“Unleashing the Passion for Futsal in Ramazan: The Ustad Jabal Ramazan Tournament in Lyari”

It’s 11:36pm on a Friday night in Ramazan, with darkness enveloping Karachi’s Lyari due to power outages. Amidst this, a narrow street glows with a generator illuminating a group watching kids engaged in a futsal match. Futsal, a game promoting ball control and passing in tight spaces, is the focus here.

Abdul Ghaffar, a former national team midfielder, organizes the Ustad Jabal Ramazan Tournament in his father’s name for the past 12 years. Ghaffar, who runs Baghdadi Green football academy, highlights the tournament’s independence from sponsors.

The tournament caters to 32 to 34 boy teams under 10 years old, with a height limit of 4 feet 7 inches. It aims to keep youngsters involved in football and education while steering clear of negative influences.

Running from the fourth to the 23rd of Ramazan, the tournament requires teams to bring their own equipment, culminating in trophy rewards for the winners and runners-up.

Futsal fever grips Lyari during Ramazan, visible through kids playing with mini-goalposts across the area. Road closures during tournaments ensure safe play, with locals supporting the initiative wholeheartedly.

Despite being renowned for night cricket, Lyari’s passion for futsal during Ramazan is unparalleled. However, power outages have dampened the fervor, leading to a notable decrease in activity as Basit, a former international player, observes.

In a labyrinth of tournaments of varying scales and formats, the essence remains unchanged – affordable entry fees, modest rewards, and a shared spirit among players. The inclusive nature attracts players from different background seeking to unify under the umbrella of football.

Challenges like power cuts and inflation have altered the futsal landscape in Lyari. Once bustling grounds now stand empty during ‘loadshedding’, with the community’s resilience serving as a beacon of hope amidst adversity.

Futsal in Lyari, a symbol of unity and passion, continues to thrive despite hurdles, embodying the unwavering dedication of the locality’s football enthusiasts.

Author
Recent Posts

Denis Hardin

American writer and avid traveler with an insatiable passion for soccer. Hailing from the heartland of the USA, Dennis brings a global perspective to his writings on Asian football. His articles are a fusion of cultural insights and sporting analysis, providing readers with a unique blend of perspectives. Whether he's exploring the bustling football scenes in Tokyo or sharing anecdotes from his time in Mumbai, Dennis's articles are a captivating journey through the diverse world of Asian football.