The ongoing Anwar Ali transfer saga has taken another twist as the Player Status Committee (PSC) has deferred its hearing to October 14th. Originally scheduled for September 30th, this delay comes after the counsel for Delhi FC cited health issues, leaving the future of the player hanging in the balance. Both Delhi FC and East Bengal had previously taken their grievances to the High Court following significant penalties imposed by the PSC on the player and the clubs involved.
Delayed Proceedings
InsideSport has confirmed that the PSC received a request from Delhi FC for a postponement until October 6th. However, the PSC decided to grant a new hearing date of October 14th to ensure all parties have an equal chance to present their case. This decision was influenced by a prior communication from East Bengal, indicating their unavailability for the earlier date. The PSC emphasized that they will not entertain any further requests for adjournments based on non-availability.
In a statement regarding the matter, the PSC noted, “A request for adjournment has been received from one of the counsels for Delhi FC seeking accommodation on personal grounds until October 6, 2024. In light of the previous non-availability communicated by East Bengal’s counsel, the hearing originally set for September 30, 2024, is postponed to provide a fair opportunity for all parties involved. The hearing is now tentatively rescheduled for October 14, 2024, at 5 PM.”
Finality of Hearings
The PSC has made it clear that no further requests for delays will be accepted. If counsels are unavailable, the parties involved are expected to arrange for authorized representatives to attend. Failure to do so will result in the case being adjudicated based on the existing regulations. Furthermore, the PSC reiterated that the deadlines for submissions that were previously communicated will remain unchanged.
This firm stance suggests that the PSC is eager to resolve the matter swiftly, although the delay may provide breathing room for Anwar Ali and East Bengal. The player can continue to participate in the current Indian Super League (ISL) season while awaiting the outcome of the hearings.
Implications for Anwar Ali and Clubs
The postponement may be seen as advantageous for Anwar Ali and East Bengal. With the hearing delayed, Ali will be able to contribute to his team’s performance in the ISL, thereby increasing his visibility and potential value. However, there remains a cloud of uncertainty, as the PSC is expected to impose similar penalties as those previously levied against the player and the clubs.
Anwar Ali has already faced a four-month suspension in the past, and both East Bengal and Delhi FC were previously hit with hefty fines and transfer window bans. In fact, the PSC had mandated that both clubs pay a total of ₹12.9 crores to Mohun Bagan as a compensatory fee, further complicating the financial landscape for the teams involved.
Concerns of Delayed Tactics
Some observers speculate that this delay could be a strategic maneuver by either Delhi FC or their legal counsel. The possibility exists that the parties involved are seeking to buy time to strengthen their arguments or negotiate a better outcome. While this may appear to be a delay tactic, the PSC’s previous declarations suggest that they are prepared to take serious action against all parties involved.
The PSC has already ruled that Anwar Ali’s termination from Mohun Bagan was “unjust,” which sets the stage for potential sanctions in accordance with FIFA regulations. Given the complexities and the stakes involved, the upcoming hearing on October 14th will be crucial in determining the future of Anwar Ali and the affected clubs.
FAQs
What is the latest update on Anwar Ali’s PSC hearing?
The hearing has been postponed to October 14th, 2024, due to the non-availability of Delhi FC’s counsel.
Why was the Anwar Ali’s PSC hearing delayed?
Delhi FC’s counsel requested a delay for health reasons, and the PSC granted a new date to ensure all parties can participate.
Will Anwar Ali be able to play in the ISL?
Yes, the delay allows Anwar Ali to continue playing for East Bengal in the ongoing Indian Super League season.
The new ISL season is fully underway, with teams now on their third round of action. The squads are almost finalised, with Hyderabad FC being the only club still actively recruiting free agents.
Moreover, the front of shirt sponsors for most clubs have also been revealed. This is a source of lucrative sponsorship deals for clubs across the world that allows them to receive a financial boost on top of their other income streams.
