Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has announced that a stand at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda will be named after State' former Sports Minister Late Francisco Monte Cruz.
Cruz was instrumental in the construction of the stadium, which was built within six months.
CM Sawant also congratulated FC Goa for their victory in the Bhausaheb Bandodkar Memorial Trophy. He praised the team’s achievement and highlighted the importance of football in Goa.
In his speech, Sawant reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting and promoting football in the state. He promised continued support for the Goa Football Association and expressed the government's dedication to developing more sporting events and nurturing local talent.
Sawant also spoke about Goa's strong football culture, saying that football is deeply ingrained in the Goan identity. “Goa is renowned not only for its beautiful beaches, food, and culture but also for its passion for football. Football runs in the blood of every Goan, and it is a source of pride for us,” he said.
The naming of the stand after Francisco Monte Cruz is seen as a fitting tribute to his legacy and a celebration of Goa’s rich football tradition.
