The first half was controlled solely by MSP where they played some good football and made good runs which kept the Kenkre defence on their toes. In the 26th minute, the MSP defender got the breakthrough for them with a finish in to the back of the net to put MSP ahead at the break.

The second half began with the same attacking intensity by MSP and doubled their lead in the 52nd minute through Krish and made it 2-0. Kenkre tried getting a few passes together and attack but failed to make the most out of it as they didnt have more than 1 shot on target. In the 66th minute Vinay once get got on the end of a delivery and got his brace and made it 3 for MSP. Just 4 minutes later, their young talent Muneeb got his share of the cake as well as he netted the 4th goal for MSP and his first of the evening but not his last as he got another one in the 85th minute to make it 5-0 for the Prodigies with Kenkre left helpless as they didn’t have much options on the bench. To put the cherry on top, Shubham got his goal and well on the 90+2 minute to finish the game with a dominating performance and a 6-0 victory to make it back to back wins for Mumbai Soccer Prodigies and Kenkre still remain without a win this season.

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WIFA’s Hon. General Secretary Mr. Souter Vaz congratulated Kenkre FC, highlighting that the club will be the sole flagbearer from the state in the Hero I-League. Kenkre FC Director Joshua Lewis and Coach Akhil Kothari were also present at the press conference.

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Kenkre FC Director Joshua Lewis gave credit to the whole team that was always motivated and gritty to walk the extra mile. He also said that in the 21 years of the club’s existence, the club had always promoted local talent, and it believes in growing players in their backyard. He added all of this will stir up the impetus in the new and upcoming players.

Coach Akhil Kothari laid down the challenges ahead in terms of preparatory time. He also said the club as a unit has the clarity and intent to perform well in the Hero I-League. Akhil explained that the club intends to play the core team which participated in the Qualifiers in October without making too many changes.

Rajasthan United Football Club topped the qualifier charts by finishing first and Kenkre came second. In the yesteryears, Kenkre FC had made six attempts to breakthrough, and this was their lucky 7th. WIFA Secretary Souter Vaz confirmed that due to Chennai city FC pulling back from the tournament, Kenkre FC qualified after finishing at the runner-up position in the qualifiers.

Kenkre FC started their preparation camp today, and the team will be travelling to Kolkata on 16th December for the Hero I-League 2021-22 season commencing from 26 December 2021.

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After impressing everyone in the MDFA, Mumbaikar Azza Noorani displayed his skills in the I-League Qualifiers 2021 when he played for Kenkre FC, a team from his home city.

Azza started playing for Kenkre after he gave trials for them in September. “In September, they began their trials, where all the coaches were experienced and gave personal attention to every prospective player. The trials lasted for two weeks. It was a great experience also because I got selected,” said Azza.

With the Covid-19 restrictions in Mumbai, Kenkre’s team was assembled only a month before the qualifiers. The team was led by India’s youngest ‘A’ licensed coach Mr Akhil Kothari. Azza has played under many experienced and well-known coaches before Kenkre’s stint. On that, he said, “He is young, but he is dynamic and fearless. It was a pleasure to play under him, and I personally enjoyed it a lot.”

Azza became a vital cog in Kenkre’s squad this season, where he started all 7 games and performed exceptionally in every one of them. He also scored a fantastic goal against ARA FC, where Kenkre won by 2-1. “I have worked hard to play for Kenkre, and I think I performed well because I gave it my all. It was a proud moment for me that I got to start every match.”

Kenkre missed out on the title after they drew the must-win decider game against Rajasthan United, who went on to lift the trophy and qualify for the I-League. “It’s unfortunate that we missed out on this great opportunity. but I guess we will definitely come back much stronger and better.”

The Mumbaikar started his career with Carmelites SC, a local club from Mumbai that played in different Bandra leagues. After that, Azza never looked back, and he went on to play for Mumbai City FC juniors, then PIFA Colaba, where he had his first exposure to the top tier of Mumbai football. After his stint with PIFA, he was picked up by KSA, who represented in the MDFA elite division. Then finally, he was a part of Air India in 2019, which lifted the MDFA Nadkarni Trophy.

Speaking about Mumbai football, Azza said, “We have a huge number of talent in Mumbai, who all need a platform to showcase it. I think Kenkre is doing a great job to help the local players, which can make a big difference for all the Mumbaikars. I wish we could have got that I-league spot, and then the story would have been different altogether, but it’s ok, there’s a lot to come in future.”

