Team Herald
RAIA: Thousands of former football players, ex-international, former national and State players and Curtorim villagers in large numbers paid homage to former India defender Anthony Rebello, who passed away on Monday. He was laid to rest at Curtorim Cemetery today.
There was a pall of gloom as his body reached the St Alex Church after being kept at the Curtorim ground.
The funeral service was led by Fr. Milagres Dias, Chaplain of Our Lady of Carmel Chapel, Curtorim. In his homily, Fr Milagres stressed on how we should live our life and that we need to be prepared for death at any time as we do not know when we shall face death. He highlighted the qualities of head and heart of Anthony who rose to become a football legend by sheer dint of hard work and persevearance.
In their eulogy, rich tributes were paid by Armando Colaco, Savio Fernandes and Arnaldo Costa
Meanwhile, condoling his death, AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey said: “Rebello was one of the most respected defenders of his time because of his skills and never-say-die approach. My heart goes out to his family in this hour of grief. May his soul rest in peace.”
Secretary General Dr. Shaji Prabhakaran said: “Rebello was a central defender, who played football with lots of passion and remained a big name in domestic football for many years. The Indian football family is deeply saddened by his demise.”
Angelius Rebello of Rebello Pandal Maina, Teo Gomes, James D'Costa, Savio Medeira, Andrew Ferrao also condoled the death of Anthony.