Every once in a while, India gets to be a part of an extravagant event, unique in nature, with a magnitude that can be compared to international standards. It all began in Chennai with the legendary A R Rahman performing the anthem of the Premier Futsal League followed by the opening match between Chennai and Mumbai. But that was in Chennai. Today, it’s all about Goa. When Ronaldinho and his men enter the stadium in Mapusa,the young and the old will once again unite to support their home team.
“ It was the twenty-first of June, 2002. I was watching the quarter finals match between Brazil and England. I was always a Brazilian supporter, but being a fan of David Beckham, I was supporting England in this particular game. England had the lead until Brazil equalised. Eight minutes past the equaliser, Ronaldinho scored a brilliant free kick. It’s hard to describe it in words, everyone should have a look at the video online; it’s a very impressive goal, “ enthuses Charlton Karl Vaz, a football player who owns Youth Futsal Academy along with his family. He continues, “ Everything that Ronaldinho does on the field is graceful and beautiful to watch. He is always smiling when he plays. And that is the magic of seeing him on the football field. He underperformed in the first game, but made up for it in his second. When Goa plays today, I would like to see more of Michael Silva, as I have played with him at a futsal league in Pune. I’d also like to see Goan lads be more influential in building the attack in all the upcoming games.”
Lionel Rodrigues, working in the field of sales and marketing, from Raia, agrees with Charlton. “Goa could have played better in their first game. But with Ronaldinho scoring five goals, and Rafael creating so many opportunities in the second game, I’m looking forward to seeing another win today. It is also good to see Goan talent like Fredsan Marshall perform well ”
With regard to the introduction of such a league to an Indian audience, Conrad Baretto, co-owner of the Football Dug Out, states that it’s a great initiative as it creates awareness about a form of football that enhances passing, technique, ball control, flair and versatility.
So will the samba boy create his magic along with Goan talent and deliver another win when they face Kolkata today? Says Craig Menezes, ““I’m expecting, a big win, like the previous game. Ronaldinho, is a legend of the game. With him, in Team Goa, I hope to see another victory, on home ground.” With every Goan by their side, chanting victory on their home soil, the only thought that many ponder on is, Why Not?
