Cafu applauds grassroots football programmes uplifting Indian girls

When the two‑time World Cup winner Cafu set foot on Indian soil last weekend, he did more than just sign autographs – he took a moment to spotlight a quiet revolution happening on dusty pitches across the country.

The focus of his visit was the Dreaming in Slums Foundation, a small but mighty NGO that teaches football to girls from low‑income neighbourhoods. The idea is simple: a ball at their feet, a coach’s guidance, and a safe space to learn life‑skills that go far beyond the sport itself.

Speaking to reporters, Cafu said initiatives like this give children “respect, training and a real chance at a better future.” He added, with a grin, that seeing those young faces light up made him “very happy and impressed.” It was a genuine, un‑scripted reaction, the kind you expect when a legend sees genuine passion.

Beyond the feel‑good factor, Cafu didn’t shy away from a more pragmatic plea. He urged Indian football authorities to pump more resources into grassroots development, noting that the country’s upcoming friendlies – especially the high‑profile clash with Brazil in Kolkata – could be a catalyst for lasting change.

During his stay, the former Brazil captain even laced up his boots for a short, informal match with the foundation’s girls. The session turned into a lively workshop about confidence, teamwork, and how sport can break down social barriers. For many of the participants, it was a once‑in‑a‑lifetime moment that reinforced the message: football can be a powerful vehicle for empowerment.

Looking ahead, the Indian men’s national team, nicknamed the Blue Tigers, is set to test themselves against tougher opposition: Panama in Bengaluru on September 26, followed by Brazil on October 3 and Uruguay on October 6, both in Kolkata. Cafu’s endorsement of the grassroots movement adds a hopeful note to these fixtures, suggesting that the seeds planted today could blossom into a stronger, more inclusive football culture tomorrow.