By Shoubhik Mukhopadhyay,
AIFF Media Team

DOHA: Supports are pouring in for JSW Bengaluru FC from every corner of the Nation since they have etched their name in the Indian Football History — the first Indian club to feature in the AFC Cup Final.

Now, the non-resident Indians (NRIs) who have been staying in Qatar for a good time are coming forward to cheer their heart out. 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 EP, President, Qatar Indian Association For Sports & Games (QIA) told www.the-aiff.com

Qatar Indian Association For Sports & Games have been active since 2013 and they have honed a holistic approach to reaching out to more Indians through Football.

Incidentally, the Indian population in the country with the highest GDP currently stands at around 720,000, more than 30% of the entire population. Nevertheless, November 5 is not going to be any less than a National festival for the Indians in the country who are slated to host FIFA World Cup 2022.

“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.

In an effort to spread the word, the association have also contacted ‘West Block Blues.’

When contacted, West Block Blues confirmed to www.the-aiff.com about it. “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.”