Brazilian football legend and two-time FIFA World Cup winner Cafu spent Saturday on the football field with young underprivileged girls from the city, guiding them in the game and inspiring them to pursue their dreams through sport and education. He joined them for a friendly game, offered guidance from the field, and was seen enjoying the session as the girls played alongside one of football’s most celebrated players. Cafu, who captained Brazil to the 2002 FIFA World Cup title and was also part of the team that lifted the trophy in 1994, visited the Mumbai-based ‘Dreaming in Slums Foundation’ and spent time with the young footballers.
“My opinion for the children who study and play football is that they should continue on this path. “It was wonderful. I feel like I am loved by the world. This is very gratifying. I felt the affection and respect from the children, who practically did not see me playing. I think this is something inexplicable. The former Brazil captain also discussed the development of football in India, saying the country has the potential to make a global mark if investment and professional expertise continue to grow. “India is a country that every year has been investing more in sports, especially in football. “I am from a middle-class background. My father is an auto driver, and my mother is a housewife.
Speaking about the importance of combining education with sport, Cafu said football can play a major role in helping children build a better future. Sport is one of the greatest tools of social inclusion in the world,” Cafu told reporters after the visit. Cafu was visibly pleased after meeting the young players and said he was touched by their warmth. I am very happy to be here in India,” he said. I think that if we start making investments and bringing in professionals, India has great potential to be one of the world’s best football teams,” he said. I got an opportunity to play football with an NGO, and I would like to thank my coaches, Gulab Shah and Prajodhi,” Sonali said.
