Kolkata gearing up for 'Japanese invasion'

Kolkata is bracing up for a Japanese invasion early next week.

About 1,400 Japanese football fans are expected to troupe down to the city to watch the FIFA sponsored qualifier for the 2006 World Cup football match between Japan and India in the Asia Group league on September 8.

The event has transcended itself from a mere sporting engagement to an opportunity for the state to showcase its initiative for development and progress to the visiting foreigners.

This eastern state of West Bengal has incidentally attracted the highest direct foreign investment among all other Indian states from Japan in recent years.

The Indian Football Association in West Bengal, the organisers for the event are busy giving the final touches.

The secretary of the association, Subrata Dutta told Gulf News: "We are trying to live up to the occasion.

Kolkata is known for its millions of football crazy fans. The soccer fiver has been rising and is perceptible in the demand for tickets. The Salt Lake stadium the venue is certain to witness a record crowd of over 120,000 spectators."

The star attraction of the event will be the Brazilian World Cupper Zico, who coaches the Japanese national team and is expected to accompany the outfit when it clashes with India on September 8.

The team also has at least four World Cup players who figured in 2002.