Mizoram Celebrates Argentina's World Cup Victory with Enthusiastic Revelry
Aizawl's Night of Celebration
Aizawl, July 17: The capital of Mizoram, known for its peaceful atmosphere, was filled with the sounds of honking vehicles late at night as Argentina triumphed over England in a thrilling semifinal match of the FIFA World Cup, just after 2 am (IST) on Thursday. The excitement was palpable, with cheers echoing through the hills as fans celebrated Argentina's victory, showcasing their unwavering support for Lionel Messi.
Statewide Celebrations
The jubilant atmosphere extended beyond Aizawl, with similar scenes observed in various towns and villages throughout the state, where fans eagerly watched the match on their televisions and mobile devices.
Shift in Support
Mamuana, a former football writer and sports enthusiast, noted that fans in Mizoram typically support either Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo. However, following Portugal's exit from the tournament, Messi's support has surged significantly.
Social Media Buzz
Throughout the tournament, social media has been abuzz with memes, banter, and passionate discussions among fans of the two football icons.
Economic Impact
The football frenzy has also led to a surge in business for local sports shops, with many running out of Argentina jerseys. Mamuana, who operates a sports goods store, reported that sales of Ronaldo and Messi jerseys have been exceptional this World Cup, with some days seeing sales exceeding Rs 1 lakh.
Additionally, online jersey retailers have experienced a boom, with many struggling to fulfill the high volume of orders, according to a local survey.
Impact on Daily Life
This year's World Cup, held in time zones less favorable for Asian viewers, has forced many football fans in Mizoram to stay awake late into the night for the knockout matches. This late-night viewing has had a noticeable impact on daily routines, with one businessman noting a decline in employee productivity due to fatigue from late-night match-watching.
Football's Growth in Mizoram
The introduction of cable television in the 1990s revolutionized football culture in Mizoram, allowing families to regularly watch major leagues and tournaments. This exposure has not only intensified football fandom but has also inspired a new generation of players.
Today, numerous Mizo footballers compete professionally in the Indian Super League, I-League, and I-League 2, with several representing India at the international level.