Azza dreams of playing for the national side one day, which is his and his parents biggest dream. To conclude, Azza thanked all the team members, staff, coach of Kenkre FC for the recent eventful campaign and also his family and friends who have supported him until date.

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All thanks to goals from Azfar Noorani in the 14^th minute and Yash Mhatre’s strike in the 67^thminute that ensured Kenkre FC’s successive wins in Pool B.

With this win, Kenkre FC has ended ARA FC’s hopes of making it to the Hero I-League. ARA FC is now at the bottom of the Group-B table; they started their campaign with a 1-1 draw against debutants Corbett FC and, in their second clash, they lost by three goals to nil to Delhi FC.

Although ARA FC had a great start in the match, Kenkre turned the tables on the 14^th minute when Ranjit Singh Pandre made a perfect cross pass to Azfar Noorani, who then shot the ball with accuracy into the net, leaving no chance for the ARA FC goalkeeper Shubham Rajeshkumar Chauhan to stop the ball.

Just before the first-half whistle, ARA created a fantastic chance when Rana gave an exceptional pass to Saurabh Maheshwari. Still, ultimately Maheshwari couldn’t convert it as Kenkre’s goalie Tenzin was at his best. The first half ended 1-0 in Kenkre’s favour.

In the second half, even though ARA had more control on possession, Kenkre’s discipline to convert the chances they get helped to net the ball again on the 67^thminute. Substitute midfielder Yash Mhatre scored the goal.

After Kenkre’s second goal, ARA immediately started to create chances and dominate the game, which helped them score a goal in the 70^th minute by Dahir Bala Alhassan.

ARA tried hard to make a comeback, and created a lot of chances till the very last minute but it wasn’t just enough to stop Kenkre from taking away 3 points home!

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ARA FC has earned only one point in their last two games, and hence this will be a must-win match for them to survive in the league. They managed a 1-1 draw against newcomers Corbett FC in their opening clash and lost 0-3 against Delhi FC in the next.

“It will be a very important match for us. Definitely, the next two matches are must-win games. If we get three points against Kenkre on Saturday, then we are still in the race. It is a very crucial game,” said Mr Vivek Nagul, Head coach ARA FC in a pre-match press conference.

On the other side, Kenkre FC had a fantastic start to their season, after they made a comeback against Kerala United and won the game by 2-1. Kenkre’s Head Coach Mr Akhil Kothari told, “It was good to win against Kerala United, and the players are carrying the confidence from that win. But it is important for us not to get complacent and take one-match-at-a-time. We just feel every team has their strengths and weaknesses, and for us, it’s about capitalising on the opponent’s weak point and deliver our best football.”

Kothari focused more on sticking to their plans and respecting every opponent they will face ahead. “Every team in the tournament is a tough opponent, and we can’t take anyone lightly. Our plans are different for every team, but the approach is the same to progress in the tournament.”

Both the teams can be in a comfortable position if they win this contest! If Kenkre wins, they have the chance to extend their lead with 6 points and stay on the top, whereas ARA FC can look for third-place after a win.

This Group B game between ARA FC and Kenkre FC will be streamed live on the Hero I-League official Facebook page from 3.45 PM IST.

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Kenkre FC have long been regarded as one of the best sporting teams from Mumbai. Having achieved multiple accolades with their men’s team, the outfit has lately been reckoned as a powerhouse for budding talents in Women’s football.

This time they are conducting trials for the upcoming Indian Women’s League (IWL).

Location- Neville Dsouza Ground, Bandra (W), Mumbai.

Time- 3 to 4:30 pm, Kenkre FC has further requested all the interested players to report at the given venue by 3pm sharp.

Category- Open.

Players participating in the trials are requested to wear proper football kit. The kit should include Shinpads and Stockings compulsory.

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High on confidence after an emphatic victory over GMRC in the pre-season friendlies, Kenkre will look to continue their winning ways against one of the newest teams in the I-League Qualifiers – Kerala United.

“Kerala United is a new team and second division I-League is a tricky competition with respect to the opponents. Our aim will be to gain three points in every match we play in our pool”, said Akhil Kothari.

During a pre-match conference, Head Coach Akhil Kothari was accompanied by Kenkre’s goalie Tenzin Samdup who highlighted more about the team’s bonding and their pre-season. “There is a positive environment in the team and we have a very good set of players. We had a good pre-season and the most important thing tomorrow will be to stay focused on bagging the three points.”

