless draw against MEG.  

Tomorrow's match - Zone B

 - 2 PM: Kodagu FC Vs Kickstart FC

 - 4 PM: Bengaluru FC Vs Roots FC 

Bengaluru Colts begin Puttaiah Cup campaign with 5-0 win

Bengaluru FC Media 

Bengaluru FC begin their Puttaiah Memorial Cup campaign with a 5-0 victory over Kodagu FC, at the Bangalore Football Stadium, on Thursday. Akashdeep Singh (34’, 47’), Thoi Singh (53’), Lalhmingchhuanga (81’) and Edwin Rosario (86’) were on target for the Blue Colts.

It was a cagey first half with both teams struggling to create chances early on, but the Blue Colts broke the deadlock through Akashdeep with ten minutes left to the break. Shighil’s darting run down the wing saw him find empty space to put in a low cross for the forward, who smashed with power beyond the goalkeeper’s reach to make it 1-0.

The chances kept coming from there, but the referee blew the whistle for half-time before Bengaluru could double their lead. Into the second half, the Blue Colts ran riot, scoring from kick-off courtesy of Akashdeep once again. The forward picked up a cross from Thoi and slotted it beyond the ‘keepers reach.

Sudheer Kotikala, who made his debut in Blue set up BFC’s third of the evening. The forwards’ cross found Thoi in space and the winger capitalised with a smart finish from close range. 

Robin Yadav was brought down in the box late into the game and Lalhmingchhuanga stepped up to the occasion and struck it with power into the top left corner to make it four. With four minutes left on the clock, the goalkeeper split the ball and Edwin was there to tap it into an empty net. 

The Blue Colts face Roots FC next, on Saturday, at the same venue. 

 

Roots score upset win over Kickstart in Puttaiah Memorial

New entrants to Bangalore top division, Roots FC, created an upset of sorts in the Puttaiah Memorial defeating tournament favorite Kickstart FC by a goal this afternoon at the Bangalore Football Stadium. Vishal R latched on to a deflection from the midfield, kept his composure, and placed it home. The goal came in the added time of first half when Kickstart were constantly pressurizing Roots’ defence. 

Kickstart had a good 10-15 minutes in the beginning to test Roots’ defence, which looked shaky owing to the lack of experience in this occasion. Captain Nikhil, using his experience came to team’s rescue for few times. 

Kickstart got the best chance to equalize in the early second half from a direct free-kick at the top of Roots FCs 18-yard box, but Shelton’s powerful kick found the woodwork. Despite keeping opposition under pressure, they failed to get the equalizer. 

In another Zone B game played in the evening, Bengaluru FC boys trounced Kodagu FC 5-0. After two days (August 13), Kickstart FC will take on Kodagu FC and Bengaluru RC will play against Roots FC. 

 

Bengaluru FC announce squad for Puttaiah Memorial Cup

Bengaluru FC Media 

Newly appointed Blues’ Head of Youth Development Jan van Loon will lead the Bengaluru FC ‘B’ side set to take part in the Puttaiah Memorial Cup, scheduled to take place in two Zones, the club announced on Tuesday. 

Bengaluru FC B will face Kodagu FC in their opening encounter on Thursday, August 11th, with matches scheduled to take place at the Bangalore Football Stadium, in Ashok Nagar.

“The Puttaiah Memorial Cup has always been a special trophy for the club and we look forward to giving our best in order to bring the trophy home. The boys have been training well and I can’t wait to see them showcase what we’ve been working on in the tournament,” said Van Loon, ahead of his side’s opening match.

The squad features new signings Clarence Fernandes, Felixson Fernandes and Ankith P, who also featured in the Premier League NextGen Cup that was held in the UK, late last month. Karnataka’s own Sudheer Kotikala will also feature in Jan van Loon’s side in the Puttaiah Memorial Cup. The Blue Colts’ defender Robin Yadav will captain the Blue Colts for the tournament. 

“We’ve been tracking the progress of the boys in training, and things are looking very positive. They’re working hard as a team and everyone is fighting for a spot in the starting XI. This squad is a mix of young and experienced players, and we’re looking forward to seeing them working together,” said Kaizad Ambapardiwalla, Assistant Coach of Bengaluru FC B.

Following the opener against Kodagu FC, scheduled for 4 pm, the Blue Colts will face Roots FC on August 13th and Kickstart FC on August 15th. 

SQUAD

Goalkeepers: Athul Raj, Dipesh Chauhan, Sharon Padattil

Defenders: Tomthingganba Meitei, Vanlaltleipuia, Oinam Ronex, Ashik Adhikari, Clarence Fernandes, Rajanbir Singh, Felixson Fernandes, Robin Yadav

Midfielders: Bankit Diengdoh, Abu Swalih, F Lalhminngchhuanga, Lalremtluanga Fanai, Bekey Oram, Damaitphang Lyngdoh, Amay Morajkar, Shighil NS, Kamalesh Palanisamy, Edwin Rossario, Ajay Chhetri, Vinith V

Forwards: Ankith Padmanabhan, Lalpekhlua, Basudev CM, Monirul Molla, Akashdeep Singh, Thoi Singh, Sudheer Kotikala