Kochi: The FIFA U-17 World Cup Trophy arrived here on Friday to enthrall soccer enthusiasts in Kerala.
Colorful programs featuring the traditional art forms of Kerala were organized to welcome the trophy to the soccer-crazy state. Kerala sports minister A. C. Moideen unveiled the trophy at the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium complex enabling thousands of fans to see the winner's trophy in person and pose in front of it for photos and selfies.
Representatives of the people and administrators of various sports bodies attended the function. Wide publicity campaign is being done through the sports clubs, schools and colleges about the event by the state department to make it a huge success in Kerala, the minister told reporters.
On Saturday, the trophy will be moved to Ambedkar Stadium near KSRTC stand where the state-level opening of FIFA 11 million football festival will be held. Students of city schools visit the venue from 11 am to 3 pm. On Sunday, a colorful farewell ceremony will be held at the Vasco da Gama square in Fort Kochi.
The Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium will host eight matches next month that will feature football powerhouses Brazil, Spain and Germany among others.
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