FIFA U-17 World Cup: Prime Minister Narendra Modi attends India’s historic match against USA

Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the opening ceremony of FIFA U-17 World Cup 2017 at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi on Friday. (Source: PTI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi graced the occasion of India’s opening fixture of the FIFA Under-17 World Cup against USA at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi on Friday. Ahead of kickoff between the two sides, PM Modi felicitated former Indian captains in a pre-match ceremony. PK Banerjee, Syed Nayeemuddin, Bhaskar Ganguly, IM Vijayan, Bhaichung Bhutia, Madan Singh, Sunil Chhetri among others were presented with mementoes and handed were applauded by the PM.

Along with the PM, also present on the occasion were Sports Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore and AIFF President Praful Patel. Modi was also accompanied by FIFA General Secretary Fatma Samoura and Head of FIFA tournaments Jaime Yarza

Earlier, the Prime Minister had welcomed the participating nations and said, A warm welcome and best wishes to all teams taking part in the FIFA U-17 World Cup. I am sure the World Cup will be a treat for football lovers.”

Meanwhile, India suffered a setback in its first encounter of the group stage as they lost 0-3 to USA. Goals from Josh Sargent, Andrew Carleton and Chris Durkin sealed the deal for the away side. While in the opening few minutes the Indian defenders showed good composure in the face of some great attacking play from the USA, the second half saw India lose the plot and end up conceding three goals.