Overwhelmed with joy, Coach Singh expressed his happiness, stating, “We are very happy. Sometimes we don’t know how to express in words. But we are really happy, and we are ready for the finals. The players are very humble, and I am really proud of my boys.” His pride in the team’s achievement was evident as they secured a comfortable passage to the championship match.

Reflecting on their dominant performance against FC Goa, where Classic FA controlled the game and limited their opponents’ chances, Coach Singh explained their game plan: “The plan was simple. We always play according to the situation, but our playing style is always attack-oriented, believing that attack is the best form of defense.” He added, “We were a bit lucky to get early goals, which allowed us to be very composed in defense. In the second half, our plan was to counter-attack, and we successfully scored a third goal, so we are happy.”

Looking ahead to the highly anticipated final against Mohun Bagan Super Giant, Coach Singh acknowledged the strength of their opponents. “Yeah, they are a very good side,” he admitted. However, he exuded confidence in his team’s readiness, asserting, “But we are ready to face all the challenges, and may the best team win in the final.”

Finally, Coach Singh shared his positive opinion on the Reliance Foundation Development League (RFDL). “Right now, I want to congratulate the RFDL. This is one of the best platforms for young boys to showcase their talent. All the credit goes to RFDL,” he lauded, recognizing the league’s significant contribution to youth football development in India.

With their semi-final victory secured, Classic FA and Coach Chandam Chitrasen Singh are now focused and determined as they prepare for the RFDL final against Mohun Bagan Super Giant, promising an exciting showdown for the championship title on April 14th in Mumbai.

Mumbai Super League Fixtures, Standings and News – Click Here

Mumbai Premier League Fixtures, Standings and News – Click Here

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for all the latest happenings in the world of Indian Football.

The post Classic FA Coach Chandam Chitrasen Singh: “We’re ready for the final challenge” appeared first on Football Counter.

His experience spans local Mumbai clubs like Salsette FC, Young Guns India to top-tier Australian teams such as Devonport Strikers, and now the Indian Super League (ISL). This season, Hyderabad FC’s all-Indian coaching staff has showcased a revitalized approach under Head Coach Thangboi Singto, with Suraj as a key technical influence. We sat down with Suraj to delve into his journey, philosophy, and plans for the season.

From Mumbai Local clubs to International Clubs: The Challenges and Growth

Reflecting on his career journey, Suraj says, “Securing promotions season after season with Salsette FC was fulfilling, but my hardest moment came in 2014 when I couldn’t clear the AIFF C License after several attempts.” Yet, this challenge eventually became a turning point. “It pushed me to learn from some of the best globally. What felt like a failure actually became a blessing in disguise, opening doors for me internationally,” he explains. The experience transformed him from a young, passionate coach into one who could break down complex football concepts and communicate effectively.

Having coached in Australia, Suraj notes how his experiences overseas have shaped his approach to coaching Indian players. “In developed countries, players often want to know the ‘why’ and ‘how’ behind every instruction, while in Asia, players are more accustomed to following instructions directly,” he shares. This nuanced understanding has allowed him to adapt his coaching style. “Being able to connect with players from different cultural backgrounds has made me more effective in guiding them through challenges,” he emphasizes, highlighting how his global experience enables him to bridge cultural differences on the field.

Thangboi Singto’s Impact and Leadership at Hyderabad FC

Suraj fondly recalls his first interaction with Head Coach Thangboi Singto at Hyderabad FC. “We had a personal conversation before anything professional. Thangboi made it a point to ensure I felt comfortable in my new environment, even before we started discussing football,” he says. According to Suraj, Thangboi’s true strength lies in his personal touch. “His ability to connect on a personal level makes everyone want to go the extra mile for him,” he adds. This camaraderie resonates across Hyderabad FC’s all-Indian coaching setup, setting a positive tone for the season.

With the recent acquisition by the BC Jindal Group, Hyderabad FC has found much-needed stability. “The new management has really lifted the entire atmosphere at the club,” Suraj explains, noting how the facilities, access to a top-notch gym, and improved accommodations have contributed to the renewed morale. “We’re seeing a real sense of energy in training sessions and among the players. This stability allows us to focus fully on our game,” he adds, appreciating the management’s efforts to ensure the team can concentrate on performance.

