Premier Futsal League gave us a good appetiser on the opening day with two matches that both ended 4-2, Mumbai and Kolkata picking up wins over Chennai and Goa respectively.
The first set of matches is being played at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium in Chennai with the action here continuing till Sunday. Once the opening act featuring AR Rahman and Mandira Bedi was done, it was over to the two matches in store.
This new tournament that showcases the fun sport of futsal kicked off with the home team, Chennai, taking on Mumbai. It ended disappointingly for them as Ryan Giggs’ Mumbai side outplayed and outfought them.
Chennai’s marquee player, futsal legend Falcao, expressed disappointment at the result and spoke about how the attitude early on didn't help them get off to the right start.
“In the first half, when we start the game, we think that we win easy. This thinking was not good. And in the second half, we wake up and played a bit better”, said Falcao.
Luis Amado shines for Mumbai
Chennai’s efforts were not helped by Mumbai's goalkeeper, Luis Amado, who kept thwarting the majority of their shots and Falcao paid tribute to him while adding that they will rebound positively in the next game.
“For the next game, for sure we will be good, much better. You must know that in this game, the goalkeeper who played against us is a legend. Losing this game was bad, but for sure next game we will be more focused and stronger”, said the four-time World Futsal Player of the Year.
The game apart, Falcao spoke about how the project on offer here appealed to him with there being other offers also on his table, a choice he made with a vision to grow the sport here in India.
Besides being their star man, Falcao also seemed to be manning coach duties on Friday evening. It certainly seemed to affect the team and hopefully, that issue is going to be addressed before their next game.
The man who stole the show though was Brazilian-born Italian, Foglia, who was a ball of energy for Mumbai throughout the game, deservedly picking up the man-of-the-match honours. He opened the scoring with a penalty and then added a second with an assist from none other than Giggs. He was just happy to be here and talked where his almost limitless energy came from.
“First of all very pleased to stay here. Thanks and congratulations to the organising committee. To play with these legends, the television coverage, so many fans, it gives me lot of energy. I am a player known for these characteristics, always, always always give 100%”, said the Italian.
Having said it was “an honour” to play with the likes of Giggs, he also had high praise for his opponent Falcao.
Foglia said, “Falcao is a legend and best ever in futsal. I played with him for two years and know very well his qualities as a player and as a person.”
Giggs did not score, but had a very good match nevertheless, looking to set his teammates up with an assist on numerous occasions. He seemed to acquaint himself well.
The Man-of-the-match from the second game, Pula, also expressed similar sentiments, talking about how he was so happy playing with Argentine Hernan Crespo, the marquee player of his Kolkata team.
Crespo scored one and set up one in his side's win, his goal a beautifully taken one, done with a neat turn to fox the keeper and like Giggs earlier was hugely impactful for his side.
Results
Mumbai 5s bt Chennai 5s 4-2
Kolkata 5s bt Goa 5s 4-2
