AIFF extends India coach Stimac’s contract until 2026
NEW DELHI, Oct 5: Senior national team head coach Igor Stimac’s contract has been extended until 2026, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) announced on Thursday, rewarding him for overseeing three title triumphs this year.As per the contract, the Croat will automatically get an extension by another two years if India qualify for the third round of FIFA World Cup Qualifiers.Former India stopper Mahesh Gawli, the assistant coach of the senior men’s team, was appointed as the head coach of the men’s U-23 team.Stimac, a member of the Croatia side that finished third at the 1998 FIFA World Cup in France, took charge of the Blue Tigers in 2019 and has won four major titles with the side, including two SAFF Championships. Former India stopper Mahesh Gawli, the assistant coach of the senior men’s team, was appointed as the head coach of the men’s U-23 team. (PTI)
Punjab FC to face NortEast United in their first home game
NEW DELHI, Oct 5: Punjab FC (PFC) will face NorthEast United FC (NEUFC) in their first home game of the Indian Super League 2023-24 season tomorrow which will be played here at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. The third round match is scheduled to kick-off at 8 PM. PFC will look to bounce back from back to back losses in the previous two matches.Punjab FC lost their previous match in a close encounter away from home against FC Goa by a solitary goal. The team will be looking to open their account in the league with a spirited performance against NEUFC who beat Chennaiyin FC 3-0 in their previous encounter.Speaking ahead of the game, PFC Head Coach Staikos Vergetis said, “We are very excited for the game.” (Agencies)