The Indian football team was greeted enthusiastically. At the Khuman Lampak Stadium before of their first match in Manipur.
Six o’clock in the evening is late by Imphal standards. Yet despite the rain, cold weather, and the end of the day. Manipur and its people were just getting set for a historic start. After all, the Indian football team is in town for their first match in Manipu. However, it had been against Myanmar on Wednesday in the Tri-Nation International Football Tournament.
Manipur’s passion for football is well known. Manipur also boasts the most players for a state in the Indian Super League (ISL), I-League, and Indian Women’s League. They have produced over 50 players for the men’s and women’s senior national teams (IWL).
Their passion for the game eventually led to a date. And with the senior national team. And the Khuman Lampak Stadium served as the setting for the historic night in the city. However, the stadium has a capacity of 35,000. It has hosted the renowned Imphal derby between I-League rivals NEROCA and TRAU FC.
Manipur all set to experience Indian football match
And, yes, the stands were filled to the rafters. As residents flocked to the stadium in large numbers to cheer on their favourite heroes. However, the celebration of Sajibu Cheiraoba was on the same day. It celebrates the start of the traditional new year for the local Meitei people. This added to the atmosphere and the day.
The welcome and festivities began at the stadium. With a fascinating performance by local band Rhythms of Manipur. They had the crowd in attendance move to their rhythms. Moreover, this was followed by an elaborate dance performance displaying the cultures of Manipur. A state comprised of many tribes and languages. As the Indian team practised on the pitch behind the dancers to great applause.
After the cultural programmes, the Blue Tigers returned to the pitch in their national colours. Accompanied despite by fireworks. Manipur Chief Minister Biren Singh congratulating the players from both teams. However, the opening ceremony came to a close. And the game for which the villagers had been waiting for years began.
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