On Sunday, April 6, 2025, at the Fatorda Stadium in Goa, visually impaired fans Abhishek and Akhil Lal experienced the thrill of football firsthand, thanks to Anugrah TS, the goalkeeper of the Kerala Blind Football team, who narrated the Indian Super League semifinal match between FC Goa and Bengaluru FC.
The duo, ardent fans of Sunil Chhetri, witnessed a dramatic match that ended with Chhetri scoring the decisive goal in stoppage time. This event highlights the inclusivity and accessibility of sports, bringing joy to fans across different abilities. While officials have not commented specifically on this event, it underscores broader efforts to make sports more accessible.
The Experience of Inclusion
Abhishek and Akhil Lal, both from Kerala, were part of a unique experience at the Nehru Stadium in Fatorda, where they followed every move of the match through Anugrah TS’s vivid narration. Anugrah, known for his exceptional skills as a goalkeeper in the Kerala Blind Football team, played a pivotal role in making this experience possible.
His detailed commentary allowed Abhishek and Akhil to immerse themselves in the game, feeling every pass, tackle, and goal as if they were part of the action. Their excitement was palpable as they cheered for their hero, Sunil Chhetri, whose goal sealed the win for Bengaluru FC.
“We are Sunil Chhetri fans and this was the first time we experienced him at the stadium,” Abhishek shared, reflecting on the unforgettable experience. This moment not only celebrated the thrill of football but also showcased the power of sports in bridging gaps and fostering inclusivity.
Promoting Accessibility in Sports
The Indian Blind Football Federation has been actively promoting blind football, organizing training camps and tournaments across the country. Anugrah TS, a key figure in the Kerala Blind Football team, has been recognized for his skills, contributing to the team’s success in regional tournaments. The event at Fatorda demonstrates how sports can transcend visual barriers, offering a shared experience for fans of all abilities.
It also highlights the importance of accessible sports infrastructure and the role of dedicated individuals like Anugrah TS in making such experiences possible. The match itself was a testament to the competitive spirit of the ISL, with Bengaluru FC entering the second leg with a 2-0 aggregate lead.
Despite FC Goa’s efforts to overturn the deficit, Sunil Chhetri’s goal in stoppage time sealed Bengaluru’s spot in the ISL final with a 3-0 aggregate win. The match showcased Bengaluru’s defensive solidity and attacking precision, led by players like Edgar Méndez and Ryan Williams.
Despite FC Goa’s efforts to create chances, they were unable to breach Bengaluru’s defence, with goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu making crucial saves to maintain a clean sheet.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This heartwarming story embodies the spirit of inclusivity and accessibility that The Logical Indian advocates for. It shows how sports can unite people across different backgrounds and abilities, fostering a sense of community and shared joy.
As we celebrate such moments, we must also reflect on how we can further enhance accessibility in sports and other public events. This includes investing in accessible infrastructure, promoting assistive technologies, and encouraging more individuals to participate in inclusive sports initiatives.
How can we, as a society, ensure that more individuals like Abhishek and Akhil Lal have the opportunity to experience the magic of sports firsthand? What steps can we take to make sports more inclusive and accessible for everyone?