Here is the full list of shirt sponsors for the top flight this year:
1. Bengaluru FC: JSW
2. Mumbai City: Etihad Airways
3. Kerala Blasters: Medhaa
4. Jamshedpur FC: Tata Steel
5. NorthEast United: Meghalaya Tourism
6. Odisha FC: Odisha Tourism
7. Mohunbagan SG: 1XBAT
8. Mohammedan SC: Dafa News
9. Punjab FC: Dafa News
10. FC Goa: Wolf777 News
11. Chennaiyin FC: MELBAT Live
12. Hyderabad FC: Jindal India
13. East Bengal: NA
East Bengal is the only club to head in without a front of shirt sponsor this year. Although they have the Emami logo on their shirt, they have seemingly ended their deal with Batery.
On the other hand, betting companies continue to feature prominently on club shirts. While the Premier League intends to do away with these in the near future, the same cannot be said for the AIFF.
Hyderabad FC have confirmed the arrival of their third new foreigner of the season, Stefan Sapic. The Serbian has signed the documents, completed the medical tests and has now arrived in the city to be officially presented as a new signing.
Sapic stands at 6’8″ tall and is the tallest player in the ISL. After the arrival of Cy Goddard and Allan Paulista, Sapic is the third new foreigner for the Nizams as they attempt to rebuild their team.
Stefan Sapic joins Hyderabad FC as new signing
🇷🇸 Our own Serbian powerhouse is here 🔥
Standing at 6ft 8in, introducing Stefan Sapic, our wall at back for this season 💪
With Alex Saji ruled out for the season due to a serious injury, the club needed a physically dominating centre-back. And they have achieved exactly that by bringing in Sapic.
The player joins from Bosnian side Zvijezda 09, having terminated his contract with them since the Nizams are still not eligible to sign contracted players from other clubs.
Having played across Europe, including the Europa League and Europa Conference League qualifiers, he brings a wealth of experience to the table too. It now remains to be seen if he can help Thangboi Singto’s side climb out of the bottom of the table after their disappointing start to the season.
India have defeated Nepal 4-2 in the semifinals of the SAFF U17 Championship to make it to the finals. They will be facing Bangladesh in the deciding game of the tournament for a chance to extend their tally of titles.
Bangladesh defeated Pakistan 8-7 on penalties to advance to the finals, and will now have a chance to face the best side in the tournament for a shot at glory.
Neither side was able to find the back of the net in the first half, with it ending 0-0. However, the second half saw six goals being scored, with five being turned in by India.
Rishi Singh, Hemneichung Lunkim, and a Vishal Yadav brace helped the Blue Colts surge ahead. On the other hand, and unfortunate own goal by Mohammed Kaif reduced the deficit while Nepal were only able to find the back of the net once through Subash Bam.
Now, the Blues Colts need to turn their attention to a formidable opponent in Bangladesh to try and win the SAFF U17 Championship once again. It won’t be easy, but they have already managed to overcome the Tigers 1-0 in the group stage.
How many times has India won the SAFF U17 Championship?
Mohammedan Sporting have beaten East Bengal to their first win of the season. The ISL newcomers defeated Chennaiyin FC 1-0 away from home to earn their first three points in the city. They are the only other team from Kolkata to have won a game this season alongside Mohun Bagan SG.
The Mariners have won one and drawn one game so far, and are currently fourth in the table with as many points. On the other hand, Mohammedan Sporting are in the middle of the table with just as many points.
East Bengal yet to earn their first win as Mohammedan Sporting earn first points
The start to the new season has been nothing short of a nightmare for Carles Cuadrat’s side. Despite having the best transfer window performance of their ISL existence, the team has stared the campaign with three straight defeats.
They first lost to Bengaluru, then to Kerala Blasters, and have now come up short against FC Goa. As a result, fans are irate and are demanding more from the team.
No one would have expected Mohammedan Sporting to earn their first points before East Bengal, especially after their transfer window performance. But, such is reality that the Black Panthers are much better placed after two rounds.
