Bhubaneswar, Jan 28 (PTI) Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Sunday expressed the state's commitment to further strengthening its partnership with the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and supporting the development of football in India.

His remarks came during his attendance at the Kalinga Super Cup 2024 final between Odisha FC and East Bengal FC at the Kalinga Stadium.

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"It gives me immense pride to say Odisha has successfully hosted yet another marquee tournament at the Kalinga Stadium. Being able to host as many as 16 teams simultaneously, providing them with all the facilities, also signifies that Odisha has been making positive strides in football. We aim to further strengthen our partnership with AIFF and support the football development in India," chief minister said.

While wishing to all the participating teams and everyone involved in making this tournament a success, Patnaik said, "I am sure all the teams, players, coaches and officials had a memorable experience in Odisha."

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The atmosphere at the Kalinga stadium during the match was electrifying, with the roars of the crowd reverberating throughout. Excited and enthusiastic fans of both Odisha FC and East Bengal FC added to the vibrant ambience.

The Kalinga Super Cup, which commenced on January 9 in Bhubaneswar, has received encouraging response from players, coaches, and fans. They have commended Odisha for creating a holistic football ecosystem that benefits the sport and gives impetus to its development at the grassroots level, an official said.

(The above story is verified and authored by Press Trust of India (PTI) staff. PTI, India’s premier news agency, employs more than 400 journalists and 500 stringers to cover almost every district and small town in India.. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY)