On Sunday, she scored her first hat-trick in the span of just 19 minutes against Bhutan in the SAFF U17 Women’s Championship. A sizzling free-kick into the roof of the net and two right-footed strikes that nestled into the bottom corner. A special talent is brewing in Indian women’s football.

It’s been brewing since before she was even a teenager. She started to play at the age of six, like how most kids in India do. “At first, I used to play casually at home. Watching my elder sisters go to play made me want to go out and play as well, so that’s how I began,” Anushka told AIFF.

When she was 11, she joined the Residential Girls Football Centre in Hazaribagh, around 80 kilometres from her hometown Rukka in the Ranchi district of Jharkhand.

“From then on, I kept moving forward. I played in the Sub Junior National Football Championship for Jharkhand. The scouts were present there. I performed my best, and from there, I was selected for the national camp,” said Anushka, whose mother is a labourer and runs the household after her father suffered a fractured leg and is unable to work anymore.

And just like that, Anushka found herself wearing the blue of India at the SAFF U16 Women’s Championship 2024 in Nepal. She was only 13 years old and emerged as the joint top-scorer of the tournament with five goals, scoring in every single match.

“Playing for India means a lot to me because there are so many players who attend trials from various places, and then only a few of us get selected. After that, it’s even more difficult to make it to the playing XI. So being here makes me feel really happy that out of so many players, I could make it through.”

But when India lost the final to Bangladesh on penalties, Anushka was left dejected. This wasn’t how her maiden foray into international football was supposed to be.

“When we went to play the SAFF last year, we couldn’t win the final. We felt really bad because we had worked so hard but still couldn’t get the trophy home. So this time (in Bhutan), we have come with the mindset to win the trophy and take it back with us.”

A diminutive but quick figure on the pitch, Anushka started out as an attacking midfielder before transitioning into a striker, while playing for Indian Arrows Women Juniors under Joakim Alexandersson during last season’s IWL 2. She was her team’s top-scorer with six goals, playing a big role in their runners-up finish and promotion to the IWL.

“The IWL 2 was a really good experience. Earlier, I did not know how to play as a striker. Coach Joakim put me in that role, and I learned how much a striker can contribute by scoring and helping the team. Whenever I get the ball, I have an eye for the goal. I learned a lot from playing in the league,” said Anushka.

Off the pitch, her father and elder brother are her biggest supporters. “They feel so proud when they see me playing, whether on TV or on the phone. It delights them by saying, ‘my daughter is playing or my sister is playing’. Whenever I need anything, I tell them, and they make sure I get it. So, I am really thankful to both of them.

“I have a lot of dreams. Going forward, I want to play for the U20s, and then the senior national team and help India win games. I want to keep scoring goals and, one day, take this team to the World Cup,” aspired Anushka.

For now, the immediate task in hand is to lift the SAFF U17 Women’s title on the August 31 in Thimphu. Her first hat-trick has only fuelled the fire even more as she chases her second consecutive top-scorer award. With five goals in three games, she leads the chart, closely followed by teammate Abhista Basnett at four. But as long as the team wins, it doesn’t matter whose boots the goals come from.

“My team always supports me well, and since it was my first hat-trick, I am really happy that I could perform well. We want to win the SAFF and then qualify for the U17 Asian Cup in October,” said Anushka.

With three wins in three, the Young Tigresses are flying in Bhutan so far. They will face the hosts again on Wednesday, August 27, at the Changlimithang Stadium at 17:30 IST. The match will be streamed live on the Sportzworkz YouTube Channel.

Ahead of the fourth match of the competition, head coach Joakim Alexandersson said, “It’s been great to see many different goalscorers so far. We had a recovery session on Monday and a solid hour of training today (Tuesday). Our starts haven’t been the best so far, so we are more focused and concentrated on what we want to do with the ball right from the beginning. Our defence has been decently good, but there are still things to improve.”

