ISL 2024: Mohun Bagan Super Giant vs Hyderabad FC; What To Expect
Mohun Bagan Super Giant will face Hyderabad FC in an Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 encounter on Wednesday, October 30th, 2024, at the GMC Balayogi Athletic Stadium in Gachibowli, Hyderabad, with kick-off scheduled for 7:30 pm IST. Mariners are on a winning streak as ISL champions in the previous season and try to extend their winning spree against Hyderabad FC; meanwhile, the host Hyderabad FC seeks to capitalise on its win to continue its winning in the league. Hyderabad FC Hyderabad FC go into this game with much more confidence after thrashing Mohammedan SC 4-0 in Kolkata. That was a win that ended otherwise frightening seven-match winless streak, something the side has experienced somewhat over recent seasons. Hyderabad dominated the game against Mohammedan and showed a lot about their attacking effectiveness. So, the team was actually successful in converting 36.4% of their shots into goals, which does speak about their potential at their best. Hyderabad will look to register back-to-back wins, something which the team hasn’t achieved since that great run between December 2022 and February 2023. Hyderabad FC’s forwards have looked deadly going forward but if they can repeat that kind of efficiency, that will be something else. It is very rare for Hyderabad to have managed to maintain such a high conversion rate in ISL history; they have managed it once, in back-to-back games when the conversion percentage crossed 30%. For Hyderabad, looking to play against Mohun Bagan Super Giant, they’ll look to continue their recent attacking rhythm while testing the Mariners’ defence, who have shown a great ability to dig in. Mohun Bagan SuperGiant Mohun Bagan Super Giant Approach Game with Solid Defences After winning only once in the last seven matches between them, Mohun Bagan Super Giant seems to be all set to continue their domination when they take on Hyderabad FC in today’s match. Mariners have six clean sheets against Hyderabad FC. They were able to hold two victories last season. As they look to keep their momentum going up in the league, Mohun Bagan will count heavily on consistency in open play as well as set pieces, having already scored six times from set pieces this season, the most in the league, making them very potent from dead-ball situations. This season, Mohun Bagan’s attack was a cohesive unit that kept creating chances from multiple channels, keeping opponents on their toes. However, they are going to be wary of a reinvigorated Hyderabad FC, who are capable of springing some surprises on home turf. Players To Watch Midfielder Lalengmawia Ralte, the one who with 18 tackles in the league wins this season for Mohun Bagan, one of them who has shown consistency as well and thereby providing base for the team making a difference in this season, to break up attacks of opponents and transition it forward which in turn lets him decide the tempo in the mid of the field. On the other side, Hyderabad FC defender Alex Saji has anchored his team’s defensive efforts with exceptional consistency, tallying 87 clearances this season – a league-best alongside teammate Muhammed Rafi. Saji’s knack for timely clearances has played a pivotal role in Hyderabad FC’s defensive resilience, particularly in high-pressure situations. Manvir Singh is going to be one more for the books for Mohun Bagan. He is the biggest goal-getter for them against Hyderabad. Four times he has scored for Mohun Bagan against Hyderabad-the highest by any ISL opponent against him. Still, he doesn’t have a single strike in the last seven games against Hyderabad and has eyes on him as to whether he can break the jinx. With both teams looking to consolidate their positions in the ISL standings, this Wednesday’s encounter is promised to be a thrilling affair as a resurgent Hyderabad FC takes on a Mohun Bagan side that has been delivering quality performances regularly. Hyderabad FC needs to now look to build from the victory of the recently won game and convert this attacking promise into a consecutive run whereas Mohun Bagan has to maintain their defence along with attacking well to remain on top of Hyderabad FC. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
ISL 2024: Five Countries With Most Players At ISL 2024-25
Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25, is cruising on full throttle. The clubs are fighting aggressively in all matches to hold the precious three points in the end. With an aim to complement the Indian team, each club can have six foreign players in their roster; hence it makes it imperative for the teams to splurge on talented foreign recruits and get superiority in competition. Under this scenario, we look at the top five countries, except India, that have the greatest number of foreign players involved in the ISL 2024-25 season. Countries With Most Players At ISL 2024-25 5. France – 4 players The most representatives ever from one country that has featured in the league this season is four Frenchmen: Madih Talal at East Bengal FC, Jeremy Manzorro at Mumbai City FC, Alexandre Coeff at Kerala Blasters, and Florent Ogier at Mohammedan FC. France also had legends Nicolas Anelka and David Trezeguet featured in their heydays of playing for various Indian clubs in the past seasons of the ISL. 4. Morocco – 6 players The talent pool that Morocco holds never ceases to amaze- six players represented the country in the ISL this season. Among the key performers in the country include Ahmed Jahouh, Hugo Boumous, Mohammed Ali Bemammer, Noah Sadaoui, Alaeddine Ajaraie, and Hamza Regragui. The Moroccan players have dominated at a higher percentage of 7.6% in the league. 