MARGAO
Sumanta Ghosh, a former FIFA referee, passed away on Thursday. He was 70-years-old and is survived by his wife and two sons.
One of the top referees in the country in the 1990s, Ghosh was known for his quick on-field decisions, firm control over proceedings and smooth conduct of high-profile matches.
He became a FIFA referee in 1990 and retired in 1997. He officiated in top tournaments like pre-World Cup, pre-Olympics, AFC Club championships, SAFF Cup, Jawaharlal Nehru Cup etc.
After retirement, Ghosh continued to be associated with refereeing “ he was a Referees’ Instructor and AIFF Match Commissioner.
Alberto Colaco, former General Secretary of All India Football Federation in his condolence message said it was sad news, "The football fraternity will miss him. May his soul rest in peace.”
Anil Kamat, AIFF Director Competition described Sumanta Ghosh as a very good referee. "He was one of the best in the country. I share the grief with his family,” he said.
"He was a mentor to me and my well-wisher. We share many good memories of refereeing tournaments. My first assignment was the Federation Cup way back in 1997. He was very practical, very strong in his approach to the game. Many young referees in the country grew up with his teaching qualities. He stood tall as a top referee not only from Kolkata but in the country," recalled Walter Pereira, AFC Referee Assessor and former FIFA Assistant Referee.
"He was a good referee and a nice human being," said Shabir Ali, former India captain. "And his invaluable contribution to the game will always remain with us," he added.
"Ghosh was a gentleman, soft-spoken person. He was a legend in refereeing. When he was a referee, I used to watch his refereeing. We will miss him, no one can take his place. On behalf of Goa refereeing fraternity, may his soul rest in peace," said Francisco alias Franky Fernandes, former FIFA Assistant Referee.