Credits: AIFF Media

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Back then, the scenario was dominated by the clash between the traditional I-League and the widely popular Indian Super League, a battle for supremacy that threatened to divide the sport’s domestic structure. It’s been almost a decade now, while some aspects of that initial dilemma have evolved, Indian football finds itself mired in a new, arguably more serious, and immediate crisis. The struggle for identity, stability, and a clear path forward still continues, now further amplified by critical governance issues from AIFF and a lack of clarity for the future.

A Rollercoaster Run: From Hope to Concern

Following the successful hosting FIFA U-17 World Cup, the nation’s football landscape experienced a period of significant optimism. The men’s national team showed promising performances, notably at the 2019 AFC Asian Cup, and achieved a commendable ascent into the top 100 of the FIFA rankings, reaching as high as 96. There was a genuine belief within the Indian football community that we were on an upward trajectory. Despite a few hiccups under Coach Igor Stimac, which saw us struggle for wins against Bangladesh and Afghanistan, our eventual back-to-back AFC Asian Cup qualification had raised the hopes of fans.

However, this upward trend was unfortunately short-lived and soon enough gave way to a concerning downturn. The men’s national team’s performance has visibly deteriorated over the last two years, registering a mere two wins in their last twenty games. Our reliance on talismanic skipper Sunil Chhetri for international goals has always been evident. However, the alarming scarcity of viable replacements for him had now compelled Coach Manolo to recall the legend back from retirement.

The lack of goals highlights a deeper, systemic issue within Indian Football. It raises pertinent questions about whether the domestic ecosystem is adequately fostering the talent and competitive edge truly essential for sustained international success.

The never-ending uncertainty of Indian Football

Meanwhile, the administration under the current AIFF President, Kalyan Chaubey, has faced a turbulent period, grappling with a series of controversies that just never seem to end. Issues range from the highly publicized Igor Stimac contract debacle to the very recent contentious I-League title fiasco between Inter Kashi and Churchill Brothers. The latter ultimately escalated internationally as Inter Kashi took the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). The ill-fated short tenure of Manolo Marquez has not helped anybody’s cause either. Accusations continue to fly, with prominent figures like former player Bhaichung Bhutia vocalizing their concerns publicly and frequently.

The FSDL-AIFF Stalemate

With the 15-year partnership between FSDL and AIFF nearing its end, both parties initiated renewal discussions. However, they failed to agree on new terms: FSDL proposed a new ownership structure for the ISL (60% clubs, 26% FSDL, 14% AIFF), while the AIFF countered with a demand for a higher annual payment (₹50 crore with a 5% annual increase). This standoff is further complicated by the Supreme Court order in April 2025, advising the AIFF not to proceed with the MRA renewal discussion until its order on the AIFF’s constitution, effectively freezing any negotiations and leaving the future of the league and the livelihoods of countless players and staff in precarious limbo.

With Indian football continuing to be in troubled waters, the situation looks dire. One can only hope that a decisive leadership with a proper vision emerges out of this debacle, allowing Indian football to see some light at the end of this increasingly dark tunnel.

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Recent reports indicate that Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), the league’s organizers, have conveyed to clubs that the new season may not commence as planned unless the status of the vital Master Rights Agreement (MRA) is definitively clarified.

The MRA, a 15-year commercial partnership between FSDL (a joint venture backed by Reliance and Star Sports) and the All India Football Federation (AIFF), has governed the ISL’s operations and commercial rights since its establishment in 2010. This pivotal agreement, under which FSDL pays AIFF an annual fee (reportedly ₹50 crore or 20% of revenues, whichever is higher), is set to expire in December 2025. A previously scheduled meeting between the AIFF and FSDL in late April, aimed at discussing its renewal, was unfortunately delayed, with no further negotiations publicly announced since.

The core of the current deadlock stems from pending legal developments. The situation is further complicated by a Supreme Court order from April 2025, which reportedly directed the AIFF and FSDL not to enter into any negotiations regarding the MRA until a final verdict is passed on the AIFF’s constitution. This crucial Supreme Court hearing, addressing matters related to the AIFF’s governance structure and autonomy, is now scheduled for July 14, 2025.

