Early goals help Odisha FC edge SC Delhi

Sporting Club Delhi – 1 (Matija Babovic 74’ p)

Odisha FC – 2 (Suhair Vadakkepeedika 4’, Mafela 13’)

New Delhi, Friday, May 8, 2026: Odisha FC secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Sporting Club Delhi in their Indian Super League 2025-26 encounter at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi on Friday, May 8, 2026. Early first-half strikes from Suhair VP and K Lalrinfela (Mafela) gave Odisha FC a commanding lead, rendering Matija Babovic’s second-half penalty for SC Delhi a mere consolation. Suhair VP had a wonderful game alongside K Lalrinfela, who was deservedly awarded the Player of the Match for his outstanding overall performance in midfield. With this vital win, Odisha FC moved into 11th place, leapfrogging Chennaiyin FC and NorthEast United FC. They now have 10 points from 11 matches, while SC Delhi remains in 10th place with the same number of points from 11 matches, staying ahead courtesy of goal difference. The victory provides a massive boost to Odisha FC’s survival hopes as they continue to fight their way out of the looming relegation battle. Meanwhile, SC Delhi were left to rue their missed opportunities after completely dominating possession but failing to capitalise on their attacking metrics.

during match 30th of the Indian Super League, played between Sporting club Delhi vs Odisha FC at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi on 8th May 2026 Photo: Rahul Goyal / Focus Sports / ISLSourav K of Sporting Club Delhi in action during match 30th of the Indian Super League, played between Sporting club Delhi vs Odisha FC at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi on 8th May 2026 Photo: Rahul Goyal / Focus Sports / ISL

Joseph Sunny of Sporting Club Delhi in action during match 30th of the Indian Super League, played between Sporting club Delhi vs Odisha FC at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi on 8th May 2026 Photo: Rahul Goyal / Focus Sports / ISL

The match began with Odisha FC catching the hosts completely off guard in the opening exchanges. The Juggernauts broke the deadlock in just four minutes when an unmarked Suhair VP met a perfect cross from Sanathoi Singh Heikrujam and found the back of the net with a header to go 1-0 up. SC Delhi slowly began to claw its way back into the game, but the visitors struck again in the 13th minute after Delhi gave the ball away. Odisha midfielder Lalthathanga Khawlhring (Puitea) delivered a spot-on assist for Mafela, who produced a strong right-footed finish with a grounded shot that rolled into the bottom corner. The strike went past a diving Nora Fernandes to give Odisha FC a 2-0 lead. Trailing by two goals early on, SC Delhi gradually found its footing and began dictating the tempo. The hosts created several chances before the interval, with Lamgoulen Gou and Matija Babovic both registering shots on target, but the Odisha FC defence held firm.

Another glorious opportunity came for the hosts just before half-time in the 44th minute when Mohammed Aimen received a brilliant assist from Babovic, but failed to convert. The first half ended with Odisha FC maintaining their 2-0 advantage despite SC Delhi’s continued pressure. SC Delhi began the second half with greater aggression, introducing Julio Rivas to bolster their attack; however, they were unable to create clear-cut chances initially. Mohammed Aimen tested Odisha FC goalkeeper Anuj Kumar with an effort in the 58th minute, but the visitors managed to protect their two-goal cushion. As frustration grew, the match became increasingly physical, resulting in a flurry of tactical fouls and yellow cards. Odisha FC’s Subham Bhattacharya and goalkeeper Anuj Kumar were both booked around the hour mark as they desperately tried to disrupt the hosts’ rhythm. The game went on without much incident until the 70th minute when Odisha FC conceded a clear penalty.

OFC players celebrate goal during match 30th of the Indian Super League, played between Sporting club Delhi vs Odisha FC at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi on 8th May 2026 Photo: Rahul Goyal / Focus Sports / ISL

Mohammed Aimen of Sporting Club Delhi in action during match 30th of the Indian Super League, played between Sporting club Delhi vs Odisha FC at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi on 8th May 2026 Photo: Rahul Goyal / Focus Sports / ISL

Puitea handled the ball while attempting to clear it, resulting in a penalty for handball. Matija Babovic stepped up to take the spot-kick in the 74th minute. The forward executed a well-placed penalty with power and precision to pull a goal back for the hosts. Odisha FC found an opportunity to restore their two-goal advantage in the 79th minute. Substitute Kartik Hantal missed a massive one-on-one opportunity from point-blank range, keeping the home side in the contest. The home side threw everything forward in the closing stages in search of an equaliser, with Julio Rivas and Sourav K both forcing late saves in the 83rd and 89th minutes. As the clock ticked down, Odisha FC looked to retain possession and manage the game to protect their slender lead. Seven minutes of additional time were added, setting up a tense finale. However, Odisha FC withstood the late onslaught, maintaining their defensive discipline. Tempers flared in stoppage time, resulting in late bookings for SC Delhi’s Ousmane Fané and Clarence Fernandes. SC Delhi earned a free-kick in the dying moments of the game; however, it posed no threat to the Juggernauts, who successfully saw out the victory.

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SC Delhi aims to maintain an unbeaten home record against Odisha FC

Players warm up during match 73 of the Indian Super League, played between Sporting Club Delhi vs Punjab FC at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi, on 2nd May 2026
Photo: Rahul Goyal / Focus Sports / ISL

New Delhi, Thursday, May 7, 2026: SC Delhi will hope to maintain their unbeaten home record as they face Odisha FC in the Indian Super League 2025-26 at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi on Friday, May 8, 2026. The match will kick off at 17:00 IST and will be streamed live on FanCode and telecast on Sony Sports TEN 2. The two teams are positioned closely in the lower half of the standings, with SC Delhi in 10th place with 10 points, while Odisha is just one place above the relegation spot with seven points from 10 matches. Both sides have had a tough start; Delhi have failed to win eight of their ten games and are winless in their last three, though they remain unbeaten at home. Meanwhile, Odisha are on a six-match winless streak that includes four consecutive away defeats, having kept just one clean sheet all campaign. SC Delhi will aim to build on their recent performances following a resilient 0-0 home draw against Punjab FC last Saturday, a result that kept their unbeaten home record intact with one win and three draws in four matches.

Despite remaining unbeaten at home in their four ISL matches this season (W1, D3), SC Delhi have struggled to close out games, with three of their last four home fixtures ending in draws. In their most recent outing, they absorbed significant attacking pressure, relying on a disciplined defensive display anchored by centre-back Rafael Ribeiro to secure a clean sheet. However, missed golden opportunities from Matija Babovic, Joseph Sunny, and winger Sourav highlighted their ongoing struggles to find a cutting edge in the final third, preventing them from securing a positive result. A much-needed victory would take them to 13 points, strengthening their position and boosting squad morale. For the hosts, top scorer Matija Babović, who has four goals to his name, alongside creative left winger Mohammed Aimen, who has registered two goals and a team-leading three assists, and centre-forward Joseph Sunny, who has contributed three goals and two assists, will be key players to watch in the attacking third.

Defensively, the Delhi side will continue to rely heavily on the heroics of goalkeeper Nora Fernandes, who currently ranks first in the entire league for saves per match (3.6), and Rafael Ribeiro, who proved instrumental in neutralising attacks in their last game. Head coach Tomasz Tchórz underscored the fixture’s significance, acknowledging the threat posed by their relegation-battling opponents while confirming the team will stick to their fluid three-at-the-back formation despite recent defensive injuries. Odisha is a very experienced team. They are led by their captain, Delgado, and I expect them to be very competitive. They have fewer points than us and are fighting to stay in the league, so they will be very strong for sure,” he explained. “We started this season playing three at the back, and we will continue the same. The structure is very fluid, and we expect whoever steps into that defensive position will provide us with a strong performance.”

Warm up during match 69 of the Indian Super League, played between Sporting Club Delhi and Mohammedan SC at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi on 26th April 2026 Photo: Rahul Goyal / Focus Sports / ISL

Midfielder Isaac Vanmalsawma highlighted the positive dressing room mood and issued a rallying cry to the home supporters ahead of the final stretch. “The mood is good, and we are motivated as always. We give our 100 per cent in every training session, and for the last three matches, we can still fight for the top six,” he noted. “It’s always nice to play in front of our home fans. My message to them is to come in big numbers so that you are the 12th man. It will give immense motivation to the players to secure a good result.” Odisha FC, meanwhile, travel to New Delhi hoping to arrest a challenging run of form following a hard-fought 1-1 home draw against title hopefuls Bengaluru FC on Monday. While they secured a much-needed point in that game by effectively blocking the visitors’ chances, the Juggernauts couldn’t break their own wait for a win under head coach T.G. Purushothaman. However, they have endured a frustrating campaign overall, keeping just one clean sheet and failing to win nine of their ten fixtures. Currently on a six-match winless streak that includes four consecutive defeats on the road, they are desperate to break their barren run.

Odisha FC players warming up before the match 77 of the Indian Super League, played between Odisha FC and Bengaluru FC held at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Goa on 04th May 2026. Photo: Shibu Preman / Focus Sports / ISL

The visitors will be acutely aware of their limited margin for error at the bottom of the table. Languishing in 13th place with seven points from 10 matches (W1, D4, L5), putting them just above bottom-placed Mohammedan SC, Odisha FC could be dragged into a tense relegation battle if Mohammedan SC gets some favourable results. A vital away victory would propel them to 10 points, drawing them level with Delhi and providing a crucial lifeline to their season. Given their dreadful away form, even a draw would be considered a wonderful result in that context for the travelling fans. Nevertheless, Odisha FC will look to forward Rahim Ali as their primary threat, relying on his all-around attacking prowess, leading the team with four goals and three assists to unlock the opposition. Defensively, Carlos Delgado and goalkeeper Anuj Kumar will be vital players to watch as they look to keep the hosts at bay.

Head coach T.G. Purushothaman reflected on the positive dressing room mood and the tactical challenge posed by the hosts’ formidable home form. “Everything is going well at the moment. We are positive and ready to fight to achieve something for the club and the fans,” he said. “It will be an excellent match. SC Delhi have played very well in their home matches and possess quality players. But there is something we can use to get a positive result. We are going to fight just as we did in the last match, with more effort in the final third. ” Winger Isak Vanlalruatfela opened up about the mental toll of a difficult campaign but reinforced his motivation heading into the final stretch of the season. “This season we have faced many difficult challenges across the club, which can take a toll,” he noted. “But we cannot just look back at the last 10 matches because they are gone now. We have three matches left, and I am focused on doing my best to score or assist.” Historically, Odisha FC has utterly dominated this fixture. The Kalinga Warriors boast a flawless recent record against the capital side, having not lost to SC Delhi in their last six meetings, claiming victory in all six of those encounters.

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Blue Colts go down to Australia in AFC U17 Group D clash

India 0 lost to Australia 4 (Luke Becvinovski 4’, Max Court (29′), Luka Demuth (74′), and Henrique Oliveira (86′)).

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, May 6, 2026: The India U17 men’s national team lost 0-4 to Australia in their opening AFC U17 Asian Cup 2026 Group D encounter at the King Abdullah Sports City Pitch C on Wednesday. Australia’s high-pressure game set the tone early, as Luke Becvinovski (4’) opened the scoring before Max Court (29’) doubled the lead from the penalty spot. Second-half goals from Luka Demuth (74’) and Henrique Oliveira (86’) sealed the result for the Australians. Australia started on the front foot, not allowing the Blue Colts time to settle. In the fourth minute, Archie Mitchell delivered a precise ball from the left into the box, where an unmarked Becvinovski finished with ease to give his side an early lead. India responded positively and looked to find a way back. A well-worked move in the sixth minute saw midfielder Denny Singh deliver a cross to captain Dallalmuon Gangte, who threaded a clever through ball for Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam. The forward made a surging run into the box but fired into the side netting. Australia continued to threaten from wide areas, with Henrique Oliveira and Mitchell combining effectively on the left. Max Court came close in the 14th minute with a header, but India goalkeeper Rajrup Sarkar produced a fine diving save to keep the deficit at one.

The Blue Colts showed intent in patches, with Azlaan Shah creating openings through his dribbling, while Gangte and Denny Singh combined on the right. However, Australia’s defence held firm and limited clear-cut opportunities. Australia doubled its lead in the 29th minute after Moosa Ashiq brought down Akeem Gerald inside the box. Court stepped up and calmly slotted the penalty into the bottom corner, despite Rajrup diving the right way. India continued to push forward but struggled to find the final ball in the attacking third. At the other end, Rajrup remained alert, producing a crucial save in the 33rd minute, while defenders Shubham Poonia and Korou Meitei Konthoujam made important interventions to keep Australia at bay.

