Weekly Wrap: Indian football transfers, Euro 2020 build-up and more

It was a memorable past week in the world of sports.

The 2020-21 football season witnessed an extraordinary end as Villarreal stunned Manchester United to lift the UEFA Europa League. On the other hand, Chelsea edged Manchester City for UEFA Champions League triumph on Saturday. A lot of other memorable developments took place in the world of sports in general.

Here’s a look back to a glorious week in sports.

Indian Football

Two overseas players included in Bangladesh squad for FIFA World Cup Qualifiers

Bangladesh announced a 25-member squad for their upcoming FIFA World Cup 2022 Qualifiers campaign. Interestingly, two overseas players – Jamal Bhuyan and Tariq Kazi are part of the roster. Kazi has previously played for the Finland U-19 team and currently plies trade for Bashundhara Kings. Meanwhile, Denmark-born Bhuyan recently appeared for Mohammedan SC in the I-League 2020-21 season.

Analysing India’s back-four options for FIFA World Cup qualifiers

Indian football team head coach Igor Stimac has named a strong midfield in his 28-man squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2022 Qualifiers. This is arguably the best department in the current squad and could potentially make or break the Blue Tigers’ campaign in Doha.

Stimac could be planning on playing a formation where the midfield is heavily packed. But who among the midfielders should get picked first? Khel Now takes a look at the options.

FC Goa’s Sanson Pereira feels Persepolis were the biggest challenge in ACL

FC Goa endured a memorable campaign in the AFC Champions League 2021. Several domestic stars rose to limelight with their high-spirited performances against the Asian heavyweights. Sanson Pereira was one such starlet who grabbed eyeballs with his relentless displays from the full-back position.

In an exclusive interview with Khel Now, Sanson Pereira spoke on a host of topics, including his ACL campaign and future.

Kerala Blasters make seventh birthday memorable, donate 10000 N95 masks

On Thursday, Indian Super League (ISL) club Kerala Blasters celebrated their seventh birthday. They made their special day all the more memorable by extending their support to the fight against COVID-19. The Kochi-based club donated 10000 N95 masks to the Government of Kerala on the same day that marked their seventh year of existence.

Rahul KP signs as first-ever South Indian brand ambassador of MyFitness

MyFitness, India’s first U.S.FDA Registered Peanut Butter brand, by India’s Fitness and youth ICON awardee Sahil Khan has enlisted India’s Football Prodigy Rahul KP as their first-ever sports brand ambassador from Southern India. This Interesting partnership will further help increase the reach for the brand and amplify the messaging and premium positioning in India.

AIFF hand short-term contract extension to India boss Igor Stimac

Indian football team head coach Igor Stimac received a boost ahead of his side’s World Cup Qualifying campaign in Doha. The AIFF Technical Committee unanimously decided to extend the Croatian tactician’s contract till September 2021. The Committee will meet again in September to discuss the future pathway forward.

Gokulam Kerala retain Afghan midfielder Sharif Mukhammad

Gokulam Kerala have extended the contract of foreign player Sharif Mukhammad for the upcoming season. The Afghan national midfielder played a pivotal role for the Malabarians’ previous season to help the club lift its maiden I-League title.

Kerala Blasters sign Harmanjot Khabra on multi-year deal

Khel Now can confirm can Harmanjot Khabra has joined Kerala Blasters on a multi-year deal after leaving Bengaluru FC. Khabra won the Indian Super League title with Bengaluru FC after joining them in 2017 from Chennaiyin FC.

World Football

Villarreal stun Manchester United to write their name sports folklore

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Chelsea beat Manchester City to lift second Champions League title

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Top five players who are set to miss UEFA Euro 2020

The UEFA Euro 2020 is knocking on the door with the domestic football seasons coming to conclusion. Many national associations have already announced their squads for the quadrennial sports tournament; however, some key players have missed out. Khel Now takes a look at five players who will not feature at the UEFA Euro 2020 and how their unavailability could hurt their teams’ chances.

Why Euro 2020 will be Croatia’s chance to become Europe’s best?

Croatia came inches close to victory in the FIFA World Cup 2018 in Russia when they reached an unprecedented final. Unfortunately, they were outplayed by a mighty France in the ultimate game of the tournament to lift the trophy. Nevertheless, Croatia won many hearts with their performances and the UEFA Euro 2020 could well be their chance to seal a historic title victory.

Top five youngsters to look out for at Copa America 2021

Besides the Euro 2020, Copa America 2021 too is around the corner and will kickstart on 13th June. Defending champions Brazil are one of the contenders for the title once again with the brilliant players they have in their squad. However, the Selecao aren’t the only squad that consists of magnificent youngsters. Khel Now takes a look at the top five youngsters to watch out for in Copa Amercia 2021.

Olympic Sports

Northern Railways suspend Sushil Kumar after arrest in murder case

Northern Railways have announced the suspension of celebrated wrestler Sushil Kumar following his arrest by Delhi Police. The suspension will remain in place until further orders are issued. The 37-year-old was a senior commercial manager with the Northern Railways. But they sent him on deputation to the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) in 2015.

Mary Kom storms into final of Asian Boxing Championships

Ace India boxer Mary Kom made her way into the final after defeating Lutsaikhan Altantsetseg in the women’s 51kg semi-final at the 2021 ASBC Asian Boxing Championships in Dubai on Thursday.

Why Rafael Nadal is the King of Clay?

On a rampaging run at French Open, Rafael Nadal will look to extend his winning streak at Roland Garros. Khel Now takes a look at what makes Nadal the king of clay.

Five players to watch out at French Open

Every Grand Slam presents an opportunity for young stars to break through while some careers enter their twilight. As the latest edition of the French Open begins, we take a look at the top five players to watch out at the tournament.

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