FC Goa have picked up a massive win over East Bengal, defeating them 3-2 at home. The match was a hotly contested affair, with the hosts falling short despite a valiant effort.
Borja Herrera scored a hat-trick against his former club in what will surely be a massive blow for the team and the fans. The Gaurs won the match with a man short, after Carl McHugh was sent off for a second yellow in the 81st minute.
FC Goa defeat East Bengal at home in thrilling affair
STUNNNER OF TODAYS CLASH ⚡🤩
Borja Herrera scored 3 goals against East Bengal tonight at Salt Lake 👀
Debjit Majumder was started in goal to replace Prabhsukhan Gill after the former Kerala Blasters player’s woeful performance last time out. However, things didn’t change much for the Torch Bearers at home.
The game started with Herrera scoring two quickfire goals, putting the home team under immense pressure. It eventually let up when Madih Talal was able to dispatch a penalty to make it 2-1 shortly after.
The second half saw Goa on the front foot again, as Herrera completed his hat-trick in the 71st minute. McHugh’s red card allowed East Bengal a way back into the game, with David scoring from the bench to make it 3-2 in the 85th minute. However, it wasn’t enough to salvage a point at home.
The Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season is heating up, and football fans can expect a thrilling clash between East Bengal FC and FC Goa at the Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata this Friday.
Both teams are hungry for their first win of the season, and with the backdrop of a passionate home crowd, this encounter promises to be a high-octane battle.
East Bengal FC Aiming for Back-to-Back Home Wins
East Bengal FC’s return to their iconic home ground presents an opportunity to build on their momentum. The Red & Gold Brigade will be keen to replicate their triumph over Bengaluru FC from last season, a 2-1 victory that sent fans into euphoria. Securing back-to-back home wins would not only provide a much-needed confidence boost but also mark their first consecutive home victories since joining the ISL. Furthermore, this match could be historic for East Bengal as they look to notch their first opening home game win in ISL history.
PV Vishnu
Their narrow 2-1 loss to Kerala Blasters in their season opener showcased their fighting spirit, and coach Carles Cuadrat will be eager to see his side translate that resilience into a victory this time around. The squad boasts a talented attacking trio, with Dimitrios Diamantakos, Naorem Mahesh Singh, and Nandhakumar Sekar, but they will need to sharpen their finishing to get past Goa’s defense.
FC Goa’s Strong Record Against East Bengal
FC Goa’s past encounters with East Bengal have been a source of optimism for the Gaurs, having scored in all eight of their previous meetings with the Kolkata giants. FC Goa have historically had the upper hand in this fixture, winning the last four encounters and consistently finding the back of the net. However, keeping a clean sheet has proven to be a challenge for the Gaurs, as they’ve only managed one against East Bengal.
Udanta Singh
Under the leadership of Manolo Marquez, FC Goa will look to maintain their scoring streak while aiming to tighten up their defense. Despite starting the season with a 1-1 draw against Mohammedan SC, FC Goa will be determined to register their first win and end their dry spell. Marquez has expressed concerns about his team’s mental fatigue, but the quality within the squad could still turn the tide in their favor.
Conversion Concerns for East Bengal FC
For East Bengal, the ability to create chances has been evident, but converting those opportunities into goals has been a struggle. Despite taking more shots on target than Kerala Blasters in their opening match, the final product was lacking. Carles Cuadrat has been vocal about addressing this issue in training and remains confident that his players will soon find their rhythm.
“We’ve been working on converting chances. It’s all about making the right decision at the right moment. With more training, I’m sure the team will improve,” Cuadrat said in his pre-match press conference.
With Naorem Mahesh Singh leading the team in goal contributions in this fixture historically, East Bengal will hope that the winger can rediscover his form and add to his tally. The home side’s attack will also need to keep an eye on FC Goa’s defense, which has shown vulnerability despite their offensive prowess.