Just before the break, India created a promising move, with Gangte linking up with Washington Singh and Wangkheirakpam, but the Australian defence cleared the danger. India went into half-time trailing 0-2. The Blue Colts showed greater control after the restart, enjoying more possession and pushing Australia deeper. Denny Singh played a key role in midfield, while Gunleiba continued to impress with his direct running. India came close in the 58th minute when Gangte fired from an acute angle, but Australia goalkeeper Charlie Wilson-Papps made the save. Moments later, Rajrup rushed off his line to deny a counter-attacking opportunity, keeping India in the contest. Despite India’s improved display, Australia remained dangerous on the break. Rajrup produced a series of crucial saves, including a sharp block in the 63rd minute and another fine effort five minutes later to deny the Australians.

The Blue Colts had their best chance in the 70th minute, when a flowing move involving Gangte and Denny Singh released Azlaan Shah, whose shot was saved by Wilson-Papps. Substitute Raj Singh Wahengbam reacted to the rebound, but his header went inches wide. Australia added a third in the 74th minute, when substitute Luka Demuth struck from outside the box after being set up by Oliver O’Carroll, leaving Rajrup with little chance. India continued to search for a breakthrough but missed another opportunity in the 79th minute, as Raj Singh’s effort was saved and the rebound went unconverted. Henrique Oliveira completed the scoring in the 86th minute with a fine run from the right across the edge of the box before finishing to make it 4-0.

Despite the scoreline, the Blue Colts showed resilience and created several opportunities but were unable to capitalise on the chances. India will now face Uzbekistan in their final Group D match at the King Abdullah Sports City on Sunday, May 10, 2026, as DPR Korea, who were supposed to be the fourth team in the group, pulled out of the tournament just a few days ago. India U17: Rajrup Sarkar (GK), Shubham Poonia, Korou Meitei Konthoujam, Moosa Ashiq, Azlaan Shah (Yuvraj Sandeep Kadam 81’), Washington Singh (Raj Singh Wahengbam 46’), Dallalmuon Gangte (C), Lawmsangzuala, Md Aimaan Bin (Indra Rana Magar 46’), Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam, and Wangkhem Denny Singh (Rahan Ahmed 87’).

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Diamond Harbour chase title: Rajasthan United enter must-win territory

Kalyani, Thursday, May 7, 2026: Diamond Harbour FC will face Rajasthan United FC in a championship phase fixture of the Star Cement Indian Football League 2025-26 at the Kalyani Stadium on Friday, May 8. The kick-off is scheduled for 18:30 IST. The match will be broadcast live on DD Sports and Sony Sports Network, with streaming available on Waves and Sony LIV. Both sides head into the clash looking to return to winning ways. Diamond Harbour suffered only their second defeat of the campaign in the previous round, going down 1-2 against Sreenidi Deccan FC. Rajasthan, meanwhile, is yet to register its first win in the Championship Stage after going down 1-2 to Sreenidi Deccan and 0-1 to Dempo SC, respectively. The previous meeting between the two sides in the league stage on March 26 ended in a 1-1 draw, with Jonathan Fernandes scoring for Rajasthan and R Ramdinthara finding the net for Diamond Harbour.

Diamond Harbour currently leads the standings with 25 points from 11 matches. Shillong Lajong FC and Sreenidi Deccan are level on 21 points in second and third, respectively, while Rajasthan sit fourth with 17 points. Dempo Sports Club and Chanmari FC complete the Championship Phase table with 13 and 11 points, respectively. All six teams have played 11 matches and have three fixtures remaining, leaving a maximum of nine points available before the title is decided. The upcoming fixture carries major significance in the title race. Diamond Harbour is four points clear of Shillong and Sreenidi, and eight points ahead of Rajasthan. A win against Rajasthan would take them to 28 points and mathematically eliminate the Desert Warriors, who would then be unable to finish above the leaders with only two matches remaining. Despite the setback against Sreenidi, Diamond Harbour head coach Kibu Vicuña expressed satisfaction with the team’s preparation ahead of the contest and stressed the importance of quickly shifting focus. “We’re very happy with the training this week. We were training with intensity, with desire, and with responsibility. We want to take the points. So, I think we did our best; we gave our 100 per cent. We are focusing on the next game, and that’s all,” said Vicuña.

Victory would also move Diamond Harbour closer to the title heading into the final two rounds, while maintaining pressure on Shillong and Sreenidi, both of whom can still reach up to 30 points. A draw would move Diamond Harbour to 26 points and Rajasthan to 18, leaving Rajasthan eight points behind the leaders with two matches remaining and their title hopes hanging by a thread. A Rajasthan victory, however, would reopen the race. Diamond Harbour would remain on 25 points, while Rajasthan would move to 20 and cut the gap to five points with two rounds left. The result could also allow Shillong and Sreenidi to close further on the leaders, depending on their own outcomes. Diamond Harbour defender Ajith Kumar acknowledged the challenge Rajasthan posed in the reverse fixture and expects another closely fought encounter. “The first game we played away, so it was obviously a difficult match for us. We were one goal down, and we came back in the second half. So that is our spirit; we’ll never give up until the last minute. This game is being played at home, so that is an advantage for us. We have improved in many games, and they have gotten better as well. So it will be a tough battle for us to face them, and we are ready for the game,” he said.

Heading into the match, Diamond Harbour, the league’s highest-scoring side with 25 goals, will look for greater efficiency in the final third. Despite registering more shots on target (5) and touches inside the box (30) than Sreenidi in their previous outing, the Kolkata-based side struggled to convert chances consistently. Diamond Harbour recorded a shot conversion rate of eight per cent compared to Sreenidi’s 29 per cent. Antonio Moyano, with nine goal involvements comprising five goals and four assists, and Hugo Diaz, with four goals and one assist, remain central to Diamond Harbour’s attacking structure. Both players have consistently contributed not only with finishing but also through link-up play and chance creation in advanced areas. Jobby Justin, who has registered one goal and three assists this season, is likely to lead the line once again. Rajasthan, meanwhile, enters the fixture aiming to recover from back-to-back defeats. Assistant coach Vikas Rawat highlighted the squad’s mindset ahead of a match that could define their title ambitions.

“Focus is completely on the coming game. We have lost two games. Okay, winning and losing are part of the game. But the players are motivated. The technical staff is motivated for this game. It’s a very, very important game for us. And we hope that we come back to the winning ways,” said Rawat. For Rajasthan, improving efficiency in front of the goal remains a key focus. The Desert Warriors failed to score against Dempo despite attempting 20 shots, including eight on target. While Rajasthan continues to create opportunities regularly, converting those chances more consistently could prove decisive in the closing stages of the championship phase. Captain Bhabindra Malla Thakuri also backed the side to respond positively after their recent setbacks. “On behalf of the players, I just want to say we are very motivated. We are like a family. Winning or losing is part of the game. But I think in the last match, we played very well. But some errors: we conceded a goal. Nothing more. We will give our 100 per cent in the match,” said Thakuri.

Gerard Artigas, who has contributed five goals and one assist, remains Rajasthan’s primary attacking outlet with his ability to both score and create in transition. On the flanks, Pangambam Naoba Meitei’s crossing quality and delivery into the box could also play an important role after contributing two goals and one assist so far this season. With the championship phase entering its decisive stretch, the contest presents Diamond Harbour with an opportunity to strengthen its hold at the top, while the Desert Warriors face a must-win situation to keep their title hopes alive heading into the final two rounds.

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Young Tigresses keep faith despite Japan’s defeat and turn their focus to the decisive Lebanon clash.

Suzhou, China, 06 May 2026: India’s U17 women’s team may have fallen 0-3 to Japan in their second Group B encounter at the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup China 2026, but the response from within the camp remained measured and firmly forward-looking. The hope of reaching the knockout stage for the first time is still alive. Facing Japan for the first time at this level, a side with a decorated pedigree that includes four U17 Asian Cup titles and a World Cup title, the Young Tigresses approached the contest with a clear tactical plan, particularly in the defensive phase. Head coach Pamela Conti acknowledged the discipline shown by her players against one of the strongest teams in the world. “I think it was a very good match from our side in the defensive phase. We knew Japan was a former world champion, a four-time Asian champion, and a global powerhouse at this level. It was normal that they would push forward strongly, and we knew we would suffer at times, but we handled it well,” said Conti.

India’s structure, particularly in the first half, was a key takeaway. Despite Japan’s sustained possession and territorial advantage, clear openings, especially through the centre, were limited, reflecting the organisation and communication within the Indian backline. “In the first half, they didn’t really threaten our goal, which is what we were aiming for. We tried to push a little higher, but their strength kept forcing us back. Still, tactically we were well organised, and that was the most important thing,” Conti explained. The Italian continued her captaincy rotation policy by handing the armband to centre-back Abhista Basnett after Julan Nongmaithem led the side in the opener. The 15-year-old, youngest member of the Indian squad, shared similar thoughts on the first half.

“I would say our team was brilliant in the first half because there was no space for Japan to take a shot. We didn’t concede any shots on target in the first half. We were very compact and had good communication. So overall, we played very well in the first half,” Abhista said. However, the second half presented a different challenge. Japan’s sustained intensity and fresh legs off the bench eventually translated into goals, exposing moments where India’s transitions and defensive tracking fell short. “During transitions, we were a bit slow. We weren’t tracking the opponents on the blind side, and that was our main mistake,” Abhista admitted. Conti pointed to similar details as the difference-maker while maintaining a broader perspective on the Young Tigresses’ effort.

“In the second half, I think we also did well. It’s normal that physically we dropped a bit, unlike Japan, which maintained the same intensity. It was important for us not to concede too many goals, and that was our objective. Overall, I am happy,” she said. “Could we have done more? I think we did everything we could. There isn’t much more to ask. Maybe for the first goal, I need to review the entire play again, as there was likely a defensive error since the (Japanese) player came through the centre.” While the result leaves India without points from two matches, their campaign remains very much alive. With Lebanon up next in the final group fixture, the qualification equation is more or less straightforward — a win could be enough to secure a historic quarter-final berth as one of the best third-placed teams. India’s main rivals for the best third-place slot are Group C sides Philippines and Chinese Taipei, who have a negative goal difference of 13 and 14, respectively. They will play each other on the last matchday, which means either side will need to win by a big margin to overhaul India’s goal difference, which currently stands at -5.

Such an outcome would mark a significant milestone, as India has never progressed beyond the group stage in the history of the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup. Abhista underlined the importance of the final match and the opportunity it presents. “Now we have the last game against Lebanon. We have a good chance to qualify, so we will give our all in that game. It would be a great achievement for us to reach the quarter-finals. We are going to give everything, play better than this, and improve on our mistakes.” Conti added, “No matter what happens, I will always be proud of these players. Since January, we have been working at 100 per cent. At the end of the day, it’s football, and small details can decide things,” she said. “I always tell the players to enjoy football and to be proud of themselves because we have worked very hard, often training twice a day. They must keep their heads high. Now, our focus shifts to Lebanon.”

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Indian Goal Scorers Rise Above Foreign Dominance in ISL 2025-26

A new generation of Indian forwards is stepping out of Sunil Chhetri’s shadow and making its mark in a league long ruled by overseas strikers. New Delhi, Wednesday, May 06, 2026: The 2025-26 Indian Super League season is witnessing a subtle but significant shift. For years, the narrative around goal-scoring in the league has been dominated by foreign forwards, clinical finishers brought in to deliver results. While that trend continues, this season has introduced a refreshing counterpoint as Indian attackers step up and find the back of the net with growing consistency. At the forefront of this rise is Lallianzuala Chhangte, whose pace, directness, and improved finishing have made him one of the most influential Indian attackers this season. Alongside him, Edmund Lalrindika has emerged as a composed presence in the final third, capitalising on opportunities and showing maturity beyond his years. Together, they symbolise a growing confidence among Indian forwards who are no longer content with supporting roles. Not far behind, players like Noufal P.N., Rahim Ali and Ashique Kuruniyan are also making meaningful contributions, showcasing composure and confidence in the final third, qualities often associated with seasoned international strikers.

This rise is particularly noteworthy because it comes in an environment where Indian forwards often play second fiddle to imports. Limited game time, positional adjustments, and tactical roles have historically restricted their scoring opportunities. Yet, this season suggests a change in both mindset and execution. While Sunil Chhetri continues to be a benchmark for Indian attackers, his legacy and consistency remain unmatched; the spotlight is gradually widening. The new crop of Indian goalscorers is no longer merely supporting acts; they are beginning to influence outcomes and shape matches. Coaches and analysts have pointed to improved grassroots development, better exposure, and increased tactical awareness as key reasons behind this evolution. Clubs, too, appear more willing to trust Indian attackers in advanced roles rather than confining them to the wings or deeper positions.