Aiming High This Season

Suraj is optimistic about the season, even though the team faced challenges due to a lack of preseason preparation. “The boys showed tremendous resilience, especially in our recent performances. We battled with 10 men against Chennai and managed to secure a draw,” he shares. With recent victories over Mohammedan Sporting and Kerala Blasters FC, he believes the team is well-positioned for a strong comeback in the season’s second half. “We’re aiming for a playoff spot, and everyone—players and staff alike—is hungry for success,” Suraj affirms.

The Evolving Coach: Suraj Pillai’s Philosophy

Looking back on his evolution as a coach, Suraj describes himself as “someone who used to control every process.” Over time, he has learned the importance of empathy and adaptability. “I’ve realized that in the end, we’re dealing with people, and it’s crucial to understand and connect with them,” he says. Now, his approach emphasizes collaboration and flexibility. “When we create a safe environment, people feel comfortable enough to extend their limits, and that’s when real growth happens,” he shares, underscoring his commitment to building a team culture based on respect and mutual support.

Suraj Pillai: From Grassroots to ISL

After successful stints with Australian clubs Manly United FC and Manly Vale, Suraj returned to India to found Young Guns Football Academy in Thane and establish ‘Football Coaches Academy,’ where he mentors coaches nationwide.

With Hyderabad FC’s young squad achieving promising results, including recent wins over Mohammedan Sporting and Kerala Blasters FC, Suraj Pillai’s experience and adaptable coaching style are proving invaluable. His journey and dedication are laying a strong foundation for a bright season ahead.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for all the latest happenings in the world of Indian Football.

The post From Mumbai local clubs to the ISL: Suraj Pillai’s journey through challenges, growth, and ambition appeared first on Football Counter.

Chennaiyin FC are currently at the at the third place of Group D having suffered narrow defeats in their opening two matches and are out of the qualifying race.

Speaking about his introduction to football, Vincy said, “I have come from the streets of Goa. I used to play a lot on the streets, one coach saw me and picked me up to train at a very early age. I started to play for a village club and after that he took me to Raya FC and then to Sporting Club de Goa and eventually to Dempo SC. Because of him, I am a footballer today.”

Vincy then moved to FC Goa, where he featured for the side’s reserve side playing in the Goa Pro League and the I-League 2nd Division. He made a move to Gokulam Kerala FC ahead of the 2020-21 I-League season and won the league with the Malabarians. He was then able to gain attention from ISL side Kerala Blasters and eventually landed in his current side Chennaiyin FC a season later.

“It’s been a good journey so far in various clubs under various coaches. Right now, I am in Chennaiyin and I am really grateful to be playing for this great club. The club has given me good opportunities to play and prove myself. When you keep getting playing opportunities, you can keep improving and become the best version of yourself,” he said while speaking about his short career so far.

Having played for various clubs across various levels, Vincy has had a career full of learnings. The 24-year-old said, “I try to improve the smallest things that I can. I try to spend more time to improve my skills to be at the level where I want to be. As a young player, you always have to learn and keep listening to your coaches on their instructions. To be the best player, you have to do all the things correctly which I feel I can do by playing more minutes.”

During the 132nd edition of the Durand Cup, Vincy Baretto scored against Delhi FC to help Chennaiyin secure a 2-1 win and he scored against Jamshedpur FC in this year’s Durand Cup when Chennaiyin went down with a 2-1 scoreline. “It is always an honour to play in the oldest tournament of Asia. We get to face different teams from the other divisions as well as the armed forces. This helps us to improve ourselves and I am so grateful that I am getting opportunities to showcase my talent in this prestigious tournament,” Vincy said about his experience of playing in the Durand Cup.

“The Durand Cup gives you the competitive game time to prepare yourself for the ISL season ahead. We are happy as a young team to get this opportunity to play in this tournament,” he further added.

After making his move to Chennaiyin FC, he has been able to get regular game time and hone his skills. After Head Coach rejoined the Marina Machans ahead of the 2023-24 ISL season, Vincy has earned 20 caps for his side and scored a goal in the process.

