Lapping up every moment of 90-minute soccer WC final

Deepankar Sharda

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, July 15

Soccer fever gripped the city as France took on Croatia in the final tie of the FIFA World Cup 2018 on Sunday. Big screens were installed at more than 20 places in the city — at various sectors, coaching institutes, markets and in majority of clubs/pubs.

The month-long football bonanza came to an end with France defeating Croatia 4-2 to lift the World Cup trophy for the second time — the first was in 1998.

The Law Auditorium of the Panjab University was one such place where soccer lovers enjoyed every moment of the final tie. It saw a heavy rush of football enthusiasts. The office of the Dean Student of Welfare (DSW) had given a permission to telecast the match live here for students.

“It was amazing to see the two sides playing. Both teams had a similar number of supporters here. But it was France supporters, who had the last laugh! However, we went for dinner together after the match ended — a gesture of true sportsmanship,” said Ankiet, a law student and a disheartened supporter of Croatia. His friend Shamsher added, “The Croatian side played an attacking game while the France retaliated with counter attacks. Nevertheless, we wanted this game to be a good final and we are happy the way it went.”

While Croatian supporters were appreciating their team’s effort, French supporters were busy enjoying their team’s win. Some even took out a victory march towards their respective hostels.

“This team deserved to win. They were good at all fronts and played all their matches like a true champion,” said Preetinder Bajwa, a botany student. Chandigarh Football Academy (CFA) trainees enjoyed the match at the Sector 42 Sports Complex.

“We winded up our evening practice session early today. We have been following the World Cup since Day 1. Both teams deserved to be in the final. The French played their natural game — intact midfield — while Croatian relied more on long passes. It was an exciting game,” said Angad, a CFA trainee. Hockey players at the stadium joined the CFA trainees watching the title clash. “Though it is not our sport, it was exciting to see the two fine teams play,” said Gurkirpal.