The women’s FIFA World Cup is just over, and going beyond results, it was evident from the first whistle-signalling play that the tourney created a tremendous impact. Globally, it has proved to be a mirror to the emerging football market in India too.

It was not surprising that so many girls were following the FIFA World Cup played in Australia and New Zealand. The players, the competition, and the crazy fans, the football afFI(FA)cianados, if I can call them that, are truly inspiring for girls who are breaking both societal and sporting barriers, one goal at a time.