When we talk about football in India, the topic of Kerala is one that often finds itself in this discussion. Kerala has been an important part of Indian football since the beginning. From Olympian Rahaman to IM Vijayan, The Legends of Kerala have not only made their country proud internationally but nationally as well.
If we take a closer look at Football in Kerala, we see that it is highly influenced with South American football. They follow a similar style of play and a number of players of from Kerala emulate South American stars. IM VIjayan, one of best striker that India has ever seen had the same amount of aggression, passion, technical ability and flair that is native to South American football.
One may wonder, What is the South American way of football? It is usually attacking in nature. Their game-play involves Individual-centric-attacks. They are known for being able to get past defenders with ease, score the cheekiest of all goals and of course, entertain the viewers with their mind boggling trickery and amazing dribbling skills.
Their natural ability as well as their technical ability is something that is fairly visible as they are given freedom to express themselves on the pitch. Lionel Messi, Diego Maradona, Ronaldinho, Pele, Neymar are a few prominent examples of South Americans who ruin defenses with ball control and some extra ordinary footwork that is native only to South American football. Their Flair is something that speaks to football fans across the globe.
Kerala support the Brazil and Argentina national football sides very passionately. Unlike most states in india, you can spot the home of a football fan from a mile as they would not only put flags on their roofs but ensure that their houses don the jersey of their favorite country. How? Well, the eccentric supporters paint their houses!
That is not the only way they support these teams, Brazilian or Argentinean fans are promised free auto-rickshaw rides in Malappuram in Kerala. Auto-rickshaw drivers have painted their vehicles in their favorite team colors and are offering fans free rides. Mohammed Ali, whose rickshaw is painted yellow with green highlights offers free rides to Brazil supporters. Whereas an ardent Argentina fan – Parakan Nazeer has painted his auto rickshaw in the blue and white stripes and offers free rides to supporters of Argentina.
It is instances like these that make us believe that Kerala has one of the most passionate football fans in India. The support for football that can be found in Kerala is definitely next to none.
For most of us, South American football is just another style. However, for people in Kerala, it is a way of life.
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