The impact extends beyond individual performances. A stronger presence of Indian goal scorers adds depth to the national talent pool, offering hope for the future of Indian football at the international level. It also enhances the league’s identity, making it less reliant on foreign brilliance and more reflective of homegrown potential. As the season progresses, the question is no longer whether Indian players can score but how far they can push the boundaries. If current trends continue, the ISL may soon witness a more balanced scoring chart, where Indian names feature not as exceptions but as regular contenders.

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Substitutes inspire East Bengal’s comeback against Mumbai City FC

Mumbai City FC – 1 (Brandon Fernandes 8’) East Bengal FC – 2 (Youssef Ezzejjari 58’ p, Nandha Kumar 71’)

Mumbai, Tuesday, May 5, 2026: East Bengal FC came from behind to defeat Mumbai City FC 2-1 in Indian Super League 2025-26 at the Mumbai Football Arena, with second-half goals from substitutes Youssef Ezzejjari and Nandha Kumar, overturning Brandon Fernandes’ early strike, on Tuesday, May 5, 2026. The Red and Gold Brigade produced a strong second-half display to claim three points and move to the top of the table with 21 points from 10 matches, ahead of Jamshedpur FC on goal difference. Mumbai City FC, meanwhile, slipped to fifth with 19 points from 11 matches, suffering their first home defeat of the season. East Bengal centre-back Kevin Leonel Sibille was named the Player of the Match for his defensive performance. Petr Krátký’s side started on the front foot with early pressing, but centre-backs Sibille and Anwar Ali stood firm in the opening exchanges. Despite that, the Islanders struck first. In the 8th minute, left-back Akash Mishra’s long throw into the box created commotion, and midfielder Brandon Fernandes reacted quickest to fire a left-footed shot into the top left corner.

Nandha Kumar of East Bengal FC in action during the match 79 of the Indian Super League, played between Mumbai City FC Vs East Bengal FC at Mumbai Football Arena in Mumbai on 5th May 2026 Photo: Pratik Chorge / Focus Sports / ISL

Players of Mumbai City FC and East Bengal FC in action during the match 79 of the Indian Super League, played between Mumbai City FC Vs East Bengal FC at Mumbai Football Arena in Mumbai on 5th May 2026 Photo: Pratik Chorge / Focus Sports / ISL

Youssef Ezzejjari Lhasnaoui of East Bengal FC celebrates after scoring goal during the match 79 of the Indian Super League, played between Mumbai City FC Vs East Bengal FC at Mumbai Football Arena in Mumbai on 5th May 2026 Photo: Pratik Chorge / Focus Sports / ISL

Nandha Kumar of East Bengal FC and Youssef Ezzejjari Lhasnaoui of East Bengal FC celebrate during the match 79 of the Indian Super League, played between Mumbai City FC and East Bengal FC at Mumbai Football Arena in Mumbai on 5th May 2026
Photo: Pratik Chorge / Focus Sports / ISL

Mumbai City FC continued to create clearer openings. Around the quarter-hour mark, winger Vikram Pratap Singh surged down the right before his effort was blocked by defender Jeakson Singh. Lallianzuala Chhangte was denied a good opportunity soon after, while Vikram missed with an attempted chip following a lofted pass from midfielder Joni Kauko. East Bengal FC gradually grew into the game but struggled to break into the final third. Midfielder Mohammed Rashid forced a save from goalkeeper Phurba Lachenpa in the 28th minute, while Edmund Lalrindika and captain Saúl Crespo saw efforts go off target or blocked. Mumbai City remained the more threatening side, with Brandon testing goalkeeper Prabhsukhan Singh Gill again before the interval.

Óscar Bruzón made three attacking changes at half-time, introducing forward Miguel Figueira, striker Youssef Ezzejjari, and midfielder Souvik Chakrabarti. The impact was immediate, as East Bengal pushed higher and began to test the Mumbai City defence. The equaliser arrived in the 58th minute. Following a challenge by Kauko inside the box, East Bengal were awarded a penalty. Substitute Ezzejjari stepped up and converted with a powerful strike into the bottom corner, despite Lachenpa guessing the right way. Mumbai City attempted to respond quickly. Chhangte forced a sharp save from Gill in the 61st minute, but East Bengal held firm. Around the 71st minute, the visitors took the lead.

After a move initiated by Figueira, substitute Nandha Kumar cut in from the left and struck from the edge of the box. The effort took a slight deflection off defender Bijay Chhetri and beat Lachenpa to make it 2-1. The Islanders pushed hard in the closing stages. Jorge Ortíz tested Gill from distance, while Chhangte delivered a dangerous cross that saw substitute Gyamar Nikum hit the woodwork in stoppage time. Kauko and Ortíz both had late efforts saved or narrowly off target, but East Bengal’s defence held resolute. After an extended period of added time, East Bengal FC secured a vital away victory, completing a comeback that underlined their attacking depth and tactical flexibility.

Players of Mumbai City FC celebrates after scoring goal during the match 79 of the Indian Super League, played between Mumbai City FC Vs East Bengal FC at Mumbai Football Arena in Mumbai on 5th May 2026 Photo: Pratik Chorge / Focus Sports / ISL

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Punjab FC eye response; Chennaiyin seek all-round improvement.

New Delhi, Tuesday, May 5, 2026: Punjab FC will look to sharpen its attacking output, while Chennaiyin FC aims to restore balance at both ends of the pitch when the two sides meet in Indian Super League 2025-26 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi on Wednesday, May 6, 2026. The match will kick off at 19:30 IST and will be streamed live on FanCode and telecast on Sony Sports Network. Punjab come into the contest on the back of a goalless draw against Sporting Club Delhi, a result that not only underlined their defensive organisation but also highlighted the need for greater efficiency in the final third. Chennaiyin, meanwhile, will be intent on responding positively after a 1-4 defeat to Jamshedpur FC in their previous outing. With the season entering its closing phase, margins are tightening across the table. Punjab FC sit seventh with 15 points and could move up a place with a victory. Chennaiyin FC, currently 12th with nine points, has a significant opportunity to close the gap, with three points potentially lifting them as high as eighth.

Warm up before during match 68 of INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between Jamshedpur FC and Chennaiyin FC at the JRD Tata Sports Complex in Jamshedpur on 25th April 2026. Photo: Abhinav Ashish Aind/Focus Sports/ ISL

The head-to-head record between the two sides reflects a finely balanced contest. In four previous ISL meetings, both teams have claimed two wins each. Chennaiyin holds a slight advantage in goal returns, scoring nine to Punjab’s six. Their most recent meeting on February 15, 2025, ended in a 2-1 win for Chennaiyin. A key subplot heading into this fixture lies in the contrasting defensive records. Punjab FC has built its campaign on a solid backline, conceding just eight goals, joint-third best in the league. Chennaiyin FC, in contrast, has conceded 14 goals so far, a figure that highlights areas they will look to tighten as they seek greater consistency. This dynamic could play a decisive role, and Punjab head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis emphasised the importance of execution and decision-making across phases of play. “The game depends on our performance, our concentration. How will we execute the plan? So, we will not allow them to create these attacking patterns. We need faster and quicker decisions.”

Punjab’s ability to control games through defensive stability provides a platform, but translating that control into goals remains the next step. After being held scoreless in their last match, sharper execution in the attacking third will be a priority for the Shers. The onus will once again be on Nsungusi Effiong, the league’s third-highest scorer with seven goals, and Bede Osuji, who has contributed three goal involvements, to provide attacking impetus, while Manglenthang Kipgen, with three assists this season, will be an important presence in midfield. Effiong, who has been a key contributor in front of the goal, reiterated that the team’s collective objectives remain the primary focus as the season approaches its decisive phase. “It’s football; it’s a team sport, so the first focus is on the team. I think I would appreciate finishing in a higher position than receiving a personal award. If we can accomplish that and the Golden Boot. But for me, the focus is on the team and making sure we finish as high as possible.”

For Chennaiyin FC, the focus will be on finding the right balance between structure and attacking fluency. With seven goals so far, the second-lowest tally in the league, the Marina Machans will be keen to improve their output in the final third while maintaining greater defensive organisation. Head coach Clifford Miranda acknowledged the ongoing process of shaping the team in line with the available personnel and their strengths. “I have been trying to adapt to the players’ strengths. Because, for me, if I had to be strictly rigid about how I wanted the team to play, it would not be the way we are playing right now. Right now, I am trying to adapt to the players I have at my disposal and play to their strengths. As a coaching staff, as a group, we are trying to adapt to the players’ strengths but within the philosophy.”

Within that framework, Miranda will look for more decisive contributions from Irfan Yadwad, the only player in the squad with more than one goal this season, alongside Daniel Chima Chukwu and Imran Khan. In midfield, Alberto Noguera’s creative presence will be crucial in shaping opportunities and sustaining attacking phases. There are some encouraging signs at the back. Defender Klusner Pereira has continued his recovery and is pushing for involvement after an injury setback on debut. Reflecting on his progress and integration within the squad, Pereira emphasised his commitment to regaining full match readiness. “I am happy with my debut. I had to get off injured with a minor injury. I am giving my best every day in the practice session as well. It’s been good working with this team. There are so many good players. It is a good competition within the team as well. I work hard every day to get back to the team.” With Punjab’s defensive resilience set against Chennaiyin’s efforts to achieve greater cohesion across the pitch, the contest presents an intriguing tactical equation. For the hosts, it is about converting control into tangible outcomes; for the visitors, it is about refining structure while unlocking attacking potential, factors that could ultimately shape the result on the night.

SHILPANEER NEWSPAPER

Gokulam Kerala FC target revival as confident Aizawl FC eye firm grip on survival race

Hyderabad, Monday, May 4, 2026: Gokulam Kerala FC will face Aizawl FC in a relegation stage fixture of the Star Cement Indian Football League 2025-26 at the Deccan Arena on Tuesday, May 5. The kick-off is scheduled at 18:30 IST. The match is scheduled to kick off at 18:30 IST and will be broadcast live on DD Sports and Sony Sports Network, with streaming available on Waves and Sony LIV. With the league stage complete, the competition now moves into a decisive round-robin phase involving the bottom four teams. Each side has already played one match and will play two more, with the bottom two teams set to be relegated. Aizawl entered the contest high on confidence after a 2-1 win against Namdhari FC. Gokulam, meanwhile, will look to respond after a 0-3 defeat to Real Kashmir FC. The People’s Club leads the Relegation Phase standings with 12 points and will aim to strengthen its position. Gokulam sits on eight points and is in the relegation zone. A win would take them to 11 points, level with second-placed Real Kashmir.

Despite Aizawl’s current advantage, Gokulam holds the psychological edge from their last meeting, a 4-2 win on March 31. In a high-pressure relegation scenario, that result underlines both Gokulam’s attacking potential and the unpredictability of this contest. Defensively, Aizawl remains vulnerable, having conceded a league-high 23 goals. Centre-backs Timur Talipov and Rohmingthanga will need to improve organisation, with Laldanmawia and H Lalrempuia operating as full-backs. Gokulam is likely to target these weaknesses through Thabiso, who has four goal involvements this season (two goals and two assists), leading the line. He will be supported by Moses Lalrinzuala and Rahul on the wings, with the latter contributing four goal involvements (three goals, one assist). Mirjalol Kasimov and Shighil Nambrath will form the midfield pivot, while Vitor Barata operates as the primary creator in the No. 10 role.

Gokulam’s own defensive record, however, is also a concern. They have conceded 21 goals this season, second only to Aizawl, placing added responsibility on Sachu Siby, Bouba, Athul Unnikrishnan, and Nidhin Krishna to maintain organisation at the back. With Aizawl conceding 23 goals and Gokulam 21, both sides bring defensive frailties into a fixture defined by fine margins. While Aizawl aims to build on momentum and tighten its grip at the top, Gokulam faces a more pressing task: translating attacking promise into points while stabilising a backline that could determine their survival.

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Young Tigresses brace for stern test against Japan in AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup

Suzhou, China, May 4, 2026: India’s journey in the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup 2026 now moves into a far sterner phase, as the Young Tigresses prepare to face Japan in their second match of Group B on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 17:00 IST at the Suzhou Taihu Football Sports Centre, Pitch 4. The match will be streamed live on the AFC Asian Cup YouTube Channel. After a 0-2 defeat to Australia in their opening Group B fixture, India find themselves in a position where every goal matters. Goal difference is crucial, and a couple of double-digit scorelines popped up on the first matchday, including Japan’s 13-0 win over Lebanon. In Group C, DPR Korea defeated Chinese Taipei 10-0. Earlier on Tuesday, Australia will face Lebanon in the other Group B game.

