Kochi the first city to get FIFA's approval to host U-17 World Cup

KOCHI IS THE FIRST CITY who was given the nod to host the Under 17 world being held in the year 2017. These are positive signs indicating the progress for one of the biggest event of football for India.

The panel of experts from FIFA and Local Organising Committee (LOC) visited the Jawarharlal Nehru International Stadium earlier today and said they were please with the work done so far.

Speaking at a press conference Tournament Director of the LOC, Javier Ceppi said,

"Based on what we have seen and based on all the works we have done with the Government of Kerala, with the Kerala Football Association, with all the different stakeholders here in Kochi, we are extremely pleased to announce that Kochi has been ratified as a venue for FIFA U-17 World Cup. Congratulations!"

He went on to say,

"There are a few things that need to be completed, few things that need to be done. We would keep monitoring closely, would closely work with the Government of Kerala to make sure that all the readiness is there and all the compliance is there for the World Cup"

The tournament director also mentioned that they are looking for all aspects for the event to be a successful one and on examination of other things shared,

"From sewage facilities to toilets, it's all been taken care of really well and that for me is very commendable. State government now needs to focus on finishing the work at the stadium and especially the training sites within very tight deadlines, but overall it is commendable how the venue has shaped up"

Tracy Lu, Project Lead FIFA U-17 World Cup India 2017 added on saying,

"We are extremely happy with the progress we see here; from our last inspection a lot of development already taking place and that's extremely encouraging. The dressing rooms, for instances have been renovated and a lot of other construction work has been initiated. I believe thus that it would make for a terrific World Cup venue"

Apart from Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, the delegation also inspected prospective training grounds in Kochi -- Parade Ground, Fort Kochi Veli Football Ground, Maharajas College Ground and Government Boys High School Panampilly Nagar.

"The onus is now on the state Government to complete all works on those sites before end of March 2017," the team of experts said.

 The delegation has Navi Mumbai on the visit list for tomorrow.

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