While speaking about Coyle’s influence in his football, Vincy said, “He always tells me to keep playing simple football; the best players always play simple football. He gives us the freedom to do something extra when we are inside the opposition box, but otherwise he demands from us to play simple football. I always make sure to listen as much as I can and get as much information from him. I am really happy and grateful to play under him.”

For Fixtures, News and Group table of MFA First Division – Click here

Also Read: Karnataka, Rajasthan set up summit clash in Jr Girls’ NFC 2024-25 Tier 2

Also Read: MFA First Division Playoffs: Match Results Round-Up

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for all the latest happenings in the world of Indian Football.

The post “It Is An Honour To Play In The Durand Cup” – Vincy Baretto appeared first on Football Counter.

Following his national team debut, Ashutosh was handed a two-year ban starting from June 24, 2022. The two-time I-League winner played a pivotal role in securing Jamshedpur FC’s first victory in the 133rd Indian Oil Durand Cup. Reflecting on the past two years, Ashutosh shared, “Considering the situation I was in, I am in an absolute war with myself. I played a match after around 800 days and during these days, I was all by myself; I was my friend, I was my enemy, and I was my biggest competitor.”

Jamshedpur was introduced as a new venue for the 133rd edition of the Durand Cup, marking the commencement of the Indian football season. The Red Miners managed to keep a clean sheet against Assam Rifles FT in their opening game on Sunday, with Ashutosh playing a crucial role in their defence. “It’s very difficult to put in the work when there’s no camera and no one watching. I just had to keep my head down and keep working. I feel humbled and grateful to the almighty that I could make a comeback after 800 days. It’s just the beginning of a long season, but I am happy that we managed to get the three points today with a clean sheet,” he added.

Ashutosh began his professional career under Khalid Jamil, who recently signed a two-year contract as the head coach of Jamshedpur FC. Speaking about Khalid’s influence on his move to Jamshedpur FC, Ashutosh remarked, “He was the reason I was at Mumbai FC; he was the reason I joined Aizawl FC and then NorthEast United FC, and he is the reason I chose to join Jamshedpur FC. I have sincere gratitude towards the Jamshedpur FC management for trusting me and giving me this opportunity.”

Coach Khalid Jamil expressed his satisfaction with Ashutosh’s performance in the season opener, saying, “Making his comeback, Ashutosh completed the 90 minutes today, which is a positive for us. When he joined us, he was as strong, if not stronger, both mentally and physically, ready to contribute to the team’s success. He has matured, and he knows that this comeback year will be crucial for him.”

Also Read: Thaer Krouma Signs an Extension With Mumbai City

Also Read: Emami East Bengal posts a comfortable victory over Indian Air Force

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for all the latest happenings in the world of Indian Football.

The post “I was my biggest competitor” – Ashutosh Mehta reflects on his return to football after 800 days appeared first on Football Counter.

With a firm belief in high standards and player development, Ryan has led UBI to new heights. Here’s a detailed look into their journey, the factors behind their success, and their future plans.

Setting High Standards and Achieving Dreams

At the beginning of the season, UBI set ambitious goals. “Our goal is to play top football and to be ranked in the top three of any tournament we participate in,” says Ryan. With a focus on player development and preparing for the highest level of competition, UBI played two notable tournaments this season. They were runners-up in the Shri John Alphonso tournament in Borivali and crowned unbeaten champions in the Mumbai Corporate League.

“Being ‘champions’ is an achievement in itself, and remaining unbeaten is a tremendous feat last achieved in 1989,” reflects Ryan. “It means everything to me. It’s a dream come true and a moment we’ll cherish forever.”

Key Factors Behind the Success

The success of UBI this season is attributed to several key factors. “I owe it to the players whose pure dedication, sheer hard work, hunger to learn, positive attitude, discipline, and most importantly, the belief that they can be a force to reckon with,” Ryan explains. This collective effort and mindset were crucial in clinching the championship title.