Adding another layer of complexity, the draft of the new AIFF constitution reportedly suggests that the country’s top-tier league should be owned, operated, and directly managed by the AIFF, with its roles not assignable to any other entity. If this draft is ratified, it would fundamentally upend the existing MRA framework and could bring league operations back under the federation’s direct purview. “Everything will depend on the Supreme Court order,” a club CEO was quoted as saying, acknowledging the critical nature of the upcoming verdict.

This looming uncertainty is already having tangible effects across the ISL ecosystem. Clubs are reportedly slowing down their operations and player signings during the current transfer window, adopting a cautious “wait-and-watch” approach. Pre-season training, which typically begins in July, has been delayed across most franchises. “We’ve been told that ISL won’t kick off unless the MRA’s future is clear,” a club official told The Times of India, adding, “Everyone knows that the MRA cannot be finalised overnight.”

Player contract negotiations, sponsorship deals, and foreign signings are all in a state of limbo, forcing club CEOs and sporting directors to prepare for multiple scenarios – including a shortened season, a delayed start, or even a year without the ISL. The implications are far-reaching; the ISL ecosystem directly and indirectly supports thousands of jobs, from administrative staff and coaches to groundskeepers and media teams. As one source noted, “The problem is not just about money. It’s about control, autonomy, and the legal framework in which Indian football operates.”

Adding to these concerns, the AIFF just moments ago officially announced its comprehensive calendar for the Indian Football 2025-26 season. While this calendar outlines dates for a total of 20 leagues and competitions, it conspicuously lacks any mention or clue of the Indian Super League. This glaring omission has sparked major concern among football fans and club delegates alike.

The released football calendar confirms the Durand Cup as the season opener for senior men’s football, set to kick off from July 15th across 4-5 different venues and concluding on August 23rd. Just a few days later, from September 1st, the Super Cup/Federation Cup is slated to begin. Crucially, the ISL remains absent from these outlined dates.

Meanwhile, the calendars for the second, third, and fourth tiers of Indian football have also been announced. The I-League 3 is set to commence from October 1st, serving as a qualification bridge into the same season’s I-League 2, which is dated to begin from February 1st, 2026. The second tier of Indian football, the *I-League, is scheduled to kick off from October 19th.

The situation, described by one unnamed club official as “grim,” underscores deeper systemic questions about the future of Indian football – who controls it, who profits from it, and who charts its direction. The coming weeks, particularly leading up to the Supreme Court’s July 14th hearing, will be pivotal in determining the fate of the Indian Super League and, by extension, a significant portion of the Indian football landscape

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The club, known for its commitment to nurturing talent and participating in major tournaments, is offering a golden opportunity for budding players to showcase their skills and potentially earn scholarships based on merit. Adding to the academy’s formidable structure, Heimir Hallgrímsson, known for leading Iceland to historic football achievements, including facing Messi’s Argentina and shocking England, has recently joined SFL as Technical Director, bringing his invaluable experience to shape SFL Oranje’s rising footballers.

The trials are structured across different dates and age groups, providing a comprehensive selection process for the academy.

Under 15 and Under 17 Categories:

• Dates: June 19th, 20th, and 21st
• Reporting Time: 7 PM
• Age Cut-off:
  • Under 17: Players born between January 1st, 2009, and December 31st, 2010.
  • Under 15: Players born between January 1st, 2011, and December 31st, 2012.

A three-day camp will be conducted for each age group to assess the players’ abilities thoroughly. SFL Oranje Academy, the academy division of Maharashtra Oranje FC, is dedicated to getting “better and stronger” and aims to provide a platform for young footballers to grow.

Successful candidates will have the opportunity to be part of an academy that participates in prestigious tournaments, including those organized by the Private, MFA (Mumbai Football Association), WIFA (Western India Football Association), and AIFF (All India Football Federation).

Interested players are urged to register by filling out the form available in the academy’s bio (scan for the link provided in the original announcement). For further inquiries, prospective players or their guardians can contact the academy at 9082526672 / 9987358189 or email [email protected].

With scholarships being provided on merit, SFL Oranje Academy emphasizes its commitment to supporting deserving talent. This is a significant opportunity for young footballers in Mumbai to take a step closer to their professional dreams under seasoned guidance.