Standing in India’s way next is one of the most technically refined sides in world football at this level. In the nine U17 Women’s Asian Cups contested so far, Japan has made the final seven times and won it on four occasions. The Little Nadeshiko were also FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup champions in 2014. Japan may arrive as clear favourites, but Young Tigresses head coach Pamela Conti stated that her girls will approach the contest with a clear mindset. Speaking to the-aiff.com after the official training session on Monday morning, she said, “We’ve just finished training, and we are quite excited because we are going to play against one of the strongest teams in the world. “I, as a coach, and the players as well, believe that we need to play a perfect match if we want to win. But beyond that, just being there, experiencing it, and enjoying the game is also important. I will definitely enjoy it.”

India’s preparation for the tournament has been extensive, with over three months of continuous training, including trips to Myanmar and Russia. The physical challenge posed by teams like Russia and Australia has already offered valuable reference points, and the focus now shifts to dealing with Japan’s speed and technical precision. “The message to the players has been clear throughout training. We cannot just defend. If we let them have the ball without pressure, it will be very easy for them to find spaces and create one-on-one situations,” Conti explained. “We need to stay strong. We know their strengths. They will try to push us back as much as possible. But we need to stay higher up the pitch so that we can show that we are there and not make it easy for them.” For the Young Tigresses, the emphasis is also on building a long-term competitive mentality, regardless of the opposition. “Our mentality should never change. Whether you play against the best team or the lowest-ranked team, it’s always about three points. It’s important to build a winning mentality, and you develop that by playing these kinds of demanding matches.”

said Conti.

“It’s also important for the players to be able to say in the future, ‘I played against Japan back then.’ That experience matters,” the Italian added. Right-back Divyani Linda explained how there’s a shared sense of anticipation within the squad, while also stressing the need for sharper execution after the Australia game. “The feeling is good. We are excited because it’s our first time playing against a team like Japan. They are a tough side, but we believe we can do well too,” said the 17-year-old who has four goals and four assists in her youth international career for India. India’s defensive structure held for large parts against Australia, but individual errors proved costly. That’s an area the team is keen to address immediately. “We need to improve from the last game and avoid the mistakes we made. Our team is good; everyone has quality. Maybe we are not as physically strong, but we play well with our minds and our understanding of the game. In the last few games (against Australia and Russia), we’ve conceded goals from our errors, so we need to avoid those and perform better,” said Divyani. Japan’s style, built on quick combinations and fluid movement, demands sustained concentration and technical discipline, something India is preparing specifically for. “Mentally, against a team like Japan, we have to stay focused. They play very quick, short-passing football and create chances that way. So we also need to play more on the ground, keep our passes short, and stay composed,” Linda added.

SHILPANEER NEWSPAPER

পি.সি. চন্দ্র জুয়েলার্স এর মূল সংস্থা, পি.সি. চন্দ্র গ্রুপ, ভারতীয় সাহিত্য জগতের এক উজ্জ্বল নক্ষত্র শ্রী জাভেদ আখতার কে ৩৩তম পি.সি. চন্দ্র পুরস্কারে সম্মানিত করল / P.C. Chandra Group, the parent company of P.C. Chandra Jewellers, conferred the 33rd P.C. Chandra Puraskaar upon Shri Javed Akhtar. The poetic luminary of the Indian literary world.

কলকাতা, ৩রা মে ২০২৬: ৮৫ বছরেরও বেশি সময়ের ঐতিহ্য বহনকারী এবং পূর্ব ভারতের অন্যতম শীর্ষস্থানীয় ব্যবসায়িক প্রতিষ্ঠান পি.সি. চন্দ্র গ্রুপ তাদের স্বনামধন্য বিলাসবহুল গয়নার ব্র্যান্ড ‘পি.সি. চন্দ্র জুয়েলার্স-এর মাধ্যমে কলকাতায় আয়োজিত এক জমকালো অনুষ্ঠানে কিংবদন্তি শব্দশিল্পী জাভেদ আখতার কে মর্যাদাপূর্ণ ৩৩তম পি.সি. চন্দ্র পুরস্কারে সম্মানিত করল। পি.সি. চন্দ্র গ্রুপ প্রবর্তিত এই পুরস্কারটি বিভিন্ন ক্ষেত্রে অসামান্য কৃতিত্বকে স্বীকৃতি জানায় এবং এর দূরদর্শী প্রতিষ্ঠাতা শ্রী পূর্ণ চন্দ্র চন্দ্রের ঐতিহ্যকে সম্মান জানায়। ২০ লক্ষ টাকার করমুক্ত সম্মানীসহ এই পুরস্কারটি দেশের অন্যতম শ্রদ্ধেয় সম্মাননা হিসেবে বিবেচিত হয় এবং প্রতি বছর প্রতিষ্ঠাতা শ্রী পূর্ণ চন্দ্র চন্দ্রের জন্মবার্ষিকীতে এটি প্রদান করা হয়। ১৯৯৩ সালে প্রতিষ্ঠার পর থেকে, এই পুরস্কারটি গ্র্যান্ডমাস্টার বিশ্বনাথন আনন্দ, নোবেলজয়ী কৈলাশ সত্যার্থী, প্রবীণ সঙ্গীতশিল্পী শ্রীমতি আশা ভোঁসলে, ডা. দেবী শেঠি, শ্রী কপিল দেব, ওস্তাদ আমজাদ আলি খান, শ্রীমতি মেরি কম, শ্রী সোমনাথ এস. এবং শ্রী লিয়েন্ডার পেস-সহ দেশের বহু বরেণ্য ব্যক্তিত্ব কে সম্মানিত করেছে।

এই অনুষ্ঠানে বক্তব্য রাখতে গিয়ে পি.সি. চন্দ্র জুয়েলার্স-এর জয়েন্ট ম্যানেজিং ডিরেক্টর, শ্রী সুভ্র চন্দ্র বলেন, “আজ আমরা ৩৩তম পি.সি. চন্দ্র পুরস্কারের মাধ্যমে জাভেদ আখতার কে সম্মানিত করছি—এটি এমন এক স্বীকৃতি, যা শ্রেষ্ঠত্ব, ঐতিহ্য এবং সুদীর্ঘ প্রভাবকে উদযাপন করে। একজন কবি, গীতিকার ও চিত্রনাট্যকার হিসেবে তাঁর সৃষ্টিশীলতার জাদু প্রজন্মের পর প্রজন্মকে প্রভাবিত করেছে এবং ভারতীয় চলচ্চিত্র ও সাহিত্যকে সমৃদ্ধ করেছে।” তিনি আরও বলেন, “পি.সি. চন্দ্র গ্রুপ-এর মূল দর্শনের মতোই—যা দীর্ঘস্থায়ী গল্প, মাইলফলক এবং বিশেষ মুহূর্তগুলোকে উদযাপন করে—তাঁর কাজও সময়ের গণ্ডি অতিক্রম করে মানুষকে অনুপ্রাণিত করে চলেছে, হৃদয়ে গভীর অনুরণন সৃষ্টি করছে এবং অমর হয়ে রয়েছে। তাঁকে সম্মানিত করতে পেরে আমরা নিজেদের অত্যন্ত সৌভাগ্যবান মনে করছি।” এই সন্ধ্যার অনুষ্ঠানটি প্রধান অতিথি হিসেবে উপস্থিত থেকে অলঙ্কৃত করেন জাতীয় পুরস্কারপ্রাপ্ত প্রখ্যাত চলচ্চিত্র পরিচালক শ্রী গৌতম ঘোষ। তাঁর পাশাপাশি উপস্থিত ছিলেন পি.সি. চন্দ্র গ্রুপ-এর ম্যানেজিং ডিরেক্টর শ্রী অরুণ কুমার চন্দ্র, পি.সি. চন্দ্র জুয়েলার্স-এর জয়েন্ট ম্যানেজিং ডিরেক্টর শ্রী সুভ্র চন্দ্র এবং ডিরেক্টর শ্রী প্রসেনজিৎ চন্দ্র।

পি.সি. চন্দ্র গ্রুপ পূর্ব ভারতের একটি শীর্ষস্থানীয় ব্যবসায়িক গোষ্ঠী। তাদের ফ্ল্যাগশিপ ব্র্যান্ড পি.সি. চন্দ্র জুয়েলার্স-এর মাধ্যমে গহনা শিল্পে ৮৫ বছরেরও বেশি সময় ধরে বিশ্বাস ও গ্রাহক আস্থার এক সমৃদ্ধ ঐতিহ্য গড়ে তুলেছে এই গ্রুপ; বর্তমানে সারা ভারতজুড়ে তাদের ৭৫টিরও বেশি শোরুম রয়েছে। গহনা শিল্পের পাশাপাশি আঠা, রাসায়নিক দ্রব্য, আতিথেয়তা, সফটওয়্যার, পরিবেশগত উদ্যোগ, আবাসন, রাবার চাষ এবং ভাড়াসেবা-সহ বিভিন্ন খাতে গ্রুপটি তাদের কার্যক্রম সম্প্রসারিত করেছে। বিশ্বজুড়ে ভোক্তা ও বিশিষ্ট গ্রাহকদের কাছে সুদৃঢ় সুনাম ও আস্থা অর্জনকারী এই সংস্থা একটি সামাজিকভাবে দায়বদ্ধ প্রতিষ্ঠান, যা নানা কর্পোরেট সামাজিক দায়বদ্ধতা (সিএসআর) উদ্যোগে সক্রিয়ভাবে প্রতিশ্রুতিবদ্ধ। এই উদ্যোগগুলোর মধ্যে উল্লেখযোগ্য হলো—জে.এল. চন্দ্র মেধা বৃত্তি, জে.এন. চন্দ্র অনুপ্রেরণা, জ্ঞানধারা, নিম বনানি এবং #স্টপ দ্য ড্রপ; যেগুলোর মূল লক্ষ্য শিক্ষা, পরিবেশ ও জনসমাজের উন্নয়ন সাধন।

Kolkata, 3rd May 2026: P.C. Chandra Group, an 85-plus-year legacy and one of the leading business houses from the East, with its esteemed luxury jewellery brand P.C. Chandra Jewellers, conferred the prestigious 33rd P.C. Chandra Puraskaar upon the legendary wordsmith Shri Javed Akhtar at a grand ceremony in Kolkata. Instituted by the P.C. Chandra Group, this award recognises exceptional achievements across diverse fields, honouring the legacy of its visionary founder, Shri Purna Chandra Chandra. The Puraskaar, carrying a tax-free honorarium of ₹20 lakhs, is among the most respected honours and is awarded annually to the founder, Shri Purna Chandra Chandra, on his birth anniversary. Since its inception in 1993, it has celebrated national icons, including Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand, Nobel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi Ji, veteran singer Smt Asha Bhosle, Dr Devi Shetty, Shri Kapil Dev, Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, Smt Mary Kom, Shri Somanath S, Shri Leader Peas, among others.

Speaking at the occasion, Mr Suvro Chandra, Joint Managing Director of P.C. Chandra Jewellers, said, “Today, we honour Shri Javed Akhtar with the 33rd PC Chandra Puraskaar — a recognition that celebrates excellence, legacy, and enduring impact. Through his words as a poet, lyricist, and screenwriter, he has shaped generations and enriched Indian cinema and literature.” He also added, “Much like the ethos of PC Chandra Group — celebrating stories, milestones, and moments that last — his work continues to inspire, resonate, and live on through time. We feel privileged to honour him.” The evening was also graced by the presence of Chief Guest Shri Goutam Ghosh, the renowned national award-winning film director, along with Shri Arun Kumar Chandra, Managing Director of P.C. Chandra Group; Mr Suvro Chandra, Joint Managing Director of P.C. Chandra Jewellers; and Mr Prosenjit Chandra, Director of P.C. Chandra Jewellers.

P.C. Chandra Group is a leading business conglomerate from East India, with a legacy of 85-plus years of trust and customer loyalty in jewellery through P.C. Chandra Jewellers, having over 75 showrooms across India. The Group has diversified into various sectors, including adhesives, chemicals, hospitality, software, environmental initiatives, real estate, rubber plantations, and rental services. With a strong reputation and trust among global consumers and prestigious clients, P.C. Chandra Group is a socially responsible corporation committed to numerous CSR initiatives. These include the J.L. Chandra Merit Scholarship, J.N. Chandra Anuprerna, Gyandhara, Neem Banani, and #StopTheDrop, focusing on education, environment, and community development.

SHILPANEER NEWSPAPER

East Bengal defeat Gokulam Kerala, maintain perfect IWL 2025-26 record

Kolkata, Sunday, May 3, 2026: East Bengal FC continued their dominant run in the Indian Women’s League 2025-26 with another victory on Sunday, May 3, 2026, while SETHU FC and Kickstart FC Karnataka also secured three points apiece. Nita Football Academy, meanwhile, played out a stalemate against Garhwal United FC.

