This refers to the editorial, “Grand sporting spectacle” (June 13). The interest in India for soccer is palpable despite a huge fan following for cricket. But we need to do a reality check on whether Indians can afford to be distant spectators in the World Cup event that is held every four years. Despite the game of football being more popular in Europe, latin America and African countries, there is hype around this World Cup in India too. This is not a bad development since it enhances interest in the game among the people, especially the youth.
But, instead of hype, India should focus its energies on becoming a good football-playing nation. This is possible when the right coaching is provided to Indian players by qualified coaches, and talent is spotted at school and college levels. Making India a world-class football-playing nation is not an easy task, but a start has to be made.