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FOOTBALL - Int News 09 Aug, 2024

Domestic football returns with the Saudi Super Cup 2024 in Abha

Sports Bulletin ReportRiyadh (Saudi Arabia): The Saudi Super Cup, the traditional curtain raiser in Saudi Arabian football, is set to ignite the 2024-25 season with an opening weekend of high-intensity football and fierce competition as the first matches of the new season kick off in Abha this week.Hosted in the Prince Sultan bin Abdul Aziz Stadium in the picturesque city of Abha for the first time, the top four teams from Saudi Arabian football’s historic 2023-24 season will compete for the first honours of the new season.As the top four finishers in the Roshn Saudi League (RSL) in the previous season, Al Nassr, Al Ahli, Al Taawoun and domestic treble winners Al Hilal will compete for the prestigious trophy to open the campaign.Following Al Hilal's record fourth Super Cup win in April, this year's tournament will continue with the expanded four-team format introduced in 2023. The semi-final phase will see Al Hilal begin their campaign against Al Ahli on 13 August, while Al Nassr take on Al Taawoun on 14 August in Abha. The winners will then proceed to the Saudi Super Cup final, set to kick off at 7.15pm local time on Saturday 17 August.As the domestic treble-winners last season, Al Hilal is aiming to maintain their flawless form from the 2023-24 campaign which saw the Riyadh side secure their record 19th league title under Portuguese manager, Jorge Jesus. Portugal’s Ruben Neves, Serbian duo Aleksandr Mitrovic and Sergej Milinković-Savić, and the returning Neymar are all set to feature in the season-opening competition in Abha.Returning for their second top-flight season, Al Ahli will provide a tough test for last year’s champions as the Jeddah team aims to secure their first Super Cup victory since 2016. With a strong pre-season featuring the return of international stars in Edouard Mendy, Riyad Mahrez and Roberto Firmino, the opening match in Saudi Arabian football will provide a lively start to the new season.Al Nassr, led by Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, have their sights set on redemption going into the new season, after a dramatic penalty shoot-out loss in the King’s Cup final to end a difficult campaign. With new signing Brazilian goalkeeper Bento set to feature, the Riyadh side will be aiming to add to their two previous successes in the Saudi Super Cup.

FOOTBALL - National 09 Aug, 2024

National Women's Football: Legacy FC, Karachi City reach the final

Sports Bulletin ReportISLAMABAD: Legacy FC and Karachi City FC have secured their spots in the final of the National Women's Football Club Championship 2024, following their impressive performances in the semi-final matches held at Jinnah Sports Complex, Islamabad. Karachi City FC will face Legacy FC in the final on Saturday (August 10, 2024), at 8:30 pm at the same venue.In the first semi-final, Legacy FC showcased their dominance on the field with a resounding 6-0 victory over Karachi United. Eman Mustafa was the star of the match, delivering an outstanding performance with four goals. Kayanat Bukhari also contributed significantly, scoring a brace to secure the win for Legacy FC.The second semi-final saw Karachi City FC display their prowess, overwhelming Hazara Quetta with an 8-0 triumph. Zahmena Malik and Suha Hirani each scored a brace, while Nadia, Zulfia, Sanah and Aliza added a goal each, ensuring Karachi City FC's place in the final.

FOOTBALL - National 07 Aug, 2024

National Women's Football Club Championship 2024

Karachi United, Legacy FC, Karachi City FC, and Hazara Quetta WFC qualify for semifinalsSports Bulletin ReportISLAMABAD: Karachi United, Legacy FC, Karachi City FC, and Hazara Quetta WFC moved into the semifinals of the National Women's Football Club Championship 2024 after winning their respective matches at Pakistan Sports Complex Islamabad on Wednesday.Legacy FC showcased their dominance with a 3-0 victory over TWK. Eman, Kayanat, and Alina each scored a goal, demonstrating their exceptional skills and teamwork.In the last group match of the final stage, Hazara FC faced off against Highlanders FC in a closely contested battle. Hazara FC emerged victorious with a 2-1 win. Farishta and Sadiqa were the goal scorers for Hazara, while Sosan opened the scoring for the Highlanders.Karachi United will face Legacy FC in the first semi-final of the National Women's Football Club Championship 2024 on August 8 at 5:30 PM at Jinnah Football Stadium, Islamabad followed by the second semi-final between Karachi City FC and Hazara Quetta WFC at 8:30 PM.

