Maharashtra Oranje FC all set to shine in I-League 2nd Division

by Chittu Shetty September 15, 2023

In an interesting turn of events, Maharashtra Oranje FC, formerly known as The Oranje FC, is gearing up to make its mark in the upcoming 2023-24 I-League 2nd Division season.

Based in the bustling neighborhood of Powai, Mumbai, this ambitious football club has steadily climbed the ranks of Mumbai Football, earning its place in the I-league Division.

A Dutch Philosophy: The Birth of Oranje Football Academy

The journey of Maharashtra Oranje FC can be traced back to the founding of the Oranje Football Academy in January 2016. The brainchild of Satyajeet Saaini, a mechanical engineer with a deep passion for football, the academy embraced the Dutch philosophy of “total football.” Starting with just over 200 enthusiastic students, the academy quickly gained recognition for its commitment to nurturing football talent.

The Oranje Football Academy didn’t stop at Powai; it extended its reach to other neighborhoods like Hiranandani, Bhandup, and Powai Vihar, establishing coaching centers and fostering a love for the beautiful game among aspiring footballers.

A Journey Through the Ranks: The Rise of The Oranje FC

In 2017, the Oranje Football Academy took a significant step by assembling its first team, aptly named The Oranje FC. The following year marked their debut in the MFA 3rd Division, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey through Mumbai’s football tiers.

From 2019 onwards, they continued to ascend, competing in multiple MFA Divisions, including the 3rd, 2nd, and 1st divisions. Their hard work and dedication culminated in a historic moment in 2020 when they made their debut in the 2020–21 MFA Elite Division, the pinnacle of the Mumbai Football League.

Maharashtra Oranje FC’s consistency and determination have been the keys to their success. In the 2022–23 MFA Elite Division season, they finished an impressive 4th for the second consecutive season, proving that they could hold their own among the best in Mumbai’s football scene.

A New Chapter: Maharashtra Oranje FC Joins I-League 2nd Division

The most exciting chapter in their journey awaits in the 2023-24 I-League 2nd Division season. In a significant development, Oranje Academy Sports & Events Pvt Ltd has taken over Atlanta FC completely and thereby will be taking the club forward in the future. Atlanta FC had secured a spot in the 2023-24 I-League 2nd Division in the previous season after a successful campaign. As a result, Maharashtra Oranje FC will now proudly represent Mumbai and Powai in India’s third-tier football league.

With a commitment to total football, grassroots football development and a newfound opportunity in the I-League 2nd Division, Maharashtra Oranje FC is set to dazzle football enthusiasts in the city and make its presence felt on the national stage.

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