3. Australia – 7 players The clubs in ISL are still keen on signing the Australian players even after axing the Asian foreign player rule. Seven Australians have appeared this season with a remarkable three at Mohun Bagan Super Giant: Jason Cummings, Jamie Maclaren, and Dimitri Petratos. More Australians include Jaushua Sitario, Jordan Murray, Ryan Williams, and Aleksandar Jovanovic. 2. Brazil – 7 players Brazil shares the second spot with Australia, having seven players in the ISL, representing 8.9% of the foreign players. The team has some well known players like Diego Mauricio and Cleiton Silva apart from Elsinho, Lukas Brambilla, Franca, and Andrei Alba who are all vital for their respective teams. 1. Spain – 18 players The league is topped far and away by Spain, who have 18 players representing them this season, an incredible 22.8% of the foreign player count, which makes it still one of the biggest providers of foreign talent to the ISL. And among the foreign talent, the crème de la crème is divided between the likes of Michel Zabaco, Borja Herrera, Tiri and Carlos Delgado, all of whom have played their part for their respective sides. The ISL is still attracting top talent from around the globe, and Spain, Brazil, Australia, Morocco, and France have sent the most foreign players of the season so far. These set of players play a major role in bringing a competitive level to the league, something global stars bring an international flavor to Indian football. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Indian Super League: Football’s Newest Bollywood Blockbuster
In 2014, the Indian Super League (ISL) made its debut. It’s like watching an underdog story unfold, however with more footballs and less melodrama. What started as a fledgling league has now transformed into a financial juggernaut, making the football scene in India as irresistible as a box-office hit. A Star-Studded Cast Imagine Alessandro Del Piero and Robert Pires strolling onto the field like the most glamorous cameos in a blockbuster. These legends didn’t just bring their skills; they brought the football world’s attention, turning the ISL into the hottest ticket in town. Add in some major Indian business moguls, like the JSW Group, owning Bengaluru FC and you’ve got a winning combination that even the most skeptical critics can’t ignore. Nurturing Future Stars The ISL isn’t just about glitz and glamour, it’s got heart too. Think of clubs like Bengaluru FC as the nurturing mentors in our sports drama, scouting and developing local talent who are destined for stardom. It’s like discovering the next big actor in a small-town audition and then watching them shine on the international stage. Let’s also not forget Kerala Blasters FC’s social media antics—they’re the energetic sidekick, keeping fans entertained and engaged. The Money Moves In the world of football, broadcasting deals and sponsorships are the VIP passes and the ISL has been winning these passes with style. With Star India initially backing the league and Viacom18 snatching up media rights for a whopping 550 crore over two years in 2023, the ISL is proving it’s not just a football league—it’s a financial blockbuster. Playing Through the Pandemic Plot Twist When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the ISL wasn’t about to let its story end on a cliffhanger. Instead, it pivoted like a pro, setting up matches in a bio-secure bubble in Goa. This not only kept the league alive but also earned it accolades from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), boosting its global reputation. Curtain Call So, there you have it. The ISL’s journey from a hopeful debut in 2014 to a flourishing business spectacle in 2024. It’s a reminder that with the right mix of talent, investment and a bit of flair, Indian football isn’t just playing the game—it’s rewriting the script. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
ISL 2024-25: Team Strengths, Concerns And Key Players – Part 2
The Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season is back and better than ever! Mark September 13th, 2024 as the grand return of the tournament, hailed as a spectacle of footballing fireworks. We are set for a rollercoaster of thrilling matches with rivalries that are destined to run hot. Here’s part 2 of the team previews at the ISL 2024-25 season. Punjab FC Imagine a team which reached the Durand Cup quarters with the zeal of a lion’s cub, in the hands of a coach who probably dreams in ancient Greek-the Greek maestro Panagiotis Dilmperis-managed Punjab FC saga. Luka Majcen, last season’s goal machine, will again be hunting for goals, however with the squad’s firepower looking like a damp squib, do not be surprised if they turn out to be the league’s underdogs. East Bengal Cue the dramatic music, as East Bengal is back for revenge, with Carles Cuadrat’s watchful eyes guiding the charge for glory, aided by none other than Golden Boot-wielding Dimitrios Diamantakos. But hang on-what’s this? Anwar Ali’s four-month ban is the ultimate cliffhanger this season. Will East Bengal’s defense fall apart like a deck of cards, or can they avoid the drama and make their way into the playoffs? Stay tuned! Bengaluru FC The Bengaluru FC makeover is the stuff of football fairy tales. In come Jorge Pereyra Diaz and Rahul Bheke, the new knights