To add on the same, the coach reiterated, “We had a short and unique approach to our preparations this time. The boys have worked really hard and the emphasis is on mental freshness to ensure progress in the competition from group stage to the knockouts,”

Kenkre FC is only the second team from Mumbai in all the top three divisions of Indian Football. In a previous interview with Mr Kothari, he emphasised the importance of promoting local talent and bringing a ray of hope for Mumbai Football. Today he added on this and said, “As we are a club from Mumbai, we have always promoted local players. In our squad of 30, we have 23 from Maharashtra and seven are more experienced players. This combination of youth and experience will be one of our assets going into the tournament.”

Both the teams will look to start their season on a high and grab all three points. Catch the proceedings of the match live on the Hero I-League’s official Facebook page at 12:30pm on Tuesday.

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With the Hero I-League qualifiers approaching rapidly, Kenkre FC head coach, Akhil Kothari, has suggested that it has been a difficult time for the players preparing for the tournament. “As competitive football has not yet resumed in Mumbai, we did visit Hyderabad for a short preparatory camp. We have played a couple of practice matches in our build up for the qualifiers. It’s not an idle situation but our efforts and intentions have always been progressive and positive as a Club.”

Founded in 2000 under the patronage of former national level footballer and coach Mr. Adib Kenkre, the community-based club has always had the vision to promote youth and guide the players to the pinnacle of the game in India. They will now be looking to establish their presence at the biggest stage as they aim to earn promotion to the Hero I-League.

A club that identifies themselves with giving opportunities to youngsters, Kenkre FC are certainly doing their part in this process. With teams competing across India right from the youngest age groups, Kenkre FC have now established a team in the Indian Women’s League as well. This has been achieved through organizing tournaments, football festivals, elite youth competitive matches, football clinics and also tournaments for children in various NGOs across the city.

In a squad brimming with talent, Kothari is happy with the options that he has going into the tournament as well. He said, “Our team comprises a mix of local talent and talents from across the country. We have assembled a talented competitive squad who will aim to leave their mark and showcase themselves in a positive manner.” The bio-bubble presents its own challenges but the coach is not worried about that. “Sport, in general, teaches you to overcome many challenges in life. The bio-bubble is just another challenge. There is a lot of emphasis on team-building activities as we look forward to having a good Hero I-League Qualifiers 2021 campaign.”

Kenkre FC Captain, Yash Mhatre, observed that there is a buoyant mood around the team.

“The mood amongst the squad is upbeat and positive. Our squad comprises of young talented players, and they are determined to make the most out of this opportunity.”

Mhatre went on to say that the ambition of the club and the players was very clear. “We have come to compete in the HILQ with the intention to earn promotion. Mumbai, despite of its huge football fan-base, doesn’t have a team playing in the Hero I-League. We want to make the state of Maharashtra proud and earn promotion, which will inspire budding players from our State to compete at the top level.”

Kenkre FC will kick-off their Hero I-League Qualifier campaign on October 5, 2021 against Kerala United FC at 12.30 PM (IST).

CREDITS- AIFF MEDIA

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“We come from the region of Maharashtra, and we are trying to encourage maximum local talents. Even after the campaign ends, our efforts will continue at the same intensity to promote players from Maharashtra.” 

Footballcounter went up and close with the young and dynamic coach of Kenkre FC, Mr Akhil Kothari. At the age of 25, Akhil is one of the youngest persons to coach a professional team and obtain an AFC ‘A’ Diploma in 2019. He began his coaching career at Kenkre FC by assisting Floyd Pinto in 2015.

Ahead of the upcoming Kenkre’s I league 2nd division Campaign, Coach Akhil Kotari talks about Kenkre’s comeback in the 2nd division after 3 years, their pre-season preparations amidst Covid-19 restrictions and future ambitions.

Excerpts-

1. What are your thoughts about your team this season, and tell us about the new project Kenkre has this year?

 Coach: This opportunity has come to the club after three years with a lot of consistent efforts both on and off the pitch. The last time we participated in the competition was in 2017, and we did qualify for the final round and missed out on qualification for the I-league. We have always encouraged players from Maharashtra. This time around, we have been unable to conduct open trials in the districts of Maharashtra due to several covid restrictions. Our team comprises a mix of local talent and talents from across the country. Our efforts post the campaign will continue at the same intensity to promote players from Maharashtra.

 2. The season is round the corner; how are preparations going?

 Coach: I want to thank the club management for bringing us all together in such difficult times to prepare for the qualifiers. The preparations so far have been good as we are working hard every day and training well. In a short pre-season camp, we have adopted a progressive training approach to prepare the players to compete in the qualifiers. We will be playing practice games against ISL teams to prepare well for the campaign.

