Lionel Messi's GOAT Tour began amid chaos and vandalism at the Salt Lake Stadium, but for former India players Dipendu Biswas and Syed Rahim Nabi, it still turned into the moment of a lifetime in Kolkata on Saturday.
Kerala lad Denson Devadas struck twice as Bengal made a spectacular comeback to beat Punjab 2-1, ending their 11 years title drought in the 64th National Football Championship for Santosh Trophy in Kolkata.
Mohun Bagan continued their dream run in the I-League, taking their winning streak to four matches by overcoming stiff resistance from Air India and recording a hard-fought 3-2 victory at Kalyani Stadium, in Kolkata on Saturday.
Kolkata challengers Prayag United registered a 2-1 victory over Sporting Clube de Goa on Thursday to set up a semi-final clash against seven-time champions East Bengal in the 33rd Federation Cup football tournament.
Bengal's star performer Denson Devadas might be a Keralite but the regional factor does not matter for the diminutive midfielder.
Surojit Bose played for India under coach Sukhwinder Singh from 2004-08 and was instrumental in Mahindra United's NFL triumph in 2005-06.
FC Goa's chief coach Zico will arrive in the state on July 6 to take stock of all new signings.
The national football players are providing the needy, in their respective localities, monetary aid and food items, besides setting up camps and spreading awareness about social distancing.
National football team coach Wim Koevermans has announced his squad of 21 players for India's two international friendlies which are scheduled to be held this month.
Brazilian striker Elano Blumer and Spaniard Koke scored two superb goals for their respective sides as Chennaiyin FC and NorthEast United played out a high-octane 2-2 draw in the Indian Super League match in Chennai.
Chennaiyin FC produced a clinical performance and pumped in goals in the second half to thrash Mumbai City FC 3-0 to consolidate their position at the top of the table in Indian Super League at the DY Patil Stadium.