in shining armor. With the squad resembling it has just come off the sets of some sci-fi reboot, the big question remains as to whether Diaz-Sunil Chhetri can shape this attacking woes into an epic comeback. Playoffs? Maybe. ISL Shield? That’s the stuff of legends. Jamshedpur FC Meet the coach, Khalid Jamil, the football version of Jack, who conjured magic with a handful of beans! With Javi Hernandez in their lineup, Jamshedpur FC’s season is going to be quite an adventure. But beware-the squad depth looks as deep as a puddle of water during the monsoon season. They will be fighting tooth and nail for that playoff spot, but will their charm and tenaciousness be good enough to see them on top? Hyderabad FC The season of Hyderabad FC is shaping up to be a high-stakes drama with new faces such as Saviour Gama and Devendra Murgaonkar. This squad still appears to be finding its lines and choreography and making it into the playoffs may be like winning a wild card entry on some game show. However, of course, each blockbuster has an underdog story. Mohammedan SC Mohammedan SC are in for a rollercoaster ride under the stewardship of Andrey Chernyshov. With a squad that has undergone a bit of reconstruction, they hope to avoid the dreaded basement position. Will they turn out to be the dark horse or become casualties of the storm this season? We will get to know about it soon. Season’s Verdict: Brace for Impact As the second set of the ISL 2024-25 team previews have arrived-new dramas and thrills are going to run riot this season. With just a few new faces in the coaching box and some of India’s most storied clubs coming into the fray, each of these teams brings its own unique mix of strengths, weaknesses and star players. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
ISL 2024-25: Team Strengths, Concerns And Key Players – Part 1
The Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season is here and it’s already looking crazier than a last-minute VAR call. The teams are locked in and the fans are ready to back them. Here’s part 1 of the team previews at the ISL 2024-25 season. Mohun Bagan Super Giant Once again, they are the Goliaths everyone wants to topple. The new mastermind behind their charge? None other than Jose Molina, the coach who already has an ISL crown on his CV. With a dream team featuring dynamo Dimi Petratos and the ever-dangerous Greg Stewart, Mohun Bagan look primed to run the show. However their stunning defeat in the Durand Cup final reveals they have chinks in their armor. Do they sail through or fall on star power? Mumbai City FC If Mohun Bagan are Goliath, then Mumbai City FC are David with a sling named Lallianzuala Chhangte. The defending ISL champions lost big names like Apuia, however with the deadly combination of Jon Toral and Nikos Karelis, this ship is still cruising smoothly under Petr Kratky. Whether they would retain the silverware in the City of Dreams or get it slipped off just like that soap bar because of wet hands, the question remains. FC Goa Here comes FC Goa, led by the man who has “building champions” on his business card—Manolo Marquez. With Armando Sadiku leading the charge at the front and Iker Guarrotxena coming back for more, Goa’s plan is pretty simple: crash the top four party. With key departures looming as some unwanted referee, it is going to be one heck of a hustle. Odisha FC Odisha FC have pretty much put together an FC Goa reunion tour, bringing Sergio Lobera back to his old squad. With experience not only comes wisdom, but also the dreaded enemy of all athletes—aging legs. Will it be a case of Lobera being able to roll back the years and lead Odisha to glory, or will Father Time strike again? Kerala Blasters Let’s talk Kerala Blasters, where Adrian Luna is literally carrying the team on his back and new coach Mikael Stahre is praying that back doesn’t break. The talent of Luna is a feast to watch for the football fans, unless he gets more to support him, Kerala may struggle to keep pace with the big guns. Chennaiyin FC Chennaiyin FC is abuzz with fresh hope as Owen Coyle returns to the hot seat of managers with big plans of restoring the old glory of the club. Having experience from previously guiding the team to success, Coyle’s experience would come in handy to revive Chennaiyin this season. The team has, however, had a major rebuild this offseason. It could be that just the right mix of fresh youthful talent and more experienced players will yield the perfect blend to fashion a strong playoff push and reinvigorate their winning ways. NorthEast United The appointment of a new coach, Juan Benali, is going to herald a new era in their pursuit of excellence. After NorthEast United had to confront those lean spells for almost a season or so, with the innovative tactics of Benali, everything needs a change. NorthEast United hope that their underdog spirit may bring some surprises to the league this season. Thanks to key new signings and restructuring, they are the dark horses of the season that might well crash into the elite party, break the established pecking order and pull off an unforgettable playoff run. So, get the popcorn ready, as this ISL 2024-25 season is going to be a mouthful of goals, drama and magical football. Shall we see dominance from the Big Three or some upsets? The only sure thing is that it will be quite a ride. Stay tuned for part 2 of the team previews at the ISL 2024-25 season. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
ISL 2024-25: Who Can Take Over The Throne?