FOOTBALL - Int News 28 Jul, 2024

Pakistan Street Child Football Team stun hosts Astor Football Club 6-1

Sports Bulletin ReportOslo (Norway): Pakistan Street Child Football Team outclassed hosts Astor Football Club 6-1 by showing impressive performance in their opening match of the Norway Cup 2024 here on Sunday.Astor Football Club scored the first goal in the first half of the match against the Green Shirts, after a few moments, Pakistan equalized the match 1-1. In the second half of the match, the Pakistani street child football team scored 5 goals in a row, Abdul Ghani scored 2 goals, Isa, Junaid, Owais and Mohammad Khan scored one each.Mohammad Adeel, the captain of the national street child football team, spoke after the match said: “We have practiced hard and learned new techniques, God willing, we won the matches, the morale of the players is high with this victory.”The national street child football team played their second group match on July 29 against Vardenset Football Club of Norway. It is pertinent to mention here that Pakistan national street child football team has been the runner-up in Norway Cup 2023.

FOOTBALL - Int News 27 Jul, 2024

Pakistan Street Child Football Team arrive in Oslo for Norway Cup

Sports Bulletin ReportOslo (Norway): Pakistan Street Child Football Team players and officials have arrived Oslo in the capital city of Norway to participate in Norway Cup Football Festival 2024.Pakistan team departed from Islamabad International Airport at 5 am on July 27 for Norway, Oslo to participate in Norway Cup 2024. The national team consists of 22 member squad which includes Mohammad Kashif, Isa Khan, Shahid Anjum, Abdul Ghani, Mohammad Junaid, Mohammad Khan, Daniyal Owais, Mohammad Usama and defenders, Asad Nasir, Obaidullah, Mohammad Adeel, Hamza Gul. Goalkeeper, Aryan, Adeel Ali Khan are part of the squad.Pakistan Street Child Football Team will play their first match on July 28 against Astor Football Club of Norway, second match on July 29 against Vardenset Football Club of Norway and third match of the group on July 30 against Norwegian club. Mohammad Adeel will lead Pakistan team. Pakistani players were runner-up in the held Street Child Football World Cup, while the Norway Cup finished second in 2015 and third in 2016.