Standout Performers

While it’s challenging to single out individual players, several stood out for their exceptional performances. “It’s difficult to pinpoint one single player since all played their roles excellently,” says Ryan. However, notable mentions include Captain Brendan, Twain, Lalit, Elvin, Sarvesh, Ryan, Farooq, Chinmay (GK), and Pradeep. Each of these players contributed significantly to the team’s overall success.

Meticulous Preparation and Tactical Mastery

Preparation for matches was a rigorous process, especially for a young and inexperienced team. “Making them understand the roles and responsibilities in each area of the field in respect to formation and style of play was crucial,” Ryan states. The team worked on getting to optimal fitness, practicing different zones of the field, and repeatedly rehearsing key tactics. Their preferred formation was 4-3-3, but they also worked on formation changes to adapt to different opponents.

Playing practice matches against strong teams such as the Maharashtra Santosh Trophy team, Reliance Youth Foundation, and top Mumbai Premier League teams significantly boosted the team’s confidence. “These matches were essential in refining our strategies and building team cohesion,” Ryan notes.

Overcoming Challenges

Every season presents its own set of challenges, and for UBI, the major hurdle was coordination. “Each player had their own style and approach to the game, which initially made it difficult to coordinate our efforts, “ Ryan recalls. The biggest challenge was learning to work together as a team and understanding each other on the field in terms of formation and style of play. “Overcoming this hurdle was crucial for our success,” Ryan emphasizes.

Memorable Moments

Reflecting on the season, Ryan highlights some memorable matches that stood out. “The match against Indian Navy was a tough match where the opponents were seasoned players with better technical, physical, and tactical abilities than us,” he recalls. Despite the challenges, UBI played to their plan and had the upper hand twice before leveling the scores in a roller-coaster game.

Another highlight was the match against BOB, the league title favorites. “It was a brilliant performance where we scored four goals, with three clinical finishes from crosses and a stunning shot from the top of the box that sealed their fate,” Ryan reminisces.

Looking Ahead

As UBI looks ahead to the upcoming season, Ryan emphasizes the importance of consistency. “We will continue to work in the same way like we do every season,” he asserts. The team will focus on maintaining their high standards, refining their strategies, and ensuring continuous player development.

Also Read: Punjab FC crowned Dream Sports Championship winners after 1-0 win over East Bengal

Also Read: IOT FC Head Coach Yash Shah: Mumbai Premier League promotion feels euphoric and relieving

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for all the latest happenings in the world of Indian Football

The post The Unbeaten Champions: An Insight into Union Bank of India’s dominant Season with Coach Ryan appeared first on Football Counter.

Over the past four years, IOT FC has embarked on an extraordinary journey, securing four consecutive promotions within the MFA’s football pyramid. This remarkable rise reflects not only their talent on the field but also their unwavering commitment to long-term success.

Maintaining an unbeaten streak over the past two seasons, IOT FC has established themselves as a formidable force in MFA. Their recent accomplishment as runners-up in the Mumbai Super League further solidifies their status as a rising powerhouse within the MFA. This notable achievement has earned them a well-deserved promotion to the Mumbai Premier League for the upcoming 2024-25 season.

Speaking with Footballcounter, India On Track FC Head Coach Yash Shah delved into the joy of winning promotion to Mumbai Premier League, Support of Management and challenges faced during the season.

Excerpts from the Interview:

1. Congratulations on finishing as runners-up in the Mumbai Super League! How does it feel to achieve such a remarkable feat with IOT FC?

Yash: Thanks a lot. It feels both euphoria and relief to get promoted for the Mumbai Premier League given how difficult it was to achieve it. Also we wanted to win the competition but nevertheless I am satisfied.

2. What were the key factors behind IOT FC’s success in the Mumbai Super League this season?

Yash: Alignment of the management, coaching staff, and players all in one direction was crucial. The recruitment of players throughout the season played a significant role. Eventually, the commitment of all stakeholders involved was extremely important. Meticulous preparation for each match, including attention to multiple details, along with a fluid tactical plan, was vital in achieving optimum results in each game. All of these factors together led to our long-term success.