East Bengal FC – 2 (Fazila Ikwaput 6’, 65’) Gokulam Kerala FC – 1 (Shubhangi Singh 70’)

East Bengal FC maintained their unbeaten streak with a 2-1 win against Gokulam Kerala FC at the East Bengal Ground. The hosts made an early breakthrough in the sixth minute, when Fazila Ikwaput latched onto a long ball and produced a composed volley, chipping it over the advancing goalkeeper from outside the box. East Bengal controlled possession for large parts of the first half, dictating the tempo, while Gokulam Kerala had their share of the ball but could not find a way through before the break. The second goal came in the 65th minute when Resty Nanziri cut in from the left and set up Ikwaput centrally. The forward finished with precision into the bottom corner to double the lead.

Gokulam pulled one back from a corner in the 70th minute after East Bengal goalkeeper Elangbam Chanu spilt the ball, allowing Shubhangi Singh to react quickest and slot home. Despite late efforts from both sides, East Bengal held on for the win. The Moshal Girls remain unbeaten at the top of the table with 27 points, while Gokulam Kerala FC are fifth with 10.

SETHU FC – 2 (Sumati Kumari 12’, S Lynda Kom 20’)

Sribhumi FC – 1 (Philomena Abakah 38’ p)

SETHU FC registered a 2-1 victory against Sribhumi FC at the East Bengal Ground earlier in the day. The opening goal came in the 12th minute when Nirmala Devi delivered a long ball into the box, and Sumati Kumari rose to head it into the net. Sribhumi pushed for an equaliser but was denied by a disciplined SETHU defence. The lead was extended following a loose ball situation, where Sumati Kumari’s attempt was blocked by goalkeeper Anjila Tumbapo Subba before S. Lynda Kom reacted quickest to slot home. Sribhumi reduced the deficit in the 37th minute after Veronica Appiah was brought down inside the box. Philomena Abakah converted the penalty to make it 2-1. Both sides created chances in the second half, but neither could add to the scoreline as SETHU held on for the win. SETHU FC are second in the standings with 19 points from nine matches, while Sribhumi FC are fourth with 10 points.

SESA Football Academy – 0

Kickstart FC Karnataka – 3 (Emem Peace Essien 16’, Saru Limbu 27’, TH Babysana Devi 66’ p)

Kickstart FC Karnataka secured a 3-0 win against SESA Football Academy at the AIFF National Centre of Excellence. Kickstart took the lead in the 16th minute when TH Babysana Devi’s long ball found Kiran Pisda on the right, who delivered a cross for Emem Peace Essien to finish from close range. The advantage was doubled in the 27th minute as Pisda drove forward before setting up Saru Limbu, who placed her shot into the bottom right corner. In the 66th minute, Essien was fouled inside the box, resulting in a penalty. Babysana Devi stepped up and converted to seal the result. The win takes Kickstart to sixth place with 10 points from nine matches, while SESA Football Academy remains at the bottom with one point.

Nita Football Academy – 0

Garhwal United FC – 0

Nita Football Academy and Garhwal United FC played out a goalless draw at the AIFF National Centre of Excellence. Both sides were unable to find a breakthrough despite their efforts, resulting in a share of the points. Nita FA remains third in the table with 15 points, while Garhwal United FC is seventh with eight points.

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Sreenidi Deccan edge Diamond Harbour in top-of-the-table clash

Diamond Harbour FC – 1 (Hugo Díaz 62’ p) Sreenidi Deccan FC – 2 (Brandon Vanlalremdika 44’, David Castañeda 49’+5)

Kalyani, Sunday, May 3, 2026: Two well-taken first-half goals by Brandon Vanlalremdika and David Castañeda ensured Sreenidi Deccan FC secured three points against league leaders Diamond Harbour FC in the Star Cement Indian Football League 2025-26 at the Kalyani Stadium in Kalyani on Sunday, May 3, 2026. The Deccan Warriors took the lead in the 44th minute through a brilliant free-kick by Brandon Vanlalremdika and doubled the lead in added time of the first half through David Castañeda. Hugo Díaz reduced the deficit in the second half with a penalty conversion. With the crucial win, Sreenidi Deccan took their points tally to 21 and are third, while Diamond Harbour remain top with 25 points. Brandon Vanlalremdika was adjudged player of the match.

Diamond Harbour was reduced to ten men within the opening 45 seconds on Sunday. Afolabi was shown a straight red card for a dangerous challenge on Sreenidi Deccan midfielder Ajay Chhetri. Contesting a 50-50 ball, the Nigerian midfielder caught Ajay high on the ankle with his boot, leaving the referee with little option but to send him off. Despite being reduced to ten men, Diamond Harbour dominated possession and continued to look threatening in attack. Ramdinthara tested Kamaljit Singh with a powerful left-footed effort, but the shot was straight at the goalkeeper. Moments later, Mikel Kortazar drilled in a low cross at the end of a set-piece routine, but it was deflected away before it could reach Jobby Justin. The home side created the best chance of the half just before the drinks break. Jobby shrugged off his marker to create space inside the box from a cross on the right wing, and the ball fell kindly for Hugo Díaz, whose effort was brilliantly saved by Kamaljit Singh, with the 31-year-old goalkeeper showing sharp reflexes to push the shot over the crossbar.

Sreenidi Deccan, who had struggled to create chances for most of the half, needed a moment of brilliance just before the break to take the lead. Brandon Vanlalremdika, who had won the free-kick after being brought down by Kortazar, stepped up and curled a superb effort into the top-right corner beyond the diving reach of Dheeraj Singh. The Deccan Warriors doubled their advantage in first-half stoppage time through David Castañeda. The Colombian drove forward with the ball into the box and, with the defenders backing off, unleashed a powerful strike that flew past the goalkeeper and into the back of the net. Diamond Harbour began the second half on the front foot as they looked to cut down the two-goal deficit. They were handed a lifeline at the hour mark when a penalty was awarded after Hadi Idrissou handled the ball inside the box. Hugo Díaz stepped up to take the penalty and converted with a powerful strike past Kamaljit Singh. Kibu Vicuña responded immediately after the goal with a triple substitution, introducing Bryce Miranda, Paul Ramfangzauva, and Kevin Ademola to add fresh energy in attack. The changes had an immediate impact as Antonio Moyano combined well with Bryce and Ademola, with the latter unable to keep his header down from Bryce’s cross.

The Deccan Warriors opted to sit deep inside their own half in the final quarter of the game, inviting pressure as Diamond Harbour increased their attacking intent in search of an equaliser. This time, the numerical disadvantage became evident, with the home side often looking a man short in attacking areas despite pushing numbers forward. Jobby came close with a header, but the striker directed his effort wide of the post, while substitute Lalliansanga Renthlei saw his long-range strike whistle narrowly past the target. Bryce Miranda, who looked lively down the left flank after coming on, delivered a wonderful cross for Ademola in the final minute of regulation time, but the Colombian’s effort was palmed away by Kamaljit Singh. Diamond Harbour continued to pump crosses and long balls into the box, but Sreenidi Deccan defended resolutely throughout the closing stages. Kamaljit Singh also commanded his area well, frequently coming off his line to claim crosses and ease the pressure on his defence. In the end, the Deccan Warriors held on to secure three crucial points and close the gap on the league leaders.

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Odisha FC aim to snap winless streak against Bengaluru FC

Bhubaneswar, Sunday, May 3, 2026: Odisha FC will hope to end their winless streak as they take on Bengaluru FC, who will hope to maintain their unbeaten away record in the Indian Super League 2025–26 at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar on Monday, May 4, 2026. The kick-off is scheduled for 15:00 IST. The match will be streamed live on FanCode and telecast on Sony Sports TEN 2. Odisha FC, playing on their home turf, will aim to bounce back following a 0-3 defeat against East Bengal FC in their latest outing. They are currently enduring a five-match winless streak, having registered one draw and four defeats in that span. Their campaign thus far has yielded just one victory, three draws, and five defeats, with a tally of nine goals scored and 17 conceded, exposing defensive vulnerabilities. Currently sitting 13th with six points from nine matches, they are desperately seeking a win to steer clear of the bottom spot and avoid entering a relegation battle as the league enters its business end. A much-needed victory would take them to nine points. Head coach T.G. Purushothaman highlighted the need to remain positive and improve their clinical edge to turn their season around.

Bengaluru FC Players warming up during match 67 of INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between Bengaluru FC and Mumbai City FC at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru on 25th April 2026. Photo: Baranidharan M / Focus Sports / ISL

“It’s a part of my profession to make everything positive again and fight back for victories. We are all focused on returning to this performance level,” he explained. “We are creating chances, but conversion is the problem. If we give a half-chance to a quality team, they will punish us. If we convert those chances, the entire scenario will change.” Odisha FC player K Lalrinfela shed light on the positive dressing-room atmosphere despite the recent challenges. “We prepared well over the last couple of days, although we faced many challenges. But at the end of the day, it’s our job, and we have to try our best,” he noted. “The atmosphere is good, so we’ll try to get three points. We have had many good chances that we could not convert; we’ll try to improve in those areas, and I think we are not afraid of relegation at all.”

Bengaluru FC, meanwhile, travel to Bhubaneswar in a much more favourable position, hoping to consolidate their top-half status following a resolute goalless draw against Mumbai City FC. Their campaign features four wins, four draws, and only two defeats, alongside a positive record of 14 goals scored and 10 conceded. Their competitive spirit has been especially evident in their last five fixtures, where they have recorded two wins, two draws, and just a single defeat. The visitors will be acutely aware of their limited margin for error at the top of the table. Bengaluru FC will aim to exploit Odisha FC’s defensive frailties and capitalise on their unbeaten away form, boasting three wins and one draw with no defeats on the road this season.

Odisha FC players warming up before match 75 of the Indian Super League, played between East Bengal FC and Odisha FC held at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Goa on 28th April 2026. Photo: Shibu Preman / Focus Sports / ISL

Currently sitting sixth with 16 points from 10 matches, a vital away victory would propel them to 19 points, drawing them level with third-placed FC Goa and fourth-placed Mumbai City FC, putting pressure on the teams above them. Head coach Pep Muñoz highlighted his tactical approach while maintaining that the team is taking it game by game rather than focusing on the table. “If we win the three games in hand, let’s see in which position we will be. But we are more focused on how we want to play, the performance of the players, game style, and improving our overall game,” he said. “We want to have possession of the ball, break lines, and finish moves better than we did against Mumbai. Obviously, we have to pay attention to counter-attacks because Odisha FC have good footballers up front who can create chances.”

Goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu reflected on the team’s attractive brand of football and the need to remain alert at the back. “You want to play not just for results but also present a good product of football to our fans, and that’s what our coach Pep has instilled in us,” he noted. “As a goalkeeper, it’s important to stay alert and aware of every situation. Odisha has players who can hurt opponents. I just need to make sure that during our possession of the ball, we are also aware of their offensive threats.” Both sides share a similar head-to-head record. In their 16 previous ISL encounters, Odisha FC and Bengaluru FC have claimed seven victories each, with just two matches ending in draws. The Blues hold a marginal edge in goals scored, netting 26 times compared to the Kalinga Warriors’ 24. Odisha FC boasts a significant advantage in their last five meetings, registering four wins and one draw, while Bengaluru FC has yet to secure a victory during this period. Their most recent clash in January 2025 ended in a thrilling 3-2 away victory for Odisha FC in Bengaluru. Mohammedan SC would welcome a victory for Bengaluru FC, as it would inject fresh life into their fight against relegation, given they remain the only side below Odisha FC in the points table. Ultimately, the tactical approaches of both managers will be pivotal in determining the outcome of this compelling fixture.

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Real Kashmir FC eyes safety, Namdhari faces mounting pressure

Hyderabad, Sunday, May 3, 2026: Real Kashmir FC will look to secure the win to confirm safety from relegation as they face Namdhari FC in the Star Cement Indian Football League 2025–26 at the Deccan Arena on Monday, May 4, with kick-off scheduled for 18:30 IST. The match will be broadcast live on DD Sports and Sony Sports Network, with streaming available on Waves and Sony LIV. With the league phase concluded, the competition has now moved into a high-stakes round-robin involving the bottom four sides. Each team has already played one match and will play two more, with the side finishing bottom facing relegation, raising the competitive intensity of every remaining fixture. Real Kashmir arrive with momentum firmly on their side after a commanding 3-0 victory over Gokulam Kerala FC, with the help of goals from Shedrack Charles, Mohammad Inam, and an own goal from Vitor Barata. In contrast, Namdhari comes into this encounter on the back of a 1-2 defeat to Aizawl FC, and the psychological contrast between the two camps could prove significant.

