GFA makes a case for U-17 FIFA World Cup

PANAJI: The Goa Football Association has been left in no doubt that Goa will be among the six venues that will host the under-17 World Cup in 2017.
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has shortlisted eight venues -- Delhi, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Assam, Kerala and Goa -- for the football spectacle but only six venues will get the final nod.
"We stand the best chance. The GFA has sent all details with regards to legal, security and financial aspects," GFA president Shrinivas Dempo told reporters on Friday.
The GFA has pointed to the refurbished Nehru Stadium in Fatorda, among the best football facilities in the country. Besides, Goa can boost of one artificial surface at Duler Stadium in Mapusa, and another recently-refurbished venue at the Tilak Maidan in Vasco.
The state cabinet recently provided the AIFF with all government clearances that will enable Goa host the under-17 World Cup. GFA sent all documents before the deadline of January 31.
Churchill Brothers CEO Valanka Alemao had raised fears that Goa could be unfairly left out.
"From amongst all the states, Goa is ideally placed to host the group matches at Fatorda, which will be an all-seater stadium with excellent infrastructure and good natural grass playing surface," said Valanka.
"There is a lot of euphoria in Goa especially, after Fifa awarded India the un-der-17 World Cup and it is but natural that Goa should be one of the auto-matic choices given its position in football in the country," she said.