3. Can you share some insights into the team’s preparation and strategy, throughout the league campaign?

Yash: It was crucial to gauge the collective strengths and weaknesses of my team early on. After that, I developed a tactical system with 3-4-3 and 3-5-2 variations to maximize our strengths and minimize our weaknesses. Each training session was meticulously planned to build a clear strategy for handling various types of team press at different lengths of the field. We also worked on maintaining a defensive shape against various opponents, and managing both transitions. While we had a clear style of play, we were also practical in adjusting to weather conditions and opponents, which I believe was extremely important in achieving the desired results in each game.

4. What were the biggest challenges that IOT FC faced during the season, and how did the team overcome them?

Yash: Keeping the players for such a long duration of the league was the biggest challenge, especially since a few important players had come from out of town. Some scheduling issues also posed a challenge for us. Ensuring that players thoroughly understood the tactical system was not easy. Keeping players motivated and injury-free was difficult as the season dragged on. Handling the pressure was tough for both the coaching staff and the players, especially with the pre-season goal of achieving promotion.

5. Looking back at the season, are there any standout moments or matches that you consider particularly memorable?

Yash: It is difficult to name a few. Getting victories early in the group stage against big teams like Mumbai Soccer Prodigies (MSP) and United Villagers was critical as a bad result would have proved fatal in the long run. Against MSP, the entire team adjusted to the rainy conditions very well and gave a gritty performance despite going 1 man down. Against United Villagers, the individual brilliance of our forward PC Anurag was crucial. Not losing against Mumbai City FC and Tarun Sporting were also strategically important results for us in the group stage.

In Playoffs, the entire team showed character to come from goals down and win 3 games in a row proving that IOT deserved to qualify. Our wingback Leisemba was an important player for us along with many other players in those games. Getting a point against Mumbai City FC in the last game despite playing 10 men and eventually 9 men showed the character and spirit of IOT staying unbeaten for the entire campaign

6. How do you plan to build on this success and continue to strengthen IOT FC in the future?

Yash: We take all the positives of this season. I am fortunate to have a club with a professional football culture which has players’ welfare at forefront along with competence at its core. I take this forward to achieve similar results in the future. 

7. What are your aspirations and goals for IOT FC in the Mumbai Premier League next season?

Yash: We look to make a competitive squad again and achieve similar results that we have achieved in the last 2 seasons.

Also Read: MH ORANJE FC U-17 Trials for the Upcoming Season

Also Read: Football School of India announce trials for Young Talents

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for all the latest happenings in the world of Indian Football

The post IOT FC Head Coach Yash Shah: Mumbai Premier League promotion feels euphoric and relieving appeared first on Football Counter.

The team’s journey, propelled by dedication and a commitment to the Dutch philosophy of “total football,” has been nothing short of remarkable.

Established in 2017, the club’s inception was marked by the founding of the Oranje Football Academy, a visionary project by Satyajeet Saaini, a mechanical engineer with an enduring passion for football. The academy quickly gained recognition for embracing the principles of “total football” and nurturing football talent in the bustling neighborhood of Powai and beyond. As the academy expanded its reach to various Mumbai neighborhoods, including Hiranandani, Bhandup, and Powai Vihar, it laid the foundation for what would evolve into Maharashtra Oranje FC.

From a modest debut in the MFA 3rd Division in 2018, the club steadily climbed the ranks of Mumbai football, ascending through multiple MFA divisions to eventually make its mark in the prestigious MFA Elite Division. The team’s consistency and determination shone through, finishing an impressive 4th in the 2022–23 season. Now, with a strategic acquisition of Atlanta FC’s spot in the I-League 2nd Division, Maharashtra Oranje FC is poised for a historic national debut, bringing the essence of Mumbai’s footballing spirit to a wider audience.

We had a quick chat with Owner Satyajeet Saaini ahead of the club’s debut campaign

Q1: Congratulations on Maharashtra Oranje FC’s entry into the I-League 2nd Division! How does the team feel about this new opportunity, especially considering it’s the first time participating in such a prestigious competition?

Satyajeet: Thank you. The team is grateful for this opportunity. It’s a once in a lifetime chance for many players. They are raring to go, and we hope it pans out the way we want.