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Conducted under the aegis of the Western India Football Association (WIFA), the six-day programme saw participation from 23 active football coaches, all of whom were affiliated with the Indian NGO Slum Soccer.

The course was led by AIFF lead coach educator Shailesh Karkera, and supported by two Indian Sign Language interpreters from Slum Soccer, ensuring full accessibility for all participants, in the presence of of AIFF’s head of coach education, Vivek Nagul.

Introduced in 2012, the AIFF D Certificate is an entry-level coaching qualification offered as part of the AIFF’s Coach Education Programme, which at present has around 16,000 registered coaches on record.

Designed for aspiring coaches, the course blends theory and practical sessions, focusing on children’s football, technical development, and child safeguarding with a focus on the various aspects of the coaching process.

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The winger from Manipur joined the Islanders in 2018 following stints with Shillong Lajong and ATK and went on to become one of the most crucial figures in the club’s history. During his time with Mumbai City, Bipin won two Indian Super League Cups and two Indian Super League Shields, playing a pivotal role for the club over the years gone by.

He was a key member of the team’s historic 2020-21 campaign, where Mumbai became the first side to win both the ISL Cup and Shield in the same season. His stunning match-winning goal in the final against ATK Mohun Bagan remains one of the most memorable moments in ISL history. Bipin clinched his second ISL Cup in the 2023-24 season, making a decisive impact in the final with a stunning goal, having also been part of the squad that secured the League Shield in 2022-23.

With 158 appearances and 28 goals, Bipin departs as the most capped player in Mumbai City history.

Bipin said, “It’s hard to say goodbye, but I leave with nothing but gratitude in my heart. Mumbai City has been my home for seven unforgettable years; this club has given me everything. To the fans, teammates, staff, and everyone who’s been part of this journey, thank you for the love and belief. Mumbai City will always be a part of me.”

Kandarp Chandra – CEO, Mumbai City, commented: “Bipin’s journey with Mumbai City has been truly special. Over the years, he’s made a meaningful impact on and off the pitch, delivering key moments and showing unwavering commitment to the club. His connection with our fans and his contributions to our success speak for themselves. As we bid farewell, with immense gratitude and pride, retiring the No. 29 jersey is a small gesture to honour everything he has meant to us and the legacy he leaves behind. He will always have a place in the Mumbai City family.”

Sujay Sharma – Director of Football, Mumbai City, commented: “Bipin has been a pillar of our squad through the most historic moments in the club’s timeline. He complemented to this and his key goal contributions over the years, with his positive team persona on and off the pitch. We thank him for everything he’s done for the club, and wish him and his family the very best in their future, as he moves on to his next chapter.”

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With 12 victories and two draws, the Red Miners accumulated 38 points to finish fifth in the league stages, qualifying for the playoffs for the first time since 2021-22, before they beat NorthEast United FC 2-0 in the one-legged knockout to register their first ever win in the playoffs stage.

Spanish flair behind JFC’s gritty displays

Amid an increased focus on possession-based football, Jamshedpur FC carved a distinct playing strategy that optimised their strengths and propelled them to instrumental wins during the course of the season. Leading the charge on that front have been their Spanish attacking duo of Javi Siverio and Javi Hernandez, who combined and contributed to a total of 16 goals and three assists – making up nearly 46% of the total strikes scored by the side.

While Hernandez, with nine goals and three assists, has been an inspired signing in the summer from Bengaluru FC, Siverio had joined the club midway through 2023-24 and extended his deal prior to the current campaign. Both of their impacts have been overwhelmingly positive, with Siverio’s sides now being unbeaten in 19 ISL games in which he has scored (W14 D5), the highest such tally for any player.

“Khalid Jamil knows me as a player”

Siverio credited Jamil for a major chunk of his success at Jamshedpur FC. “From day one, coach (Khalid Jamil) has valued me and given me confidence. I think he knows me as a player and that’s why I have found my best football in Jamshedpur FC again. The coach knew me, and we were attacking and playing to win, which is why a player like me can score goals. With more playing time and being closer to the box, I believe I can perform at my best, and the coach understands that,” he said.

