International Football’s Humble Beginnings in Karachi

Although cricket is the most popular game in Pakistan, the Karachiites are famous for their passion for football. And the People's Sports Complex, the venue of the Fourth SAFF Championship, turned into a sea of football fans just before the start of the final between Bangladesh and India yesterday (Dec 17). India won 2-0. A huge billboard that reads "Welcome to the Football City" greets you as you move along the road that leads to the People's Sports Complex Stadium in the heart of Karachi. But apart from the fan-factor, the eight-team tournament, however, would be termed as one of the most disorganised show due to mismanagement.