WIFA nominates Mumbai’s Millat FC for I-League 3rd Division

by Chittu Shetty August 25, 2023

In an exciting development for the Mumbai football scene, the well-regarded Millat FC has been nominated by the Western India Football Association (WIFA) to participate in the upcoming I-League 3rd Division.

The esteemed opportunity comes as the All India Football Federation (AIFF) strives to enhance and expand the football landscape across the nation.

Millat FC, a club deeply rooted in Mumbai, has consistently demonstrated dedication to the sport and a commitment to nurturing local talent. The club’s nomination is a testament to their persistent efforts and vision for the growth of football in the city.

The Nominated Clubs

The AIFF’s League Committee received nominations from various state football associations, with the following clubs earning their spot in the 3rd Division League based on specific nomination criteria:

• Chhattisgarh FA: RKM Football Academy and New Friends Club Dantewada
• Football Delhi: Vatika FC and Garhwal FC
• Goa FA: Dempo SC and Sporting Clube de Goa
• Gujarat SFA: Baroda FA and ARA FC
• Karnataka SFA: Sporting Club Bengaluru and Kickstart FC
• Punjab FA: International Football Club Phagwara, Doaba United FC
• Madhya Pradesh FA: Lake City FC
• Rajasthan FA: Jaipur Elite FC
• WIFA (Maharashtra): Millat FC

Furthermore, nominations from 10 other states are pending confirmation after due diligence, as guided by the League Committee. These states include All Manipur FA, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu FA, Kerala FA, Pondicherry FA, Sikkim FA, Uttar Pradesh FA, Assam FA, FA of Odisha, Telangana FA, and IFA (West Bengal).

An Exclusive Interview with Millat FC’s Owner – Farhan Butt

In an exclusive interview, Farhan Butt the owner of Millat FC shared their elation and aspirations regarding the club’s upcoming venture.

Q1: Congratulations on Millat FC’s nomination to play in the new I-League 3rd Division! How does it feel to have your club recognized for this opportunity?

Farhan: It gives us immense pleasure and happiness that we got this opportunity. All the hard work around these years from all our players, coaches, and supporting staff has paid off. It’s an honor for us to represent Maharashtra in this year’s I-League 3rd Division.

Q2: What are your expectations and aspirations for Millat FC’s participation in the I-League 3rd Division?

Farhan: Our only expectation is to play and showcase good football throughout the tournament and qualify for the next round.

Q3: Millat FC has a good base in Mumbai, how do you see your club’s participation in the I-League 3rd Division impacting the local football scene?

Farhan: We started this team in 2009 with a vision of playing good football and competing at the highest level. Finally, we have achieved that. As for impacting the local Mumbai football scene, our aim was always to promote local talent and develop football in Mumbai. In this tournament, we are again promoting local boys from Mumbai and providing them with a platform in their career pathway to reach the highest level.

As Millat FC gears up to step onto the grand stage of the I-League 3rd Division, their nomination underscores the significance of grassroots efforts, dedication, and the transformative power of football within communities. Mumbai’s football enthusiasts and supporters eagerly await the team’s journey in this prestigious competition.

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