Q2: Reflecting on the journey so far, can you share the key milestones that led Maharashtra Oranje FC to this point, from the formation of the first team in 2017 to competing in various MFA divisions and the Elite Division?

Satyajeet: We formed the club in 2017 as The Oranje FC and participated in the Palava Football League with a squad of youngsters, hungry for success. The following year marked our entry into the MFA, gaining promotion to the 2nd Division. We participated in multiple divisions, facing challenges and showcasing progress. Despite the obstacles, we made our debut in the Elite Division and, following two seasons, secured a spot in the I-League 2nd Division.

Q3: Taking over Atlanta FC in September 2023 was a significant development. Could you elaborate on the decision behind this move and how it positions Maharashtra Oranje FC for the upcoming I-League 2 season?

Satyajeet: Our faith in our players gave us the confidence to acquire Atlanta FC. We identified players for the upcoming season, positioning us to genuinely challenge for the title.

Q4: The team will be playing at COE, Kharghar, instead of the Cooperage Stadium. How does this change impact the team, and what factors contributed to this decision?

Satyajeet: We would have loved to play at Cooperage Stadium, but approval issues with AIFF necessitated a change. COE, Kharghar is a state-of-the-art facility, offering an exquisite pitch. Despite stadium work pending, it will be our go-to venue in the future.

Q5: As the owner, what are the primary goals and expectations for Maharashtra Oranje FC in their inaugural I-League 2nd Division season?

Satyajeet: Our aim is to perform to the best of our ability. We are aiming for promotion, taking one game at a time. The most important thing is to play good football that entertains and keeps everyone on their toes. We want people to remember us.

Q6: Given the transition from regional to national-level competitions, How has the team been preparing for the transition to a higher level of competition, both on and off the field?

Satyajeet: We’ve been training since August with the entire team, playing practice games and competitive football in the Elite division.

Q7: In terms of squad development, have there been any notable additions or changes to the team roster in preparation for the I League 2nd Division?

Satyajeet: We retained 17 players from the last season and scouted a few players from other teams, signing all the shortlisted players. Additionally, we signed a few outstation players to add more quality and depth to the squad.

Q8: Finally, what message would you like to convey to the fans and supporters of Maharashtra Oranje FC as they embark on this exciting journey in the I-League 2nd Division?

Satyajeet: We would want people to back us and support us till the end of the season as we represent Mumbai and Maharashtra. We will try our best, and we wish to continue giving players a chance in the future.

With the I-League 2nd Division debut on the horizon, Satyajeet Saaini and Maharashtra Oranje FC are ready to leave a lasting impression in Indian football, fueled by their journey from local leagues to the national spotlight. Fans eagerly anticipate the kickoff, backing the team as they aim to make history in the upcoming season.

For Fixtures and Standing and News on the Mumbai Super League: Click

Also Read: Mumbai Super League: Bombay Gymkhana edge Mumbai Ultras FC in 5 goal thriller

Also Read: Aylmer Gonsalves – The Mechanical Engineer rewriting Mumbai Super League history

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for all the latest happenings in the world of Indian Football

The post Total Football, Total Ambition: Maharashtra Oranje FC all set for I-League 2 Campaign appeared first on Football Counter.

At just 23 years old, this Striker for Mumbai Ultras FC has not only become the club’s leading goal scorer but has emerged as a dynamic force in the league.

Speaking with Football Counter, Joyson delves into his life, journey, team and goal-scoring habits

Early Days and Inspiration

“Thanks to all my teammates and the coaching staff for always working hard on me,” says Joyson. Hailing from a football-loving Catholic family in Goregaon, his journey into the world of football was nurtured by his coach and elder brother, Mr. Albinus Chettiar, who also happens to be the coach of Mumbai Ultras. Inspired by his elder brother and the club’s reputation, Joyson found his footballing home in Mumbai Ultras, a club he describes as a family.

Goal-Scoring Brilliance and Team Contribution

Joyson is currently in the 2^nd position of the goal scoring charts of the league behind Alymer Gonsalves of Om Saidham FC. It is a testament to not only his ability to find the net but also the presence of mind to be in the right place at the right mind.

