AFC Cup final: Indians unite for history in the making

Support is pouring in for Bengaluru FC from every corner of Qatar as it prepares for the AFC Cup final, here on Saturday. The non-resident Indians in Qatar will come out in full force in support of BFC as the Indian community sees this as an opportunity to cheer for glory for Indian football in general.

The Indian population in Qatar, the host for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, currently stands at around 720,000, more than 30 per cent of the entire population.

Support is pouring in for Bengaluru FC from every corner of Qatar as it prepares for the AFC Cup final, here on Saturday.

The non-resident Indians in Qatar will come out in full force in support of BFC as the Indian community sees this as an opportunity to cheer for glory for Indian football in general.

"You don’t get to see an Indian club playing in an AFC Cup final very often. As it’s happening in our city there is no looking back. We'll cheer for Sunil Chhetri and the entire team from the stands,” Abdurahman E. P., President, Qatar Indian Association For Sports & Games (QIA) told www.the-aiff.com.

The Indian population in Qatar, the host for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, currently stands at around 720,000, more than 30 per cent of the entire population.

"A victory for Indian football in the continental stage is what we want. Witnessing such a historical chapter of Indian football unfurl is emotional. The Indian community has already started planning for a grand reception party to our own players and officials."

“We are organising several promotional activities through social media platforms to reach out to maximum Indians. We are in touch with the ‘West Block Blues’ fans and the youth are working hard to bring maximum spectators to the stadium,” Safeer, General Secretary, QIA, mentioned.

When contacted, West Block Blues confirmed the communication. "Yes, we're in constant touch with the Indian communities over there and they have confirmed to join us on November 5. We're planning to get some merchandise for them as well."

It took an emotional turn when Subhendu Ganguly chipped in. “I’m a Mariner by birth. Two years back, when they clinched their maiden I-League, I almost cried. But this time it’s different. Bengaluru FC are representing our country. Putting club difference aside, I will cheer for BFC. They are going to play for our Tricolour,” his voice choked.

“Times are changing. Our youth teams are doing well and so is the national team. Indeed, ‘Acche Din’ is not very far for Indian Football.”