Football

AIFF felicitates Sunil after Kuwait game

Published

1 year ago

June 7, 2024

Ray Sportz News Desk: The show didn’t go the way it was expected, at least for the huge number of Indian fans present at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan on Thursday, June 6, 2024, but it didn’t stop them from showering love and appreciation on Sunil Chhetri, who played his 151st and last international match in the goalless draw against Kuwait.

There were big cheers from the crowd as India’s all-time highest scorer in international football walked up on the dais on the pitch to receive a plaque that was handed over to him by the All India Football President Kalyan Chaubey.

The plaque that Mr. Chaubey presented to Chhetri on behalf of the Indian Football fraternity, said:

Dear Sunil,

You have been a gem in the crown of Indian football and a pride of the nation. Your achievement on the field, complemented by your demeanour off it, holds us spellbound. You have been a star on the Indian Football horizon since the momentous day you stepped onto the field in the Blue jersey. The star never stopped shining and like a luminous point in the night sky, it dazzled brighter for nearly two decades to accomplish amplified altitudes. We watched in awe as you guided Indian Football past many impediments and inspired generations to embrace the Beautiful Game.

Now, 19 years and 151 International caps later, as you have decided to enter a new life post-international football today, we remain firmly gripped by nostalgia. You have filled our hearts with extraordinary emotions that we will share with our family and friends until our last days. With your millions of fans, we will miss your great deeds on the field. Rest assured, your stunning skills, your exhilarating leadership, and your humility will forever be part of Indian Football’s folklore.

Thank you for everything you have accomplished and good luck with everything you will do in the future.

On behalf of the Indian Football fraternity
Kalyan Chaubey
President, All India Football Federation

Chhetri spoke briefly, saying: “To all my supporters, I thank all of you. These 19 years would not have been possible without each one of you. I genuinely mean it. All of you who are here, thank you so much. I will speak from my heart, all of you have been great. Stay happy, and thank you again.”

The Indian captain was also felicitated by the Indian Football Association, Mohun Bagan, East Bengal, Mohammedan Sporting, the Indian Army and senior ministers of the Government of West Bengal.

Related Topics:Featured Football Sunil Chhetri

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Football

CAS Verdict Restores Glory: Inter Kashi Crowned I-League Champions

Published

2 days ago

July 18, 2025

Ray Sportz

Ray Sportz Web Desk: In a dramatic twist to the I-League 2024–25 season, Inter Kashi have officially been declared champions after the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) overturned the All India Football Federation (AIFF) Appeals Committee’s earlier ruling that had penalized the club.
The AIFF had previously stripped Inter Kashi of crucial points, citing the fielding of an allegedly ineligible player, thereby handing the title to Churchill Brothers. However, CAS ruled on July 18 that the deduction was unjustified, restoring Inter Kashi’s full points tally and their place atop the league with 42 points.
Following the CAS verdict, the AIFF confirmed it would comply with the decision, clearing the path for Inter Kashi to be officially recognized as the 2024–25 I-League champions. Churchill Brothers and Real Kashmir finished second and third respectively.
This marks a historic moment for Inter Kashi, who now look set for promotion to the Indian Super League (ISL), pending formalities.

East Bengal

East Bengal Boosts Squad with Trio of Foreign Signings

Published

2 days ago

July 18, 2025

Ray Sportz

Ray Sportz Web Desk: Emami East Bengal FC has strengthened its squad for the 2025–26 season by signing Brazilian midfielder Miguel Figueira, Palestinian midfielder Mohammed Rashid, and Argentine defender Kevin Sibille.
All three players bring international experience and are expected to play key roles under head coach Oscar Bruzon. Figueira reunites with Bruzon after a successful stint at Bangladesh’s Bashundhara Kings. Rashid, a regular for the Palestinian national team, adds defensive solidity to the midfield, while Sibille, a River Plate Academy graduate, arrives from Spanish side SD Ponferradina to bolster the defense.
Coach Bruzon expressed confidence in the trio’s ability to make an immediate impact. “These are quality players who fit our tactical framework,” he said.
The players expressed excitement at joining East Bengal and looked forward to playing in front of passionate Kolkata fans.

East Bengal

Mumbai to Kolkata: Bipin Singh Begins New Chapter with East Bengal

Published

1 week ago

July 13, 2025

Ray Sportz

Ray Sportz Web Desk: Indian national team winger Bipin Singh Thounaojam has officially joined Emami East Bengal FC on a two-year contract, with an option to extend for a further year. The 29-year-old joins the Red & Gold Brigade on a free transfer from Mumbai City FC, where he spent seven years, making a record 158 appearances and scoring 28 goals with 17 assists.
Renowned for his speed and attacking flair, Bipin will wear jersey number 29. Welcoming him, Emami East Bengal’s Head of Football Thangboi Singto praised Bipin’s creativity and goal-scoring prowess, while Head Coach Oscar Bruzon highlighted his international pedigree and experience as key to strengthening the squad.
Bipin, who made his India debut in 2021, expressed excitement about joining the historic club, vowing to give his all to help East Bengal win titles and create memories for the fans.