The wait is over as the Indian Super League (ISL) is back into action. The roast, after official confirmation from AIFF, will begin on 13 September 2024 with a high voltage clash between the reigning champions Mumbai City FC and last year’s runner-up Mohun Bagan Super Giant at the Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata. But hang on, with Mohammedan Sporting in the fray now, things just got spicier. So, who’s got the chops to wear the crown this time around? Well, here are the top 3 contenders that could rule the roost this season. Mohun Bagan Super Giant Well, the appetite wasn’t quite full for Mohun Bagan after winning the ISL Shield last season, as they wanted the whole buffet, which Mumbai City FC managed to snatch away in the final by beating them 3-1, thus leaving the Mariners with nothing but a silver platter. Now, under the new boss Jose Francisco Molina, the Super Giants are back, hungrier than ever. Can they turn the tables and grab their second ISL title? Keep your eyes peeled! Mumbai City FC Last season, Mumbai City FC wasn’t just about winning; they ruled with iron fists. A 3-1 victory over Mohun Bagan in the final was a tactical masterclass from Petr Kratky. They have added firepower this time, with the likes of Brandon Fernandes as their newest recruits to keep the engines purring. Can the defending champions make it three successive ISL titles? Spoiler alert: They are not slowing down. FC Goa FC Goa’s run last season was like watching an underdog movie-12 games unbeaten, flying! But, alas, a few stumbles cost them the Shield. With Manolo Marquez now at the helm of affairs and key players moving on, the work is cut out for the Gaurs. Will they defy the odds and take the title this year? Well, only time will tell, but definitely they have got some tricks up their sleeves! The ISL 2024-25 season will be a true explosion for the battle of the throne. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
ISL 2024-25: 5 Fresh-Faces Ready To Set The Field Ablaze
The Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season gets underway on 13 September, 2024 and it’s not just going to be all about the seasoned pros hogging the limelight. This season, a troop of bright youngsters is primed to take centerstage. Here’s a rundown of the top five young future stars who are about to set the turf ablaze: David Lalhlansanga (East Bengal FC) Meet David Lalhlansanga, the striker who’s hungrier for goals than a teenager on a midnight snacking spree. Having scored 21 goals and clinched the Golden Boot with Mohammedan SC, Lalhlansanga has joined East Bengal FC. While big names like Cleiton Silva and Dimitrios Diamantakos will no doubt command a starting spot in the squad, Lalhlansanga will be worth his weight in gold once he gets his shot. Expect fireworks. Mohammed Sanan K (Jamshedpur FC) Mohammed Sanan is like a live wire on the pitch, quick and so unpredictable-one can never afford to ignore him. The 20-year-old left winger had oodles of flair and creativity last season. Mohammed Sanan has already netted two in the Durand Cup and if his maiden ISL season was an example, this season may see him break through as a household name. Tekcham Abhishek Singh (Punjab FC) The teenage dynamo, Tekcham Abhishek Singh has the endurance of a marathon runner and the speed of something quicker than a cheetah. Known for his runs from right-back, Singh always gets the fans’ hearts racing. This season, though, he seems all set to play a much larger role. The teenager’s talent is expected to explode into performances that will catapult Punjab FC up the table. Vibin Mohanan (Kerala Blasters FC) Vibin Mohanan is the Kerala Blasters’ very own midfield magician. 21 years into his life, Mohanan has already sent fans into a tizzy with his ball control and spot-on passing. With Jeakson Singh off to East Bengal, Vibin Mohanan is set to become the midfield maestro Kerala fans will rally behind. There is much one can expect from this dazzling young talent. Chingambam Shivaldo Singh (Bengaluru FC) Chingambam Shivaldo Singh is the ultimate multitasker-once a defender, now a right winger with a penchant for scoring. The 20-year-old did make a decent debut last season, with one goal and an assist and is all set to make the right flank his playground this season. Watch out for Shivaldo adding some sparkle to Bengaluru’s attack. Get ready for these shining stars to take to the pitch in the ISL 2024-25 season. Buckle up, as this season is going to be a thrilling rollercoaster of emerging talent and unforgettable moments. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