Marquez Looking to Break the Winless Streak
Manolo Marquez’s FC Goa side has struggled to secure victories in the first two games of the season, leaving fans eager for a turnaround. Despite their strong pre-season form, which saw them lift the Bhausaheb Bandodkar Memorial Trophy, the team has looked mentally fatigued. Marquez remains optimistic, however, and knows the quality his players possess.
“We are not in a good moment mentally, but physically and technically we’re fine. I believe we’ll push through this phase and come out stronger,” Marquez said ahead of the clash.
One player to watch is Armando Sadiku, who has been in fine form, scoring in each of his last two ISL games. Should he find the net again on Friday, Sadiku will become the first FC Goa player to score in three consecutive matches at the start of a season—a record he will undoubtedly be eager to set.
Key Players
Naorem Mahesh Singh (East Bengal)
Naorem Mahesh Singh, despite his recent struggles, remains a key figure for East Bengal with his ability to both score and assist. His contribution in this fixture could prove decisive for the home side.
Madih Talal (East Bengal)
Madih Talal has struggled to find his footing since joining East Bengal, with the transition from Punjab FC proving challenging. His performances so far have been below expectations, but a few subpar displays don’t diminish his significant quality in the final third.
Madih Talal
Last season, Talal racked up 16 goal contributions (six goals, 10 assists) in the ISL, and he may only need one standout game to regain his confidence and flair. He must focus on improving his composure in distribution and refining his decision-making in the final third.
Facing a compact FC Goa defense won’t be easy, but Talal can unlock their backline through his intelligent off-the-ball movement and creative touches. The support of thousands of fans at his new home ground could provide the boost he needs, as he aims to inspire his team with slick passes, create clear chances, and time his runs better to return to scoring form.
Armando Sadiku (FC Goa)
On the other hand, FC Goa’s Armando Sadiku will be a focal point in the attack, as he looks to extend his scoring streak.
Armando Sadiku
Brison Fernandes (FC Goa)
Brison Fernandes has been one of FC Goa’s standout performers early in the season, causing problems in the wide areas with his pace and dribbling skills. Beyond his speed, Fernandes has also emerged as a creative force, having generated four goal-scoring opportunities—more than any of his teammates—making him a solid replacement for Brandon Fernandes.
He will aim to secure his first goal contribution by relentlessly pressuring the East Bengal defense with his forward runs and consistently delivering dangerous balls into the final third. To boost FC Goa’s attacking threat and help secure their first win of the season, Fernandes will also need to position himself better for scoring chances.
Additionally, the tactical battle between the two coaches will add another layer of intrigue. Marquez has an unbeaten record against Cuadrat in their last three meetings, and the East Bengal coach will be looking to break that trend in front of a roaring home crowd.
East Bengal FC vs FC Goa: Head-to-Head
Matches Played – 8
East Bengal wins – 1
FC Goa wins – 5
Draws – 2
East Bengal FC vs FC Goa: Injury & Team News
East Bengal FC
East Bengal FC could be without striker Dimitrios Diamantakos due to a minor concern. Injuries also leave Nishu Kumar and Provat Lakra doubtful for the match. Additionally, captain and midfielder Saul Crespo is sidelined with dengue and will be unavailable for the game against FC Goa.
FC Goa
Sandesh Jhingan and Iker Guarrotxena are still doubtful for FC Goa.
East Bengal FC vs FC Goa: Predicted Lineups
East Bengal FC (4-3-3)
Goalkeeper: Prabhsukhan Gill
Defenders: Mohammad Rakip, Anwar Ali, Hector Yuste, Mark Zothanpuia
Forwards: Boris Singh, Brison Fernandes, Armando Sadiku
East Bengal FC vs FC Goa: Match Prediction
Both teams have shown promise, but neither has found that elusive first win of the season. For East Bengal FC, the chance to make history with a consecutive home win beckons, while FC Goa will be looking to maintain their dominance over the Red & Gold Brigade. Friday’s clash promises excitement, and fans can expect a thrilling contest as both sides leave everything on the pitch in search of victory but we predict The Gaurs might just have the last laugh.
