Chellanam kicks off World Cup bash

Kochi: The FIFA World Cup fever has gripped the coastal village of Chellanam. Heralding the arrival of the much-awaited event in world football, scheduled to kick off on June 12, a giant cut-out of Lionel Messi has been erected by the members of City Bazar Club, a football club which raised funds for the same through crowdfunding and members taking up part time jobs.Thomas Mayjo, a football coach and member of the club, told TOI that the initiative was driven by the enthusiasm of young footballers in the locality. “Despite the World Cup approaching, there weren’t many cut-outs this time. The younger players of the club wanted to make a mark early. They also took up part-time jobs, including painting work and catering assignments, to help raise funds,” Mayjo said.The club members said it took more than a week to complete and install the 25-foot structure, with residents pitching in to support the effort. “It was challenging because of the pre-monsoon showers. When the work became difficult for the members, several residents, including elderly people from the area, stepped forward to help,” said Jibin K J, another member of the club.In a unique gesture, the La Albiceleste supporters have also put up flex boards featuring Brazilian footballer Neymar. “It is simply a gesture of appreciation for an incredible player who is making one more attempt at glory. As lovers of the beautiful game, we felt it was appropriate to extend our support to Neymar as well,” said a club member.In 2018, a video featuring a similar Messi cut-out erected by football fans in Chellanam gained global attention and was voted among the best football fan videos worldwide. Following the recognition, the fans received a football signed by Lionel Messi, a gift the fans of the village have kept in a locker as a treasure.