 3. How is the squad doing? How were the trials held, and are there any plans for foreign players?

 Coach: We come from the region of Maharashtra, and we are trying to encourage maximum local talents. We have spotted talents from the state and are working with them to prepare them well for the qualifiers. This time we have promoted a lot of players from our system. With regards to foreign players, they are currently undergoing trials. We should be able to finalise them soon.

 4. You have worked with state junior teams and Iron born FC. How is Kenkre FC’s management different?

 Coach: I have come through Kenkre FC’s ranks as a player and a coach and was previously associated with the club for nine years. I was the assistant coach for the 2nd Division I league, the club’s last time in the competition. Kenkre have always tried to encourage homegrown people and will support them in getting better, let it be the player or a coach. The club has a lot on focus on youths since its inception.

 5. Is there any expectation from you to finish top or gain promotion? Has the management given you any targets for this season?

Coach: The aim is to qualify and gain promotion in the I-league, which has been the target for us from day 1. As a group, we are working well to try and achieve our set target and make it happen this time around. As a club, we have previously featured in the competition and have always tried to work our way up through merit. A team from Maharashtra competing in the I-league will encourage local players, coaches and technical staff to showcase themselves rather than moving away from the state to seek an opportunity.

 6. What are your future expectations with the team for the season ahead?

 Coach: The expectations are always positive and progressive as we are a private club where the stakes are high as survival is always a challenge; keeping that in mind, our desire is always to compete at the highest level in Indian football.

7. Will Covid-19 restrictions play a significant role in the season ahead?

 Coach: Yes, with covid restriction in Mumbai, preparations have been challenging, and at the same time, the team has undergone a lot of medical check-ups. But with no excuses, we will give our 100 percent in the competition.

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Also Read: Why Kenkre’s I league 2nd division participation is crucial for Maharashtra football

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Mumbai, the ‘city of dreams, has just one team representing it in the top 3 division of Indian Football that is Mumbai City FC featuring in the ISL. Mumbai over the years has supplied several teams to the I–League. A decade ago, there were teams like Air India, ONGC, Mumbai FC, and Mahindra United who were significant representatives of the state.

Issues such as the inadequacies in the Indian Football structure, and budget constraints posed challenges for the teams and in turn, hampered their growth further.

Mahindra was the top-rated club in the city before shutting down in 2010. A couple of years later, clubs like ONGC and the Air India football team were relegated to playing just MDFA leagues after AIFF put a ban on Institutional sides in an effort to turn the game more professional. Meanwhile, clubs like Mumbai FC shut down in 2016 partly due to internal conflict but majorly due to lack of proper support or structure in Indian Football.

A few years ago, Mumbai seemed to have received a big boost when Pro Kabbadi side UMumba fielded their football team in MDFA Elite Division and had major plans for the I-League entry. For this purpose, they even held trials for Mumbai players. However, things soon turned bleak after their I league opportunity was put on hold. The club decided to completely shut shop for the being instead of hanging out in MDFA leagues.

The last few years have only seen Mumbai City FC’s participation in the country’s premier league. The islanders have also crowned the champions of ISL in 2020 and despite gaining prominence around the country, there is still a distant gap in the funnel for local players to represent Mumbai City.

This is where clubs like Kenkre FC have a bigger role to play. Their selection for the 2nd Division League reinstates opportunities for local players to have more teams to look up to, and seek a development pathway into professional football.

“Well, players from Maharashtra have always been our first option; we are representatives of Maharashtra and will go the extra mile to promote local talent”

– CEO of Kenkre FC, Mr. Joshua Lewis.

Not only this, but Kenkre FC has also been supportive in getting homegrown and aspiring coaches on board. For this year, Kenkre has appointed Mr. Akhil Kothari as the head coach.

Mr. Joshua Lewis quoted, “As a club, we have focussed on youth development since our inception. Likewise, we focus a lot on supporting and nurturing young talented coaches who eventually will make their mark in professional football. We have always promoted homegrown coaches knowing the pros and cons involved. This campaign will be managed by Mr. Akhil Kothari, an A-Licensed Coach who has come through our ranks and will be mentored by our Technical Director, Mr. Irenio Vaz, who has been instrumental in developing Maharashtra football for decades.”

Maharashtra football at the moment needs a structured pathway for its local players. Prospective players have time and again been forced to leave their states in order to seek better opportunities. Clubs like Kenkre FC will not only act as a feeder system but promote football in Maharashtra.

With the 2nd Division campaign just a month away, Mumbai football fans would be hoping for a good show from Kenkre FC.

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