Panaji, June 14: The excitement of the FIFA World Cup 2026 has taken over the world, and Goa is no exception. Although the Indian team did not qualify for the tournament, the enthusiasm for this mega event is palpable across the country, especially in Goa. Here, local football tournaments are also underway, allowing players and fans to revel in the World Cup spirit.
Football coach Dominic Araujo stated, “The FIFA World Cup 2026 is happening, and we are thoroughly enjoying the tournament. Football is immensely popular in Goa; it runs in our blood.”
He added that a national-level football tournament is currently being held, marking its seventh edition. Boys and girls from under-14, under-16, and under-17 categories are participating. “I hope to see an increase in the number of girls playing football in Goa,” he expressed.
Coach Bhagat remarked, “The World Cup is a major event globally. For the people of Goa, it is a celebration. There’s nothing more joyful than the sunrise and playing football. Here, people live and breathe football. Every parent dreams of their child becoming a football player. During the World Cup, homes are adorned in the colors of their favorite teams, and you can find supporters of multiple teams in a single household.”
A young footballer shared, “Our matches are in the morning, so we can watch the FIFA World Cup matches. We have to sleep early and wake up early because of the matches. Competing in Goa is tough, but it’s thrilling.”
A young fan expressed, “The Indian team did not qualify for the FIFA World Cup, but I hope they make it next time. I am a Ronaldo fan, so I am supporting Portugal in this World Cup.”
Another fan mentioned, “I want to watch all the World Cup matches, but we have our own matches too, so I don’t have time for everything.”
A young female player stated, “I am a huge fan of football. I followed the World Cup in Qatar in 2022. Watching football and my favorite team play is exhilarating. While cricket is the most significant sport in India, football is the most popular sport in Goa. There are many good clubs here that also provide opportunities for women.”
Another young female footballer noted that the number of girls in football is gradually increasing. “The number of girls should rise further so we can achieve equality in this sport,” she concluded.
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