Prediction: FC Goa 2-1 East Bengal FC
Where and Where To Watch The Match
The East Bengal vs FC Goa match is set to take place at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata on Friday, September 27. Kick-off is scheduled for 7:30 PM IST. The game will be broadcast live on Sports 18 and can be streamed online via Jio Cinema. International viewers can catch the action on the OneFootball app.
The ISL 2024-25 match between East Bengal FC and FC Goa will be held on Friday, 27 September at the Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata, from 7:30 PM (IST) onwards.
Stefan Sapic is set to become the third new foreigner for Hyderabad FC this season, having agreed a contract with them. The Nizams are moving quickly to assemble their squad, having now recruited three new foreigners into their team.
They previously signed Cy Goddard and have also recruited Allan Paulista to reinforce their attack. And now they have a top player like Sapic to bolster their defence. The player’s arrival is subject to visa clearance, and should take around a week to go through.
Stefan Sapic to join Hyderabad FC as third new foreigner
Hyderabad FC have agreed to Serbian centre-back Stefan Sapic on a multi-year deal and he has officially passed his medical and all other formalities to join his new team. [@khelnow] pic.twitter.com/l3QpdnWF6l
Sapic is currently 27, and has completed his medical for the transfer. Only the formalities need to be completed for his move to go through. It remains to be seen if he will be able to link up with the squad in time for Hyderabad FC’s next game against Chennaiyin FC.
The Serbian last played for Zvijezda 09 in Bosnia, and has experience of playing in the qualifying stages of the Europa Conference League. As a result, he has the potential to be a strong reinforcement.
At 6’8″, Stefan Sapic will likely be one of the tallest players in the league this season. He could be a significant addition to the team, especially with Alex Saji ruled out with a serious injury despite extending his contract.
Hyderabad FC have confirmed the arrival of Jindal India as their new owners on their official social media handles. The takeover was completed before the new ISL season began, and the new owners had to pay off past dues before they could bring in new players.
They have now made payments to uplift the transfer bans in place by FIFA. And over the past few weeks, they have enabled the club to build a squad including three new foreign signings so far.
Hyderabad FC confirm Jindal India group arrival
💥 Hyderabad FC 🤝 Jindal India 💥
We're proud to welcome Jindal India on board as our Principal Sponsor 💪
As the principal sponsor of the club, the company’s logo will be visible on the back of the team’s shirt. It remains to be seen if the new partnership sees them come up with a new kit sponsor after the departure of Hummel.
Moreover, they are yet to announce a front of shirt sponsor for the 24-25 season, which could also help bring in more revenue. As things stand, the Nizams are yet to win any of their opening games, having lost to Bengaluru FC and Punjab FC.
But as the squad gets settled, there is optimism that things could change in due course.
Manolo Marquez’s next game in charge of India has seemingly been confirmed. The Blue Tigers will host Malaysia during the next international break, which will take place on November 19, 2024.
The AIFF confirmed the fixture on their official Twitter account, and said that the time and venue for the match would be confirmed later. The two teams last met in the Merdeka Cup 2023 semifinal, where the Blues lost 4-2.
India to host Malaysia in November friendly fixture
🔴 The Senior India Men’s team will play a friendly match against Malaysia during the FIFA Window on November 19, 2024.
The match will be played in India, the venue for which will be announced later.
Malaysia are currently ranked 132rd in the FIFA ranking, while India are ranked 126th. It will be interesting to see how the hosts fare in their next assignment under Marquez, given their lackluster performance in the Intercontinental Cup this summer.
After several gameweeks of ISL action, the players will no doubt be much more fit and sharp. As a result, Manolo Marquez could benefit from the steady flow of games heading into the next international break. A constant run of games would also allow the new head coach to choose players in form to call up to the national team.
It remains to be seen where the match will be played and if Marquez can come away with a much needed win.
