PANAJI
Over the past decade, significant changes have been witnessed in Indian football, particularly within the realm of Goan football, according to Jonathan De Souza, Vice President of the Goa Football Association.
Reflecting on the impact of the Indian Super League (ISL) on the landscape of Indian football, De Souza noted a transformation in the organization of matches. He highlighted the introduction of professional standards akin to those seen in European football, including the incorporation of giant screens, LED boards, fan engagement initiatives, and digital ticketing systems. Moreover, player salaries have seen an uptick, accompanied by improved facilities.
However, De Souza acknowledged that the initial period following the advent of the ISL posed challenges for Goan football. The closed nature of the league and the prominence given to ISL teams over those in the I-League initially contributed to a downturn in Goan football. Consequently, several Goan clubs withdrew from the I-League. Nevertheless, with the recent finalization of a roadmap incorporating promotion and relegation, the football landscape is poised to expand to newer cities, offering increased opportunities for participation.
Highlighting recent advancements in Goan football, De Souza expressed optimism about the future trajectory of the sport. Notably, the qualification of Goa for the Santosh Trophy final after an eight-year hiatus signifies a resurgence in footballing prowess. Furthermore, there are promising prospects for Goan clubs in the ISL, with Dempo SC potentially featuring within two years and Sporting Clube de Goa within three years.
These developments are expected to have a positive impact on Goan football, providing employment opportunities for players and bolstering the overall ecosystem. The influx of funds into the system is anticipated to facilitate the hiring of more coaches, create additional allied jobs, and attract more brands to associate with football.
He also added that the recent evolution of Indian football, particularly in Goa, has been marked by both challenges and opportunities. While the initial phase of ISL integration presented hurdles, the future outlook appears promising, with the potential for greater inclusivity and expansion across various facets of the sport.