That opening win moved Real Kashmir to 11 points from 10 matches, and another victory tomorrow would take them to 14 points, making it impossible for bottom-placed Namdhari to finish above them in the standings. Meanwhile, Namdhari has no margin for error, and with only two matches remaining in the season, anything other than a win would severely dent their hopes of survival. However, the earlier meeting between the two sides offers a counter-narrative. Namdhari secured a narrow 1-0 win in the league phase on March 25, courtesy of Seilenthang Lotjem’s decisive strike. From a tactical standpoint, Real Kashmir head coach Ishfaq Ahmed is unlikely to deviate from a winning formula. The attacking burden will once again fall on Shedrack Charles and Mohammad Inam, who are expected to lead the line as a striking duo. Charles, in particular, represents the most significant threat to Namdhari’s defence, having registered six goal involvements this season, three goals and three assists, underlining both his finishing ability and creative influence in the final third.

Support from wide areas will be critical, with Marius Obekop, another key contributor with four goal involvements, three goals, and one assist, and Ateeb Ahmed Dar expected to operate on the flanks, stretching Namdhari’s defensive structure. For Namdhari, the primary concern remains their defensive vulnerability. They ended the league stage with the joint second-worst defensive record, having conceded 18 goals, a statistic that becomes particularly concerning against a Real Kashmir side carrying attacking momentum. Ultimately, Namdhari’s attacking output may hinge on Manvir Singh, who leads their scoring chart with three goals this season. He is likely to spearhead the attack alongside Rohit, and his ability to convert limited opportunities could prove decisive in a match where chances may not come frequently. With form, confidence, and momentum on their side, Real Kashmir appear better positioned heading into this contest. However, Namdhari’s prior win in the fixture and the high-pressure dynamics of a relegation battle ensure that the margin between control and collapse remains razor-thin.

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Diamond Harbour FC eye decisive stride; Sreenidi Deccan FC test title credentials

Kalyani, Saturday, May 2, 2026: League leaders Diamond Harbour FC will look to move within touching distance of the title when they host Sreenidi Deccan FC in a championship phase fixture of the Star Cement Indian Football League 2025–26 at the Kalyani Stadium on Sunday, May 3, with kick-off scheduled for 18:30 IST. The match will be broadcast live on DD Sports and Sony Sports Network, with streaming available on Waves and Sony LIV. With the league stage concluded, the competition has entered its decisive championship phase, a round-robin involving the top six, in which the side with the highest points tally will be crowned champions. Diamond Harbour’s campaign to date has been defined by control and consistency, reflected in their position atop the standings with 25 points, while Sreenidi sits third on 18 points from the same number of matches.

Both sides arrive in form. Diamond Harbour registered a composed 2–0 win over Chanmari in their previous outing, with Antonio Moyano Carrasquilla and R Ramdinthara on the scoresheet. Sreenidi, meanwhile, edged Rajasthan United FC 2–1, courtesy of goals from Hadi Idrissou and David Castaneda Munoz. From a title-race perspective, the equation is clearer and more urgent for Sreenidi. A victory would lift them to 21 points and potentially into second place, trimming the gap to four points with three matches remaining. For Diamond Harbour, the incentives are even more immediate: a win would take them to 28 points and could mathematically secure the title, contingent on Shillong Lajong FC dropping points against Chanmari FC. Despite Diamond Harbour’s dominance, this fixture carries a compelling sub-plot. Their only league defeat this season came against Sreenidi in the reverse meeting on February 28, when Fabrice Kah Nkwoh struck the decisive goal, offering the visitors both belief and a working template.

Diamond Harbour head coach Kibu Vicuña, however, has stressed the importance of staying grounded despite his side’s position at the summit. “We didn’t win the championship yet. We still have points to play. We have to respect every team. And also, we know how football is. It’s very unpredictable. So, we are only focused on the next game. We are in a good moment, but we know that it was very costly. We worked hard to be in this situation, and we have to keep going. Nothing more.” That outlook reflects a side aware that, despite a seven-point cushion and just one defeat all season, the margins in the Championship Phase remain fine, particularly against an opponent that has already beaten them once. Goalkeeper Dheeraj Singh echoed a similar sentiment, highlighting the psychological dynamic of leading the table. “For us, to be honest, we are seven points ahead. Whichever team we’re going to play, even [Sreenidi], [Rajasthan], or [Shillong], they will come up with all of us because they have nothing to lose, but we have something to lose. And most importantly, we have to be humble and keep our feet on the ground; we’re not yet the champions. So, same preparation, same approach. Hopefully, we deliver the same result.”

The contest is likely to be shaped by a classic strength-versus-strength dynamic. Diamond Harbour boasts the most potent attack in the league, having scored 24 goals, but there remains a degree of uncertainty around their attacking spearhead. Luka Majcen is recovering from a knock sustained in the previous game and will be assessed closer to kick-off, meaning his involvement may depend on late fitness clearance. Sreenidi, however, counters with one of the most resilient defensive units in the Championship Phase, having conceded just nine goals across the campaign. Their structure is compact and disciplined, but they are also preparing for the tactical complexity of Diamond Harbour’s approach. Sreenidi head coach Carlos Vaz Pinto outlined the scale of the challenge. “Confidence alone is not enough; we must bring commitment to compete against the team leading the table. With the right commitment and confidence, we believe we can get the three points. They are an offensive team with a clear style—they try to dominate and play positively. They haven’t changed much in personnel, but tactically, they now use more than one system. Even when they change systems, their playing style remains the same. When they lose the ball, they press aggressively. If they have space, they attack fast. Defensively, they are strong, but we feel we can score against them.”

Sreenidi will also draw confidence from their previous meeting but remain cautious about reading too much into that result. Sreenidi Deccan player Lalbiakliana emphasised the need for a complete performance. “It will be a very tough match—they are a very good team with strong structure and quality players. We beat them before, but that doesn’t mean anything for tomorrow. We need to bring our top game, mentally and physically. Preparation has been very good; training sessions have been intense and focused. We’ve worked on how the coach wants us to play, and we hope to deliver.” That perspective reflects a measured approach from Sreenidi, acknowledging past success while reinforcing the need for tactical discipline and execution against a side that has otherwise dominated the league. However, with three points imperative, Sreenidi cannot afford to be purely reactive. Their attacking responsibility will fall on David Castaneda Munoz and Brandon Vanlalremdika, who will need to capitalise on transitions, particularly if Diamond Harbour commits numbers forward. Ultimately, the outcome may hinge on whether Sreenidi’s defensive discipline can once again frustrate the league’s most productive attack—or whether Diamond Harbour, even with a potential reshuffle in their forward line, can find enough attacking solutions to take a decisive step towards the title.

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Parthib Gogoi’s late strike helps NorthEast United edge Inter Kashi.

NorthEast United FC 3 (Jithin MS 45+2’, Andy Rodríguez (63′), Parthib Gogoi (90′)

Inter Kashi 2 (Sergio Llamas 71’, Mohammed Asif 82’)

NEUFC celebration after scoring a goal during match 72 of the Indian Super League, played between North East United FC and Inter Kashi FC at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati on 2nd May 2026 Photo: Surajit Sharma / Focus Sports / ISL

IKFC celebration during match 72 of the Indian Super League, played between North East United FC and Inter Kashi FC at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati on 2nd May 2026 Photo: Surajit Sharma / Focus Sports / ISL

NEUFC celebration during match 72 of the Indian Super League, played between North East United FC and Inter Kashi FC at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati on 2nd May 2026 Photo: Surajit Sharma / Focus Sports / ISL

Guwahati, Saturday, May 2, 2026: NorthEast United FC secured a dramatic 3-2 victory against Inter Kashi in Indian Super League 2025-26 at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium, with Parthib Gogoi’s late strike sealing all three points in a pulsating contest on Saturday, May 2, 2026. Jithin MS had given the Highlanders the lead on the stroke of half-time. At the same time, Andy Rodríguez doubled the advantage from the penalty spot before Inter Kashi staged a spirited comeback through Sergio Llamas and Mohammed Asif. The result sees NorthEast United FC move up to 10th in the standings with 10 points from 11 matches, while Inter Kashi remain eighth with 11 points from 10 outings. Jairo Samperio was named the Man of the Match for his influential display, playing a key role in two of the three goals.

Inter Kashi made the brighter start, dominating possession in the opening exchanges and testing the NorthEast defence with a series of long-range efforts. Midfielders Asif and Tomba Singh both went close early on, while striker Alfred Planas Moya and full-back Rohit Danu combined well down the right, though the visitors lacked precision in the final third. NorthEast United gradually grew into the contest, with Jairo Samperio emerging as a constant threat. The Spaniard came close on multiple occasions, striking the post in the 38th minute before being denied in a one-on-one by Inter Kashi keeper Shubham Dhas. Just as the first half appeared destined to end goalless, Jairo produced a brilliant run down the right, beating two defenders before cutting the ball back for Jithin MS, who finished emphatically into the top corner to hand the hosts the lead in stoppage time. The Highlanders carried that momentum into the second half, controlling possession and dictating the tempo. Their pressure paid off in the 61st minute when Jairo once again broke into the box, drawing a foul from centre back Wayne Vaz, who was shown a red card. Andy Rodríguez stepped up and calmly converted the resulting penalty to make it 2-0.

Sumeet Passi of Inter Kashi FC and Asheer Akhtar of North East United FC during match 72 of the Indian Super League, played between North East United FC and Inter Kashi FC at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati on 2nd May 2026 Photo: Surajit Sharma / Focus Sports / ISL

Despite being reduced to ten men, Inter Kashi responded with resilience. Sergio Llamas pulled one back in the 71st minute with a well-struck free-kick that curled into the bottom corner, shifting the momentum in the visitors’ favour. They continued to push forward and were rewarded in the 82nd minute when Mohammed Asif capitalised on a loose ball inside the box to slot home the equaliser. With the game finely poised, both sides searched for a decisive goal. NorthEast United found it in the 90th minute, as substitute Parthib Gogoi drove into the box from the right and produced a composed finish into the bottom corner to restore the lead and spark celebrations among the home supporters. Inter Kashi threw bodies forward in the closing stages but was unable to find another breakthrough, as NorthEast United held firm to secure a crucial win.

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Late goals against FC Goa take Jamshedpur FC to the top of the ISL

Jamshedpur FC – 2 (Mohammed Sanan 83’, Madih Talal 90+6’) FC Goa – 0

Jamshedpur, Friday, May 1, 2026: Jamshedpur FC secured a crucial 2-0 victory against FC Goa in Indian Super League 2025-26 at the JRD Tata Sports Complex on Friday, May 1, 2026. After a goalless first half dominated by Jamshedpur, Mohammed Sanan broke the deadlock in the 82nd minute before Madih Talal sealed the win deep into stoppage time. The Red Miners moved to the top of the table with 21 points from 11 matches, while FC Goa slipped to third with 19 points. Talal was named the Player of the Match for his commanding display in midfield and decisive late goal. Jamshedpur FC head coach Owen Coyle named an unchanged side following their 4-1 win over Chennaiyin FC. FC Goa head coach Manolo Márquez made one enforced change, bringing in midfielder Mohammed Yasir in place of the injured Dejan Dražić. The match began with FC Goa seeing more of the ball. In the opening minute, forward Muhammed Nemil tested goalkeeper Albino Gomes from distance. Play was briefly halted due to a thunderstorm before resuming with Jamshedpur gradually asserting control. The hosts created better chances as the half progressed. Around the 24th minute, winger Mohammed Sanan forced a low save from goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari, while midfielder Lalhriatpuia Chawngthu and defender Nikhil Barla both went close from range. Midfielder Madih Talal, influential throughout, saw a header drift wide before testing Tiwari again just before the half-time break.