Siverio adds tremendous aerial strength to the Jamshedpur FC setup, winning 16 aerial duels against Punjab FC on January 27, 2025, the most by any player in a single game in the ISL. Creating 24 goal-scoring chances and making 110 touches inside the opposition’s box, he has been a lively presence in the final third, playing the perfect foil to Hernandez’s creative touch, with the ex-Bengaluru FC attacking midfielder making 29 key passes and taking 26 shots on target, effectively converting 34% of them into goals.

“I encourage players to play with freedom”

Jamil’s coaching philosophy appears to have given his star attacking duo the required freedom to express their skillsets freely as well. In a recent episode of ‘In The Stands’, the tactician had touched upon the difference in coaching domestic vis-à-vis overseas players.

“I do instruct my players in some areas, especially when they are required to do man-to-man marking. Otherwise, I encourage them to play with freedom, display their talents. It should not be like my players are robots and play exactly like I ask them to do. I like to give them freedom, especially to foreigners, who need to use their experience. Young Indian players cannot be overloaded with information, and senior players are to be pushed to share their knowhow whenever required,” Jamil said.

Jamshedpur FC had clinched the League Shield in 2021-22, but endured two difficult seasons post that. Now, they have a chance to produce something special in the semi-finals, as they face the League Shield Winners MBSG in the second leg on April 7 with a lead in the fixture. With both Siverio and Hernandez scoring once each in the opening game, Jamil will bank heavily on their craft, experience, and goal-scoring knack to guide his team into the finals.

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From setting their sights on the championship from day one to navigating the pressures of a nail-biting final day, MSP’s story is one of Self belief and commitment.

“It really feels great,” Rathod expressed, reflecting on the team’s achievement. “We had decided this season we will play only and only for the title.” This singular focus, he believes, was the key to their success. Unlike teams who often settle for playoff spots, MSP aimed higher and achieved greater.

The team’s ability to thrive under pressure was a crucial factor in their victory. Rathod emphasized his role in alleviating the pressure on his players, reminding them of their potential and the hard work they had put in. “I feel if something is important to you, you will feel some pressure at all times for achieving that, it will always be there, and we need to figure our different methods to work around it,” he explained.

A pivotal moment in MSP’s campaign was the strategic strengthening of their defense with the signings of Nitesh Aswani and Prithvi ahead of the playoffs. Rathod acknowledged their crucial role, stating, “To put it in simple words, we wouldn’t win this title without this defense.” He highlighted Nitesh’s leadership and Prithvi’s aerial dominance, both of which proved vital in the crucial final matches.

Captain Deep Moorjani also played a significant role, embodying the team’s spirit both on and off the field. Rathod praised his leadership and work ethic, saying, “He was the one who has led players on and off the field.”

The team’s attacking prowess was spearheaded by Nihal Colaco, who had an incredible season, culminating in the Best Forward award. Rathod, while acknowledging Nihal’s talent, believes the striker has even greater potential. “I believe in Nihal, and trust me when I say this, we haven’t seen his best yet,” he stated.

In a poetic twist, MSP’s journey began and ended with Brothers WA, a fitting full-circle moment. Rathod, however, remained confident throughout, stating, “There were no doubts in my mind about the final game, I knew the boys were ready and we have got this.”

Rathod’s dedication extended beyond the field, as he even took a break from social media to focus on the team’s goals. “We all were off our major distraction to focus on bigger goal,” he explained, referring to MSP’s title win and TFA’s 1st Division runner-up finish. “It was about believing in dreams and fighting for them.”

Now, with MSP promoted to the MFA Elite Division, Rathod and his team face new challenges. He acknowledged the significant step up in competition, stating, “There is a lot of hard work now… we need to start from the scratch work hard to even sustain here.”

When asked to describe the season in one word, Rathod chose “Ecstatic,” emphasizing the fulfillment of a collective dream. “We dreamt something, we worked for it, we achieved it! Now we have more strength and more belief to dream and work towards it. There is no better feeling, I suppose.”