“Like no player can reach milestones all by their own, I too attribute my success to the team, coaches, and the whole Ultras Family,” Joyson humbly reflects. “I would never be the top scorer if it was not for my team,” Joyson emphasizes. His ability to attack is facilitated by the knowledge that he has a solid defensive line behind him, ready to regain possession.

“Balancing offensive contributions with midfield responsibilities is no easy task,” notes Joyson. He credits his team for giving him the freedom to push forward and look for goals

Most Memorable Goal

Describing his most memorable goal this season, Joyson paints a vivid picture of his goal against Soccer Saga played on November 14^th in which Ultras walked away with a 3-0 win, “I did a wall pass with my friend Shreyas Zele and beat the defence line. Then, I just chipped the ball over the goalkeeper to give our team a 3-0 lead.” This goal exemplifies not only his scoring ability but also the synergy within the team.

Training and Preparation

“Preparation of matches only includes a good diet and ample amount of water before and on the game day,” Joyson shares. Working night shifts doesn’t deter his commitment to training. Balancing professional life and football, he attends club training sessions and occasionally engages in personal beach training.

Future Aspirations

Joyson sets his sights on a minimum of 25 goals for the season but underscores that personal success is secondary to the team’s ambition – winning the league. Ready for challenges, he expresses confidence in the team’s ability to overcome obstacles.

Beyond Football and Role models

“Outside of football, I just love spending time with my friends and family. Also, I enjoy playing Fantasy Football games,” says Joyson, showcasing his interests off the field.

While Cristiano Ronaldo is a lifelong inspiration, Joyson models his playing style after Luka Modric. On the field, he aims to emulate the Croatian maestro’s finesse and creativity.

Joyson Chettiar’s journey from a football-loving family in Goregaon to becoming the leading goal scorer for Mumbai Ultras FC is a testament to his talent, dedication, and the support of his football family. As he aims for greater heights, the Mumbai Super League can only anticipate more dazzling performances from this young midfield sensation.

For Fixtures and Standing and News on the Mumbai Super League: Click

Also Read: In-form India on Track FC Cruises Past 10-Man Charkop FC with a Commanding 3-0 Victory

Also Read: Soccer Saga come from behind to win 3-1 over Kenkre U19

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for all the latest happenings in the world of Indian Football

The post Joyson Chettiar: The Goal-Scoring Maestro of Mumbai Ultras FC appeared first on Football Counter.

Vikram, who joined Mumbai City in 2020 from Indian Arrows, has now become one of the key players in Head Coach Des Buckingham’s setup. Speaking with FootballCounter, Vikram shared his experiences, aspirations, and the valuable lessons he’s learned along the way.

Excerpts:

Q: How did you start your journey in football, and who is your Idol?

Vikram: I wanted to be a footballer since my younger days as my father was a footballer too. He couldn’t go much far in it but he was the one who helped me get into this game. Ever since I started training, I wanted to be a professional footballer.

Q: So Vikram, you have been with Mumbai for a couple of years, and in these years, what has evolved in you? What aspect of your game have you improved?

Vikram: I have improved a lot in the last 3-4 years. I have learned a lot from different players who played for the club. I hope to play more minutes and score goals, and help the team in whatever aspect they need me to. I don’t consider myself as a youngster looking for just experience anymore; I want to play more now. I have seen our Coach Des in the last two years and know what he expects from me, and I believe I can deliver it for him.

Q: Can you share some insights on how coaches have helped you in improving your gameplay?

Vikram: There is constant communication with the coach on what to improve, how to improve, and what is expected from me. Earlier, my skills were not in sync with what the coaches needed from me, but over time, I have improved on it, and now I feel the coaches believe in me.

Q: Mumbai City FC has a lot of quality attacking players in JPD, Greg Stewart, Bipin, Chhangte, and others. Being an attacking player, how do you see this situation?

Vikram: It’s important to have good competition. Ever since my Indian Arrows days, I have wanted to go to a club where I can have healthy competition for my position. If I start playing there, I will get into the National Team quicker. Last year Bipin and Chhangte were doing really well for the club, so I learned a lot from them, and this year I am trying to replicate what they did for the club. If there is healthy competition, a player will improve more.