Madih Talal of Jamshedpur FC goal celebration during match 71 of INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between Jamshedpur FC and FC Goa at the JRD Tata Sports Complex in Jamshedpur on 1st May 2026. Photo: Abhinav Ashish Aind/Focus Sports/ ISL

during match 71 of INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between Jamshedpur FC and FC Goa at the JRD Tata Sports Complex in Jamshedpur on 1st May 2026. Photo: Abhinav Ashish Aind/Focus Sports/ ISL

Raphael Eric Messi Bouli of Jamshedpur FC taking a header during match 71 of INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between Jamshedpur FC and FC Goa at the JRD Tata Sports Complex in Jamshedpur on 1st May 2026. Photo: Abhinav Ashish Aind/Focus Sports/ ISL

Madih Talal of Jamshedpur FC scoring during match 71 of INDIAN SUPER LEAGUE played between Jamshedpur FC and FC Goa at the JRD Tata Sports Complex in Jamshedpur on 1st May 2026. Photo: Abhinav Ashish Aind/Focus Sports/ ISL

Jamshedpur continued to dictate play after the restart, with Talal and Nikola Stojanović controlling the midfield. FC Goa struggled to build sustained attacks, though Nemil and Yasir both tested Gomes from distance around the hour mark. Owen Coyle introduced midfielder Rei Tachikawa in the 74th minute, a move that proved decisive. Shortly after, striker Messi Bouli came close with a header from a set-piece. The breakthrough arrived in the 83rd minute. From a corner delivered by Talal, Tachikawa’s header bounced inside the six-yard box, and Sanan, with a cheeky flick from between Goa’s defender Boris Singh’s legs, put the ball inside the goal to give Jamshedpur the lead. FC Goa pushed forward in search of an equaliser, but Jamshedpur remained composed at the back. In the sixth minute of added time, Bouli’s aerial ball caused problems in the Goa defence as substitute Ronney Willson missed to clear the ball, and Talal capitalised on the loose ball with a precise strike from outside the box to seal the result. Jamshedpur FC held firm in the closing moments to secure a vital win and take control at the top of the table.

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Big stage, brave hearts: Young Tigresses ready for U17 Asian Cup return against Australia

Suzhou, China, Friday, May 1, 2026: Saturday will mark another landmark moment of the year for Indian women’s football as the U17 national team kicks off their AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup China 2026 campaign against Australia on May 2 at 17:00 IST. The match will be streamed live on the AFC Asian Cup YouTube Channel. It will be India’s first appearance at the U17 Women’s Asian Cup since 2005, marking the end of a 21-year wait at this level. More significantly, it completes a rare and historic sequence in 2026, with India’s third women’s Asian Cup appearance following the senior team and the U20 side. Head coach Pamela Conti underlined the mood in the camp as the team stands on the cusp of their opening match. “I think everyone is excited and really eager for it to start,” she said. “We’ve been working for a long time, for many months. But it’s always a great feeling to play in important international tournaments, especially representing a big, big country like India. So yes, we are ready for it.”

© Mikhail Shapaev / The Russian Football Union

India’s journey to this stage saw a structured and continuous build-up. Since January, the Young Tigresses have been in camp for over three months, primarily based in Bengaluru, focusing on physical, technical, and tactical development. They arrive in China after a series of competitive tours – winning the SAFF U19 Women’s Championship in February, securing two victories against fellow Asian Cup qualifying side Myanmar in Yangon in March, and testing themselves in the three friendly games against Russia in Sochi in April. “The first few days it rained a lot, and it got cold,” Conti said about their arrival in Suzhou. “But now the sun is out. I think the players just needed to make some final adjustments because we have already done a lot of work in India and in Russia. Now we are ready.” The focus, lately, has been on the details, explained the Italian coach, who previously led Venezuela to the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.

“We’ve mostly been working on the tactical side, because the physical work had already been done earlier. We didn’t want to push too hard physically in these last few days so that the players don’t feel too heavy.” The tournament in Suzhou has brought all 12 participating teams together in a single environment, housed at the Taimei Xiangguli Hotel and training and playing at the Suzhou Taihu Football Sports Centre – a facility with eight pitches (three match pitches and five training grounds) – located just a stone’s throw away. “Honestly, it’s been perfect,” she said. “Today, it’s beautiful with plenty of sunshine. Hopefully tomorrow has the same temperature, because it’s ideal for playing,” Conti said on the eve of the opener. For the players, this tournament represents both a first experience and a defining opportunity. The journey didn’t just begin in January but covered a better part of 2025 when the majority of this batch of players showcased excellent performances in the Asian Cup qualifiers, the SAFF U17 Women’s Championship, and also the IWL U17 with the Indian Arrows Women Juniors.

Reflecting on everything, defender Abhista Basnett said, “We are finally here after preparing for so many months. We are just one day away from our first game. “The feeling is very good. We are excited, and we will give our all. We have trained a lot over the past few months and worked very hard, so we are going to give our all out. “The magnitude of the occasion is not lost on the squad, but it’s more about excitement than nervousness. “Yes, it feels very different because this is our first time at the Asian Cup. It’s been 21 years for India, so it’s a new feeling. We are excited because we are playing against top teams not just in Asia but in the world,” said Abhista, who even played an exhibition match with the Indian senior national team in her home state of Sikkim last year. Sharing her thoughts on Australia, she said, “As we know, they are a very physical team, so we need to prepare ourselves accordingly. But we are not any less than that. We are going to give our all and fight against them.”

India’s recent friendlies against Russia offered insights to the Young Tigresses on dealing with quality opposition. “In Russia, we learned a lot. They were also a very physical team, so we understood how to play against such opponents. Even though we lost the games, we learnt a lot, and those friendlies will help us in this Asian Cup.” For Abhista, the journey has also included personal milestones, like being named captain in the third friendly in Russia, despite being the youngest member of the squad at just 15. “It was the first time for me wearing the captain’s armband, and it felt special. It was a different feeling to lead the team from the front,” said Abhista, who would still be eligible for the next two U17 Asian Cups. The Young Tigresses are also drawing inspiration from the senior and U20 teams, both of whom ended two-decade-long waits to feature in continental competitions earlier this year. “We also watched the senior and the U20 team play. Both teams didn’t give up, even after losing their first and second games. That is something we can learn from them.

“Now it’s our chance to show our courage and the hard work we have put in. The senior and U20 teams both played well but didn’t qualify. I hope we can do that.” Midfielder Julan Nongmaithem, who captained India in both qualifying matches in Kyrgyzstan last year and also scored a last-minute winning goal against the hosts, echoed that sense of readiness and responsibility. “It feels really good to be here. We have been preparing for this for a long time, and now, finally, the day has come. We have to prove why we trained so hard. “I’m also very excited because this is my first time playing in a big tournament like the Asian Cup. It’s a great opportunity, and we want to show that we are capable of performing at this level,” added Julan, who is the only member of the U17 squad with a senior cap to her name, earned in a friendly against Nepal last year. “Our training has been going well. Right now, we are fully focused on how to win. The coaches and support staff are helping us a lot, and we are really enjoying the training sessions. The facilities here in Suzhou are very good. The ground, the gym – everything is excellent. We are getting great preparation,” the 15-year-old said. “Australia is a very tough team, but we also want to play tough football. The coach has told us to go in strong, make tackles, and play without fear. We have to be brave and give our 100 per cent,” shared Julan.

SHILPANEER NEWSPAPER

Shillong Lajong look to keep alive title hopes with a win over Chanmari

Shillong, Friday, May 1, 2026: Shillong Lajong FC will face Chanmari FC in a championship phase fixture of the Star Cement Indian Football League 2025-26 at the SSA Stadium in Shillong on Saturday, May 2, with kick-off scheduled for 18:30 IST. The match will be broadcast live on DD Sports and Sony Sports Network, with streaming available on the Waves App and Sony LIV. Both sides have endured a tepid start to this phase and will be eager to return to winning ways. While Chanmari fell 0-2 to leaders Diamond Harbour FC in their previous outing, Shillong Lajong were held to a goalless draw by Dempo SC.

The stakes are considerably higher for Shillong Lajong in the context of the title race. The Red Dragons sit second in the standings with 18 points, and a victory is imperative if they are to remain within touching distance of the summit. With Diamond Harbour holding a seven-point cushion and only four matches remaining, Shillong’s margin for error is minimal. Chanmari, by contrast, are effectively out of title contention and will be playing for pride and the highest possible finish. They occupy fifth place with 11 points and cannot improve their position even with a win, given the six-point gap to Rajasthan United FC in fourth.

Shillong will also draw confidence from their previous meeting, where they secured a 2-1 win during the league phase on March 19. Phrangki Buam scored a brace for the hosts, while P Christopher Kamei netted Chanmari’s solitary goal. Coupled with the advantage of home support, that result further strengthens Shillong’s belief heading into this encounter. The hosts possess one of the most potent attacking units in the competition. Everbrightson Sana Mylliempdah has registered six goal contributions (four goals and two assists), while Buam has five (four goals and one assist), underlining their influence in the final third. With Gladdy Nelcen Kharbuli and Damaitphang Lyngdoh providing midfield control, alongside Ephraim Lalremtluanga offering width on the right flank, Shillong will look to exploit gaps in a Chanmari defence that has conceded 17 goals—the highest among teams in the Championship Phase.

Chanmari’s backline, therefore, faces a stern examination. Shillong’s tally of 16 goals makes them the second-highest scoring side in this phase, behind Diamond Harbour. To withstand that threat, the centre-back pairing of Marlon De Almeida Rangel and Lalrinchhana Tochhawng will need to deliver a disciplined performance, supported by full-backs Zothanpuia and F. Malsawmtluanga. In attack, much of the creative responsibility will rest on Kamei, who has five goal contributions (two goals and three assists) this season, while J Lalruatsanga, with three goals, will spearhead the frontline.

As the championship phase gathers momentum, this fixture presents a clear divergence in objectives. For Shillong Lajong, it is a must-win encounter to sustain their title push and maintain pressure on the leaders. For Chanmari, it represents an opportunity to restore pride, influence the standings, and conclude their campaign on a competitive note. With contrasting stakes yet a shared urgency to respond after underwhelming starts, the contest is poised to be an engaging battle in which precision, discipline, and execution will likely prove decisive.

SHILPANEER NEWSPAPER

In-form Punjab FC look to continue upward momentum against SC Delhi; NorthEast United face Inter Kashi

Guwahati/New Delhi, Friday, May 1, 2026: NorthEast United FC will seek a vital home victory as they face Inter Kashi in their Indian Super League 2025-26 match at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium on Saturday, May 2. The match will kick off at 17:00 IST. Later in the evening, Sporting Club Delhi will host Punjab FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, with kick-off slated for 19:30 IST. Saturday’s double-header presents a fascinating contrast in objectives, as the Highlanders fight desperately to stave off the threat of relegation, while the Shers aim to bolster their push for the league title. Both fixtures will be streamed live on FanCode and telecast on Sony Sports TEN 2.

NorthEast United FC vs Inter Kashi

NorthEast United FC will aim to bounce back following a 0-2 defeat against FC Goa in their previous outing. Despite promising attacking bursts from Jithin MS and substitute Parthib Gogoi, the Highlanders were ultimately undone by strikes from Dejan Dražić and Mohammed Yasir. Despite their recent struggles, the Highlanders possess enough firepower to mount a fierce survival bid against Inter Kashi. Currently sitting 12th with seven points from 10 matches, NorthEast United FC is desperately seeking a win to steer clear of relegation. A victory would take them to 10 points, providing a crucial lifeline to their campaign. For the hosts, Jithin MS and Parthib Gogoi will be key players to watch, having shown bright attacking intent in their previous outing.

Head coach Juan Pedro Benali underscored the fixture’s significance, urging his players to absorb the pressure and play without fear. “With three games remaining, this is our most important fixture. We need to return to that mental calmness and a fresh winning mentality,” he said. “Don’t be afraid. Fear makes you nervous and anxious. Just be yourself and enjoy the game; I am responsible for the result.” NorthEast United FC player Mohammed Ashraf expressed his motivation ahead of the contest. “The competition is very tough, but I give everything on the training pitch,” he noted. “I am happy because the coach trusts me and gives me opportunities, and I feel great.” Inter Kashi, meanwhile, arrive looking to arrest a recent dip in form following a 0-3 defeat to Punjab FC. Despite early saves from goalkeeper Lluis Tarrés and promising midfield link-up play between Alfred Planas and Sergio Llamas, the newly-promoted side struggled to convert their chances and were punished at the back.

The visitors will be acutely aware of their limited margin for error and will seek an immediate response to keep pace with the teams around them. Currently sitting eighth with 11 points from nine matches, a vital away victory would propel them to 14 points, drawing them level with seventh-placed Punjab FC and establishing them comfortably in mid-table. Inter Kashi will look to the midfield duo of Alfred Planas and Sergio Llamas, relying on their creative link-up play to unlock the opposition.

players warm up during match 63 of the Indian Super League, played between Punjab FC and Inter Kashi FC at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi on 20th April 2026 Photo: Rahul Goyal / Focus Sports / ISL

Players warm up during match 65 of the Indian Super League, played between North East United FC and FC Goa at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati on 24th April 2026 Photo: Surajit Sharma / Focus Sports / ISL

Head coach Antonio López Habas highlighted the challenge of playing away and the importance of game management. “All teams have urgency. Playing at home increases the chances of winning by around 25 per cent, and unfortunately, we haven’t had that advantage for two years,” he said. “A football match is a game of moments. If we control them well, we will have a better chance of winning.” Defender Nishu Kumar reinforced the squad’s motivation and his pride in representing the region. “It’s a privilege to represent Uttar Pradesh and Kashi. We have trained hard all week,” he added. “We are highly motivated and hope to secure a positive result against NorthEast.”