FOOTBALL - Int News 26 Jul, 2024

SAFF announces season-II Women’s Clubs Development Fund Program

Sports Bulletin ReportRiyadh (Saudi Arabia): The Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) announces season two of the Women’s Football Clubs Development Fund Program, continuing its commitment to nurturing and promoting women’s football across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.For the 2024-25 season, the total support fund has increased to SAR 60 million, representing a SAR 10 million rise allocated in the previous season, reflecting SAFF’s dedication to further developing women’s football.Building on the success of the inaugural season, this season’s program will extend its support to 70 women’s football clubs participating in various competitions, including the SAFF Women's Premier League, SAFF Women's First Division League, SAFF Women's Second Division League, SAFF Women's Cup, SAFF Women’s U-17 Tournament, and the Women’s Futsal Tournament.As part of the enhanced program for the new season, SAFF has introduced new criteria to ensure the continuous growth and professional development of women’s football. These new criteria for women’s football clubs include:Sponsorship criteria requiring clubs to attract sponsorsScouting criteria mandating the appointment of an official scout by clubsMedical criteria requiring clubs to appoint a doctor and issue medical reportsFans criteria encouraging increased attendance at matchesNutrition criteria requiring clubs to appoint a nutrition specialistTechnology criteria mandating the use of GPS to assess players' fitness levelsLamia Bahaian, Vice President SAFF said: "We've seen incredible progress in women's football over the past year, and the increased support fund for this season is a clear indication of our commitment to pushing even further. Our aim is to create more opportunities for women in football and build a strong foundation for the sport in Saudi Arabia. With the expansion of our program, we're not only increasing the number of participating clubs but also enhancing the quality of the teams participating in our competitions. We're focused on providing the necessary resources and support to help our players, coaches, and teams thrive. This season promises to be an exciting chapter for women's football, and we're eager to see the continued growth and success of our athletes."Last season, significant strides were made with the hiring of 18 Saudi coaches, and 91% of clubs’ head coaches now hold an A coaching license. Additionally, 24% of clubs have coaches with a pro license, highlighting the increasing professionalization within women's football.Further achievements include the establishment of Under-17 teams by 56% of the clubs, providing a platform for young female footballers to develop their skills. The commitment to nurturing homegrown talent is also evident with 87 professional contracts signed with Saudi players, marking a significant milestone in the development of women's football in the Kingdom.As SAFF embarks on this new season, it remains committed to fostering an inclusive and dynamic football environment that empowers women and young girls to pursue their passion for the sport. The significant increase in funding and the expansion of support services demonstrate SAFF's ongoing dedication to elevating women's football.

FOOTBALL - Int News 24 Jul, 2024

Saudi Pro League and Saudi Arabian Football Federation Partner with IMG

Sports Bulletin ReportRiyadh (Saudi Arabia): The Saudi Pro League (SPL) and Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) have announced a new five-year production partnership with IMG, a global sports, events, and representation company, for the Roshn Saudi League (RSL), King’s Cup, and Saudi Super Cup, starting from the 2024-25 season.This season will mark a significant shift for the SPL and SAFF, as IMG takes on the role of broadcast producer for the RSL, King’s Cup, and Saudi Super Cup, in partnership with the SPL and SAFF, combining the expertise of local partners with IMG’s world-class production experience and capabilities. The strategic collaboration will ensure best-in-class production quality, innovation and consistency across all RSL, Saudi Super Cup, and King’s Cup matches.The 2024-25 season broadcast of the RSL, King’s Cup, and Saudi Super Cup will feature more dynamic storytelling and captivating content that highlights the excitement of the matches and celebrates the rich culture and passion that drive the sport. This will enable partners to offer deeper insights, as well as more engaging and entertaining narratives, enhancing the viewing experience for fans around the world and fostering a deeper connection with the league.Omar Mugharbel, CEO of the Saudi Pro League, said: “Our new production partnership marks a significant step forward for the SPL as we continue our transformation and growth on and off the pitch. Our collaboration with IMG reflects our commitment to bring world-class production standards to Saudi football with the league the central host producer. By leveraging the expertise of IMG and maintaining strong partnerships with local and regional distributors, the SPL is poised to deliver an unparalleled football viewing experience to fans around the world through technology, innovation and talent.”Barney Francis, EVP of Studios at IMG, said: “Saudi Pro League is one of the most exciting and fastest-growing leagues in global football, with fans around the world now tuning in to watch thrilling action between some of the game’s biggest stars. In today’s battle for attention, it’s critical for rightsholders to take control of their narrative and innovate. We are excited to help SPL take its content offering and storytelling to the next level for viewers and broadcasters, and to provide opportunities for local broadcast and production talent to be part of the journey.”

