Our Sports Reporter
GUWAHATI: The FIFA delegation along with members of the Local Organising Committee visited the Indira Gandhi Athletic International Stadium here today and had a comprehensive look at the stadium and the training facilities.
Delegates from the football’s governing body were satisfied with the conditions in Guwahati. FIFA’s Project Lead for FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup India 2020, Oliver Vogt remarked, “We are very happy to be back after 2017. We know the passion for football in this part of the country, and are confident we will repeat the success of 2017 if Guwahati is picked as a venue for FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup next year.”
The formal approval is expected during the first quarter of 2020.
Tournament Director of the LOC, Roma Khanna, who was also accompanying the visiting team, said, “It is really good to be back in Guwahati. As we know, this region is bursting with an affinity towards football, as well as talent. We had a fantastic Tournament in 2017, but that was the benchmark. The support from all stakeholders has to be even better. The infrastructure from 2017 is in place, but some modifications need to come in.”
She also added: “Since the infrastructure is in place here, what the message should now be is about celebrating women’s football. Let us take this message, and reach out to as many people. This World Cup has the potential of changing women’s football in the country and we’re confident that we’ll be able to do that with the support of all the stakeholders.”
Avinash Joshi, Principal Secretary, (Sports and Youth Welfare Department of Assam) and the secretary of the Assam Football Association Hemendra Nath Brahma were also present at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium during the time of FIFA delegations visit.
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