Sporting Club Delhi vs Punjab FC

Sporting Club Delhi will target a return to winning ways at home following a 2-2 draw against Mohammedan SC in their previous outing. The capital side twice took the lead through a brace from Matija Babovic, including a 17th-minute penalty won by Mohammed Aimen, but were pegged back and forced to share the spoils. Currently 10th with 9 points from 9 matches, Sporting Club Delhi can climb as high as 8th with a win. A victory would take them to 12 points, strengthening their mid-table position, provided other results are favourable. Fresh off a brace, forward Babovic and creative midfielder Aimen will be key players to watch, alongside Joseph Sunny, who leads the club with five goal contributions this season.

Sporting Club Delhi assistant coach Noel Joseph embraced the excitement of the ‘North Indian Derby’ and the challenge of facing an in-form opponent. “Punjab FC are in excellent form, but we have proven we can surprise opponents,” he said. “We are unbeaten at home and want to keep our fortress intact. Derbies always provide extra motivation.” Midfielder Ousmane Fane reflected on the team’s mentality ahead of the fixture. “We have a positive feeling and expect to win every game,” he said. “The staff maintains a great atmosphere, and tomorrow we will try from the first minute to secure victory. This is the mentality in Delhi.”

Punjab FC, meanwhile, travels to New Delhi hoping to consolidate its top-half status following a clinical 3-0 victory over Inter Kashi. The Shers were dominant in attack, with Effiong Nsungusi Jr, Bede Osuji, and Player of the Match Samir Zeljković all finding the net. With the team firing on all cylinders, head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis will be targeting a continuation of this positive run. Despite possessing potent attacking options, Punjab FC will need to break down Delhi FC’s structured defence. Currently sitting seventh with 14 points from eight matches, a win would take the Shers to 17 points, significantly boosting their League Shield ambitions. Zeljković, Osuji, and the prolific Nsungusi, who has seven goals to his name, will be key players to watch as Punjab FC look to maintain their clinical edge in the final third.

Dilmperis delivered a candid assessment of the ‘North Indian Derby’ and the unique pressure his side faces. “It’s a difficult game against a good team. We share the same playing style and stadium, so it doesn’t feel like an away match,” he explained. Delhi have the advantage as they’ve almost met their season targets, whereas we want to climb higher. The pressure is on us to secure these three crucial points. Forward Osuji shed light on the dressing room atmosphere heading into the business end of the season. “The mood has been the same since we played Jamshedpur; we are all hungry to do more and be better,” he noted. “We want to carry this momentum to the end of the season, especially in this crucial phase.”

Historically, Punjab FC has enjoyed dominance in this fixture. In their four previous ISL encounters (including Delhi’s history as Hyderabad FC and FC Pune City), the Shers are unbeaten with three victories and one draw, while Sporting Club Delhi are yet to register a win. Their most recent clash in March 2025 ended in a commanding 3–1 away victory for Punjab FC in Hyderabad. With crucial points at stake at both ends of the table, Saturday promises to be a defining day in the ISL season. NorthEast United FC face a must-win battle to secure survival in the top flight, while Punjab FC will look to capitalise on their momentum and accelerate their pursuit of the league.

SHILPANEER NEWSPAPER

মণিপাল হসপিটালস কলকাতা এগিয়ে এলো প্রবীণ নাগরিকদের ভোটদান সহজ করতে / Manipal Hospitals Kolkata Steps Up to Help Senior Citizens Cast Votes with Ease

কলকাতা, ২৯ এপ্রিল ২০২৬: নির্বাচনের দিনে কলকাতা জুড়ে যখন নাগরিকরা বড় সংখ্যায় তাঁদের গণতান্ত্রিক অধিকার প্রয়োগ করতে অংশ নেন, তখন মণিপাল হসপিটালস কলকাতা সবার অংশগ্রহণ নিশ্চিত করার লক্ষ্যে নিজেদের অঙ্গীকার আরও একবার তুলে ধরলো। বয়স বা শারীরিক সমস্যার কারণে যাতে কেউ ভোটদান থেকে বঞ্চিত না হন, তা নিশ্চিত করতে হাসপাতালের পাঁচটি ইউনিট—ইএম বাইপাস, মুকুন্দপুর, ঢাকুরিয়া, সল্টলেক এবং ব্রডওয়ে—সম্পূর্ণ প্রস্তুত ছিল। প্রবীণ নাগরিকদের নিরাপদ, স্বাচ্ছন্দ্যময় ও মর্যাদাপূর্ণভাবে ভোটদান নিশ্চিত করতে এই বিশেষ উদ্যোগ নেওয়া হয়।

প্রবীণ ভোটারদের চলাচল ও স্বাস্থ্যজনিত সমস্যার বিষয়টি বিবেচনায় রেখে মণিপাল হসপিটালস কলকাতা একটি বিশেষ উদ্যোগ নেয়, যেখানে প্রতিটি এলাকার জন্য একজন করে দায়িত্বপ্রাপ্ত যোগাযোগ ব্যক্তি (SPOC) নিযুক্ত করা হয়। তাঁরা বাড়ি থেকে ভোটকেন্দ্র পর্যন্ত এবং সেখান থেকে ফেরত আসা পর্যন্ত পুরো যাতায়াতের ব্যবস্থা করেন, যাতে পুরো প্রক্রিয়াটি হয় ঝামেলাহীন। পাশাপাশি, MARS অ্যাম্বুলেন্সগুলি ভোটকেন্দ্রের বাইরে প্রস্তুত রাখা হয়। সেখানে হুইলচেয়ার ও স্ট্রেচারের ব্যবস্থা ছিল এবং প্রশিক্ষিত ডাক্তার ও নার্সদের দল উপস্থিত থেকে প্রয়োজনীয় চিকিৎসা সহায়তা প্রদান করেন। যেসব প্রবীণ নাগরিক শয্যাশায়ী ছিলেন, তাঁদের চিকিৎসা তত্ত্বাবধানে MARS অ্যাম্বুলেন্সে করে ভোটকেন্দ্রে নিয়ে যাওয়া হয়, যাতে তাঁরাও মর্যাদার সঙ্গে ভোটাধিকার প্রয়োগ করতে পারেন।

নিজের অভিজ্ঞতা জানিয়ে বৈরাগী বৃদ্ধাশ্রমের গোপা চৌধুরী বলেন, “৮৪ বছর বয়সে ভোট দিতে যাওয়া সহজ নয়, কিন্তু আমি যেকোনো পরিস্থিতিতেই আমার অধিকার প্রয়োগ করতে চেয়েছিলাম। মণিপাল হসপিটালসের সহায়তায় পুরো প্রক্রিয়াটি খুবই সহজ, নিরাপদ ও স্বস্তিদায়ক হয়ে উঠেছিল। বাড়ি থেকে যাতায়াতের ব্যবস্থা থেকে শুরু করে ভোট দিয়ে বাড়ি ফেরা—সবকিছু অত্যন্ত যত্ন ও সহানুভূতির সঙ্গে পরিচালিত হয়েছে। এই উদ্যোগ আমাকে আত্মবিশ্বাস ও মানসিক শান্তি দিয়েছে, যাতে আমি এত গুরুত্বপূর্ণ একটি গণতান্ত্রিক প্রক্রিয়ায় অংশ নিতে পেরেছি। আমাদের মতো প্রবীণ নাগরিকদের মর্যাদা ও স্বাচ্ছন্দ্যের সঙ্গে ভোট দিতে সক্ষম করার জন্য আমি সত্যিই কৃতজ্ঞ।”

এই উদ্যোগ সম্পর্কে মন্তব্য করতে গিয়ে ডা. অয়নাভ দেবগুপ্ত, রিজিওনাল ডিরেক্টর-ইস্ট রিজিয়ন, মণিপাল হসপিটালস, বলেন, “নির্বাচন আমাদের গণতন্ত্রের ভিত্তি, এবং প্রত্যেক নাগরিকেরই মর্যাদা ও স্বাচ্ছন্দ্যের সঙ্গে এতে অংশ নেওয়ার অধিকার রয়েছে। অনেক প্রবীণ নাগরিকের জন্য ভোটকেন্দ্রে পৌঁছানো এবং ভোটদান করা একটি বড় সমস্যা ছিল, তাই আমরা তাঁদের পাশে দাঁড়ানোকে আমাদের দায়িত্ব বলে মনে করেছি। মণিপাল হসপিটালস কলকাতার ইউনিটগুলিতে আমাদের দায়বদ্ধতা শুধু চিকিৎসা পরিষেবার মধ্যেই সীমাবদ্ধ নয়; আমরা সমাজের গুরুত্বপূর্ণ মুহূর্তগুলিতেও পাশে থাকতে চাই। এই উদ্যোগের মাধ্যমে আমরা নিশ্চিত করেছি যে প্রবীণ ভোটাররা নিরাপদ, সহায়তাপ্রাপ্ত আত্মবিশ্বাসী বোধ করেন। গুরুত্বপূর্ণ এই দিনে তাঁদের কণ্ঠস্বর যাতে শোনা যায়, সেটাই আমাদের লক্ষ্য।” এই উদ্যোগটি আবারও প্রমাণ করে যে মণিপাল হসপিটালস চিকিৎসা পরিষেবার বাইরে গিয়েও সমাজের কল্যাণ ও সহজে পরিষেবা পাওয়ার বিষয়টিকে অগ্রাধিকার দেয়, বিশেষত এমন গুরুত্ব পূর্ণ নাগরিক দায়িত্ব পালনের সময়।

olkata, 29^th April 2026: As citizens across Kolkata turned out in strong numbers on Election Day to exercise their democratic right, Manipal Hospitals Kolkata reinforced its commitment to inclusive participation by ensuring that age and health-related challenges did not hinder the process. All five of its units – EM Bypass, Mukundapur, Dhakuria, Salt Lake, and Broadway – were fully prepared to support senior citizens, enabling them to cast their votes safely, comfortably, and with dignity.

Recognising that elderly voters often face mobility and health-related challenges, Manipal Hospitals, Kolkata, undertook a dedicated initiative wherein neighbourhood SPOCs (Single Points of Contact) coordinated end-to-end transportation, ensuring seamless travel for senior citizens from their residences to polling booths and back home. To further strengthen on-ground support, MARS ambulances were strategically deployed and stationed outside polling booths, with wheelchairs and stretchers available and supported by trained medical teams comprising doctors and nurses to address any immediate health concerns. Bedridden senior citizens were transported to polling booths in MARS ambulances under medical supervision, enabling them to participate in the electoral process with dignity and care.

Sharing her experience, Gopa Chaudhary from Bairagi Old Age Home said, “At 84, stepping out to vote was challenging, but I was determined to exercise my right no matter what. The support extended by Manipal Hospitals made the entire experience seamless, safe, and comforting. From arranging transportation from my residence to ensuring I reached the polling booth and returned home comfortably, every detail was managed with exceptional care and compassion. This thoughtful initiative gave me the confidence and peace of mind to participate in such an important democratic process. I am truly thankful to the hospital group for empowering senior citizens like us to cast our votes with dignity and ease.”

Commenting on the initiative, Dr. Ayanabh Debgupta, Regional Director – East Region, Manipal Hospitals, said, “Elections are the cornerstone of our democracy, and every citizen deserves the opportunity to participate with dignity and ease. For many senior citizens, reaching polling booths and casting their vote was a challenge, and we felt a strong responsibility to step in and support them. At the units of Manipal Hospitals, Kolkata, our commitment goes beyond clinical care; we strive to support the communities we serve in meaningful, real-life moments. Through this initiative, we ensured that elderly voters felt safe, supported, and empowered to exercise their right. It is our way of standing by them so that no voice is left unheard on such an important day.” This initiative reflected Manipal Hospitals’ continued commitment to extending care beyond clinical settings, prioritising accessibility and community well-being during important civic events.

About Manipal Hospitals

As a pioneer in healthcare, Manipal Hospitals is among the top healthcare providers in India, serving over 8 million patients annually, with a focus on providing affordable, high-quality healthcare services. Manipal’s integrated network today has a pan-India footprint of 49 hospitals across 24 cities with 12,600 licensed beds and a talented pool of 11,000+ doctors and an employee strength of over 34,000. Manipal Hospitals provides comprehensive curative and preventive care for a multitude of patients from around the globe. Manipal Hospitals is AAHRPP-accredited, and most of the hospitals in its network are NABH, NABL, ER, and Blood Bank-accredited and recognised for nursing excellence.

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