The streets of JJ Nagar Colony in Hyderabad’s Yapral have been transformed into a vibrant display celebrating global football as the FIFA World Cup progresses. Local youth have decorated the neighborhood lanes with large banners and posters featuring international stars such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Neymar Jr., creating a festive, stadium-like atmosphere.
Shadrak, a local fan, explained his admiration for Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo, saying, “I am supporting team Portugal and my idol is Cristiano Ronaldo. Argentina stood by Maradona, Brazil stood by Pele. But Portugal stands only by Cristiano Ronaldo, so I support him. In this present year, we want Portugal to win.” He also expressed a broader aspiration for Indian football, stating, “We want India to qualify for the World Cup. I want every player from Hyderabad and India to qualify for the next FIFA World Cup so that we can support our own country. I don’t want these Brazil, Argentina, or Portugal banners. I just want only one nation, one country–my country, India.”
Another resident and member of the Jawahar Soccer Club, Ajith, expressed his excitement over Neymar Jr’s return, saying, “I support Team Brazil because my idol is Neymar Jr He’s a very good magician and a highly skilful player. Because legends have always been part of the Brazil national team, I love supporting them and love playing football as well. As my idol Neymar Jr. is playing after three years, we are celebrating like a festival in our place. We have a lot of players here who support Brazil, Argentina, and Portugal.”
Despite the diversity in football allegiances, the young players of Jawahar Soccer Club remain united in the hope of seeing the Indian national team represent the country in a future FIFA World Cup, symbolized by the Indian tricolour flying high.
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