As Rathod takes on the additional responsibility of coaching the Mumbai U20 District team, his experience and leadership will undoubtedly continue to shape the future of Mumbai football. His ability to guide and motivate players, as evidenced by MSP’s championship victory, will be invaluable in nurturing the next generation of talent.

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In doing so, the 18-year-old etched his name in the Club’s history as the first player to rise through every level of the youth system – from the U-13s all the way to the first team.

A homegrown talent through and through, Prachit began his journey with the Gaurs in 2018 at the U-13 level, steadily making his way through the U-15, U-17, U-19, and Development squads before earning a senior team promotion earlier this season. His dedication and hard work culminated in a landmark moment on Tuesday when he stepped onto the pitch in the 80th minute against Mohammedan SC.

The youngster wasted no time in making an impact, capping off his debut with a flawless 100% pass accuracy – an encouraging glimpse of what’s to come.

The midfielder has also donned the colours of the Indian national team at the U-17 level. His performances in the Goa Professional League, Reliance Foundation Development League, and other domestic competitions showcased his immense potential, paving the way for this breakthrough moment.

Prachit’s rise is not just a proud chapter for FC Goa but also an inspiration for aspiring footballers across the state. The youngster’s journey embodies the Club’s vision of developing homegrown talent and is a testament to the effectiveness of its youth development system.

Reflecting on his ISL debut, Prachit Gaonkar said, “This is a dream come true for me. I’ve grown up playing in FC Goa’s colours, and to finally step onto the pitch for the first team in the ISL, also at our home ground in Fatorda in front of all my friends and family, is a moment I’ll cherish forever.

“I’m grateful to all my coaches, teammates, and everyone at the Club who has supported me throughout this journey. This only inspires me to keep working hard and contribute more to the team.”

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Organized by IKF in association with Tyger Capital, this unique event provided invaluable opportunities for players to gain insights into professional football, with a focus on development and international exposure.

Top Premier League Scouts Evaluate Indian Talent

Premier League academy scouts Jimmy Hayes and Chris McGrath from Pro Soccer Global were on hand to observe, assess, and provide feedback to the players. Despite the first day being cut short due to weather conditions, the second day saw a more structured and dynamic format, with players engaging in 9v9 matches. This setup allowed the scouts to assess not only individual abilities but also how players functioned within a team setting. The day concluded with personalized feedback sessions, where the scouts highlighted both strengths and areas for improvement, offering valuable advice for each player’s development.

Parent Engagement Sessions with FCV International Football Academy

While the young talents were busy on the field, Neil Hilliard, Head of Recruitment and Admissions at FCV International Football Academy, along with Amber Corbin, engaged with parents. These sessions focused on the academy’s educational pathways and opportunities for Indian players to train and study in the UK. Parents were appreciative of the valuable insights and felt more confident about the future prospects of their children’s football careers.

Scouts’ Insights: A Promising Future

Speaking about the event, Jimmy Hayes emphasized the growth he’s witnessed over the years: “The standard is improving every time, which is great, especially in the younger age groups.”

When asked what he specifically looks for in players during these workshops, Hayes mentioned, “First for me is technique—passing, receiving, and controlling the ball. Commitment and communication are equally important.” His feedback, along with Chris McGrath’s, provided players with actionable insights to elevate their game.

Players and Parents Reflect on the Experience

Both players and parents expressed their gratitude for the workshop. Parents noted the valuable feedback their children received and appreciated the pathways presented to further their football careers. Aspiring footballer Rohan Khan from Assam shared his excitement: “The workshop was conducted in a pretty good manner. I learned a lot from the scouts and will try to implement their teachings to improve my game.”

This workshop was not just an event; it was a stepping stone for these young athletes, many of whom aspire to make their mark on both the Indian and international football scene.

Looking Ahead

As IKF continues to create opportunities for grassroots football in India, the success of the Season 4 Workshop is a testament to their commitment. With the guidance of Premier League scouts and the involvement of international academies, these young footballers are well on their way to making a significant impact in the sport.

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