The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has announced plans to organize two charity football matches to raise funds for relief efforts in Kerala and Himachal Pradesh.
These matches are aimed at supporting the communities affected by recent natural disasters. The first match, proposed for August 30th in Manjeri, Kerala, will see Kolkata’s Mohammedan Sporting Club facing off against a Super League Kerala XI. The second charity match is scheduled for September 2nd in Lucknow.
AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey has expressed his gratitude to Mohammedan Sporting for readily agreeing to participate in the cause. The federation is currently in discussions with other clubs to confirm the participants for the Lucknow match.
“I’m happy that one of India’s oldest clubs, Mohammedan Sporting, immediately agreed to our proposal for the cause of humanity. We are also in advance conversation with two clubs for the Lucknow match,” Chaubey said in a statement.
He emphasizes the role of sport in providing solace and healing during times of hardship: “Sport is a powerful medium to offer comfort and heal humanity after such tragedies. We often celebrate cups won by clubs; let’s now come together to raise the cup of solidarity.”
Kerala has been grappling with the aftermath of a devastating landslide in Wayanad, while Himachal Pradesh continues to face fresh floods and landslides, severely impacting the region’s infrastructure and lifelines.
These charity matches are a testament to the power of sport in uniting people and supporting those in need during challenging times. The AIFF’s initiative is expected to raise substantial funds to aid the ongoing relief and recovery efforts in both states.
