India need 100s of Bhaichung: Delhi Soccer Association VP
Though India lost the match, 4-0, against Bayern Munich, still, there are some positive outcomes from the match, which was played yesterday at JL stadium. Merinews.com spoke to Menla Ethnapa and N.K. Bhatia, who talked about the same.
FOOTBALL FANS had come out in good numbers at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium yesterday, to watch Bhaichung Bhutia for the last time in Indian colours. It was a farewell game for the Indian star, who has given us memories to cherish many a times. Menla Ethnapa, General Secretary for Sikkim Football Association, was very pleased with the way the match had been organised with Bayern Munich, one of the best clubs in Europe. While speaking to merinews.com, he said, “The AIFF could not have a better arranged farewell for the legend from Sikkim”.
Though, the Indian team lost the match with a score line reading 4-0, in favour of Bayern, there were several players who were impressed with India’s showing. Bayern Munich star, Robben said that the Indian team have good speed. Their coach, Jupp Heynckes was impressed with the way Indians closed the gaps on the pitch, as reported by The Times of India. These are positive comments for Indian football from such prominent names in international football.
There was a stark difference between the two teams playing on the field. Bayern Munich’s lineup included players such as Robben, Muller, P.Lahm, Schweinsteiger, and Boateng just to name among a host of international stars in their side. Ethnapa says, “Everybody knew about the fate of the match, but, the Indians put up a decent show especially in the second half, where they did not, let in any goals”. There have been some improvements upon their performance, as they were not trashed by Bayern, which many had expected. The Indians drew a sorry figure, when they were taking on tall Munich players.
N.K. Bhatia, Vice President for Delhi Soccer Association said, “Matches like these are bound to help the Indian players, as it could give them the much needed exposure against stronger teams. These are all welcome signs for Indian football." Many top football clubs across the
world are looking to tap into the lucrative Indian market, but India also should set its standard to attract them. Bhatia puts a point very aptly, “India need 100s of Bhaichung”.
The Indian football team does not receive great help from the government; hence, it could be disappointing for many kids, who would want to take football as their career. Bhatia said, “There is not much money in Indian football for a player to build a career in the game, as compared to other nations”. But Ethnapa remains to be positive about it, "The government is trying to help in whatever way they can. Ajay Maken , the
sports minister said that the AIFF could use Jawaharlal Nehru stadium for 40 days every year." One can say it was huge gift for Indian football.
We do not know whether anyone would be able to fit into Bhaichung Bhutia’s shoes, but there are players such as Jeje, Sunil Chettri who could come close to him , if not replace him. Even
Virat Kohli, an Indian cricketer tweeted, “Not the end of an era, but rather the start of a legacy. Thank you Bhaichung."
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