FOOTBALL - National 22 Jul, 2024

Women's Football Club Championship kicks off in four cities

Sports Bulletin ReportISLAMABAD: The National Women's Football Club Championship 2024 commenced with a thrilling first day, featuring five matches across four cities.In the first match held in Lahore, TWK delivered a commanding performance against YRS WFC, securing an emphatic 21-0 victory. Legacy WFC displayed their dominance in the second match in Islamabad, overwhelming Smurfs WFC with a remarkable 9-0 win.Karachi hosted two big matches. In the third match, Karachi City WFC achieved a historic victory by defeating Jahangir Memorial WFC with a phenomenal score of 44-0. The fourth match saw Karachi United WFC, triumphing over Young Muslim WFC with a decisive 9-0 victory.In the final match of the day held in Quetta, Hazara Quetta Women FC showcased their skill by defeating Balochistan WFC with a convincing 8-0 score.

FOOTBALL - Int News 22 Jul, 2024

Pakistan Street Child Football Team announced for Norway Cup 2024

Abdul Jabbar FaisalISLAMABAD: A 15-member Pakistan Street Child Football Team has been announced for the Norway Cup 2024, which will be kicked-off on July 27, as Green Shirts will face Astor Club Norway in their first match on July 28 in Oslo, an official of Muslim Hands Zia Noor and Chairman, Prime Minister’s Youth Program Rana Mashood Ahmed Khan jointly unfolded the squad in a press conference at Jinnah Hall, Pakistan Sports Complex on Sunday. Zia Noor Mustafa said: “Mohammad Adeel will lead in the national team in the event while Mohammad Rasheed will travel with the team as a coach. We selected the players on merit. We picked up the players from remote areas of the country and provide occasion to excel at international level to raise the national flag in international sports arenas. We need support from the government to create more opportunities to boys for good education and health as well. We are getting donation to run our affairs. In the last edition of Norway Cup our team was second in the world.”Rana Mashood said: “Pakistani youth has tremendous talent of sports and our government trying its best to provide maximum opportunities to youth in all departments including sports. There were 16 sports disciplines in the Prime Minister’s Youth Program and will be increased the number of sports up to 23 this year. Muslim Hands doing very important role to promote the street child in the field of football, which is most popular game in the world. We will support to this noble cause of Muslim hands. I hope our players will toil hard and win the tournament.” Names of players: Aryan Khan, Adeel Ali Khan (Goalkeepers), Asad Nasir, Obaid-ullah, Mohammad Adeel, Hamza Gull (Defenders), Mohammad Junaid, Mohammad Khan, Mohammad Danyal Khan, Mohammad Owais, Mohammad Usama (Midfielders), Mohammad Kashif, Essa Khan, Shahid Anjum, Abdul Ghani (Forwards).

FOOTBALL - National 12 Jul, 2024

PFF announces Women’s Football Club Championship schedule

Sports Bulletin ReportLAHORE: The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) has announced the schedule of the National Women’s Football Club Championship 2024, as this premier women’s football event will feature initial rounds in four cities: Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi, and Quetta from July 21 to July 26, 2024. According to an official of PFF, three teams including TWK FC, Real Lahore WFC, and Young Rising Stars FC will compete in Lahore. Four teams, Balochistan WFC, Quetta Women FC, Hazara Quetta Women FC, and Hazara United FC, will play against eachother in Quetta.In Islamabad, six teams will vie for the final round. Legacy WFC, Gilgit WFC, and Smurfs WFC will be in Group A while Group B will consist of Highlanders WFC, Strikers WFC, and Nawansher United FC.The championship's final round will take place in Islamabad from August 1 to August 10, 2024. The top teams from 8 groups will compete for the coveted title. The semi-final is scheduled for August 8 and the final will be held on August 10 at Jinnah Stadium, Islamabad.Karachi will host 13 teams, divided into four groups.Group A: Karachi United FC, MUK WFC, Young Muslim FCGroup B: Karachi City WFC, Mohsen Gillani WFC, Jahangir MemorialGroup C: Dya WFC, Overseas WFC, Baloch Muhammadan WFCGroup D: Jafa WFC, Karachi Women FC, Shaheed Benazir Bhutto WFC, Hazara Girls FC