Q: This season, you’ve had more starting appearances in both AFC Champions League and now ISL matches. How does it feel to have the coach’s trust and more playing time?

Vikram: I always used to give my 100% effort in the game. But this time, I have a better understanding of what my team wants from me. During the off-season, I trained on the same, and I have started getting minutes, I just hope to come good on the Coach’s trust in me.

Q: Can you share some of your personal goals and ambitions for this season?

Vikram: Last season, I didn’t get to start any games, so my personal aim was to get into the playing XI, and now that I am getting starts, I want to extend it to as many games as possible, score some goals, and do my best for the club.

Q: Mumbai City FC may have a small but dedicated fan base. What’s it like playing in front of such passionate supporters at the Mumbai Football Arena, and how have they motivated you?

Vikram: The stadium and numbers may be small, but the fans are very vocal and loud, and it helps motivate you as a player. In the game against Kerala Blasters, when it was 1-1, the fans cheered for us continuously and helped us push for the winning goal. So yes, it’s a great set of fans to have.

Q. Any message for the Mumbai City FC Fans?

Vikram: Last season, we had a great run and lifted the shield. This year the expectations are the same, so to my Mumbai City FC fans, please continue this support. We want your support even more because we want to win every game. You guys in the stand, cheering for us, provide the extra motivation, so please do come to the Stadium and watch us play.

Vikram Partap Singh’s journey from the youth ranks to become a key player for Mumbai City FC is nothing short of inspiring. With his newfound confidence and Coach Des Buckingham’s trust, the future looks bright for this young Indian talent.

For Fixtures and Standing and News on the Mumbai Super League: Click

Also Read: Mumbai Super League: Mumbai Strikers SC, Iron Born pick big wins

Also Read: Mumbai Super League: MSP holds Tarun Sporting to a hard-fought draw

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for all the latest happenings in the world of Indian Football

The post Vikram Partap Singh: From Rising Star to Key Player – An Exclusive Interview appeared first on Football Counter.

When asked about the team’s performance in the campaign, Arif stated, “Performance wise I feel each team member gave their 100%, the team management was motivating and encouraged us throughout this campaign. On one level I could call this campaign a successful one since we qualified and at the same time we need to work on our potential to achieve our target.”

Though Maharashtra won 4 games in the group but in the final group game theylost to West Bengal by 2-1 margin, which kept them at the 2nd spot in the league table. Speaking about the mood within the team after the loss against West Bengal, Arif said “We wanted to win to top the group. The team was disappointed with the loss, although we fought back, it was their day.”

Arif had previously played under coach Steven Dias at a club level but this was the first time for the state team. When asked about his experience playing under Coach Steven Dias, Arif said “We all consider playing under coach Steven Dias a great honour and privilege as he is a football legend. As a coach he is very calm and professional and understands every player personally, he ensures we bring out the best in us to reach the highest level.”

Arif finished the campaign with 6 goals, top most scored alongside Naro Shrestha of West Bengal and Nijo Gilbert of Kerala. When asked about his own individual performance, Arif stated, “Under the given circumstances, I gave my best although I feel I can do better. As this is a team game every goal I scored was a team effort.”

Football fans in Kolhapur came in numbers for every Maharashtra matches. The final group game against West bengal saw a record 20000 people in the stands. Speaking about the crowd, Arif said, “The organizers did a fantastic job of hosting this tournament in Kolhapur making it a memorable experience for us. The atmosphere was electrifying and we felt their presence encouraging us. Personally and for the whole team it was a dream come true playing in Chhatrapati Shahu stadium.”

Arif’s words give a glimpse of the unity and team spirit that the Maharashtra team possessed during the tournament. His dedication to improving his performance and the team’s potential to achieve their goal is a positive sign for their future campaigns. The support of the coach and the home crowd made the tournament a memorable one for Arif and the team as well.

Also Read: Kerala to host Hero Super Cup in April

Also Read: Mumbai Kenkre stun league leaders with late-winner

The post Arif Shaikh reflects on Maharashtra’s performance in Hero Santosh Trophy campaign appeared first on Football Counter.