Theseventh edition of the Indian Super League (ISL) is slated to be held in Goaacross three stadiums from November 20. Due to the ongoing pandemic, thematches will be played in empty stadiums. No spectators will be allowed inside.Football lovers in Goa will have to be satisfied with watching the matches liveon their television sets. It may be recalled that in the past the Goa SportsMinister had expressed hope that things might change for the better by the timethe league commences. It is pertinent to note that after unlock-5, much of theservices have commenced in the state. Hotels, bars, restaurants have openedwith 50 percent occupancy and following all SOPs. Casinos are also operatingwith 50 percent capacity. Religious places have been granted permission to opentheir doors. Classes for Std X and XII are set to commence from November 21.Keeping this in mind it would have been desirable to open the gates of thestadiums for at least 25 percent spectators if not for 50 percent for ISLmatches by following all SOPs. Diehard football fans would love to be in thestadium cheering for their favourite teams which obviously will include FC Goa.If forced to watch the matches on TV, for football lovers, it would be a matterof ‘so close yet so far’ as all the ISL matches are scheduled to be held inGoa.
