The Football World Cup 2010 is on and all crazy football fans are excited, glued to the TV screen all evening, watching the thrilling one and half hour event and silently praying for their favorite team to win. As an Indian, it is difficult for me to chose a team to support. There are 32 nations playing but where is India??
Back in 1950 when India was invited to play the Football World Cup, India could not participate in the event, the reason being our players were not allowed to play barefoot. Shortly after independence, were we that poor a country that affording 11-12 shoes would have been a herculean task? Probably the answer lies with the then Government or with Mr Nehru. Sadly, India never ever qualified again for FIFA WC despite being the second most populous nation. Is this because we are only interested in Cricket which is worshiped by many in this country or is it because of the lack of infrastructure for football. Kolkata is the only place where people are passionate about this sport, with East Bengal and Mohan Bagan, the two famous teams in this eastern city and the religious fan following by people, rest other states are into oblivion. However, the english champion league or the world cup football is followed across the country by football fans. Then why the sports ministry is not doing anything about this sports. What we need to do now is to develop a culture for football playing in this country otherwise it will always remain a dream for India to ever qualify for this wonderful game. Its a long journey but if seriously taken will not be difficult.
As far as this world cup is concerned, I am supporting Argentina and Messi remains my favorite player :)
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