THIRUVANANTHAPURAM:The ball may be rolling in Russia but the football spirit is no less here. The excitement can barely be contained as world’s best teams fight it out at the group stage of FIFA 2018 World Cup.Busy they might be, but people from all walks of life find time to follow the matches. T’Puram Express takes a look at the reactions of a few football enthusiasts as they reminisce about their tryst with the game.
V S Sunil Kumar, Agriculture Minister
Football is in my blood right from my childhood. I was a member of a local football club at my native place Anthikad called the ‘Golden Arrows’. I was a defender and we used to play daily as it was our sole entertainment during my college days when I was active in politics. As for World Cup, I have been watching every match for the past three decades. Though I am an ardent fan of Brazil, the match between Portugal and Spain in this World Cup was outstanding. The match between Poland and Senegal was also good. Senegal is a dark horse. I hope the team would see the semifinals. I am also hoping that Brazil makes it to the finals.
Kadannappally Ramachandran, Ports Minister
I am from Kannur and we are always enthusiastic about football.
During my college days, I used to watch the matches played on my college ground. It was a real treat. I am a fan of Brazil and I believe they are the true champions. This time, I have watched only the inaugural match between Russia and Saudi Arabia. Nevertheless, I am planning to catch more matches.
A C Moideen, Sports Minister
I can’t forget the days spent playing football with my friends in my native place. I am a big fan of Germany. Though the team lost the first match, I am confident that they will get back soon. Not just in the World Cup, I always watch Germany play. Football is a game which can help us to grow mentally and physically.
Asif Shaheer, Former football player
This time, the World Cup is special and interesting. The number of teams has increased. I have been watching all the matches. I am an Argentina fan and my favourite player is Messi. It is good to see football being celebrated in Kerala. Post ISL, parents take interest in getting their children trained in football. Earlier this sport was not opted by many.
V P Shaji, Football player
Football matches are like an energy booster for me. All the teams are good in their own aspects, be it striking the ball past the goal post or kicking the football to the defensive team. As more teams have come up, the thrill has also doubled. When we used to play, only a few people appreciated football and we didn’t even have a proper ground then. But now, more local teams are coming up and children wish to play at a professional level.