Indian men's football team decides to donate Rs 20 Lakh to the Balasore train accident victims' families

After the historic victory of the Indian men's football team, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has announced a cash prize of 1 crore to the team. After that, the team has decided to give Rs 20 lakh out of this prize money to the victims of the Balasore train accident.

Also Read: Naveen Patnaik Announced Prize of Rs 1 Crore for members of the Intercontinental Cup 2023 Champion Indian Football Team

The Indian men's football team won the Intercontinental Cup title by defeating Lebanon 2-0 in the final. Captain Sunil Chhetri and Lallianzuala Chhangte scored goals in the final for India at the Kaling Stadium on Sunday night.

"We're grateful for the gesture by the Government of Odisha to award the team with a cash bonus for our win. In what was an instant and collective decision by the dressing room, we've decided to donate Rs 20 lakh of that money towards relief and rehabilitation work for families affected by the unfortunate train accident in the state earlier this month."

The Indian men's football team posted on its Twitter handle.

"Nothing will compensate for the loss that people have faced, but we hope that this plays its own little part in helping families cope and tide through what are very tough times." They added.

The Intercontinental Cup was organized in Odisha. In the closing ceremony after the final, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik expressed his thoughts. "It is a matter of great pride for our state to host this prestigious Intercontinental Cup. Congratulations to India on their victory in the face of stiff competition. It is our intention to hold many more football events in Odisha and support the growth of the sport in Odisha and India."

Also Read: Intercontinental Cup: Indian Football Team defeated Lebanon 2-0 to clinch the Intercontinental Cup

With this victory, the Indian men's football team won the Intercontinental Cup for the second time. India last won this tournament in 2018. After 2019, this tournament could not happen due to the Corona epidemic. This is the third edition of the Intercontinental Cup and India has become the champion for the second time.

Meanwhile, All India Football Federation (AIFF) president Kalyan Chaubey thanked the Odisha government for successfully hosting the tournament. He said, "We couldn't have had a better venue and ending to the Hero Intercontinental Cup. I thank Odisha government for extending all support and hospitality to the participating teams and for hosting a spectacular tournament."