Russian embassy organises Diplomatic Football Tournament in Delhi

New Delhi [India], June 10 (ANI): Ahead of the Fifa World Cup 2018, The Russian embassy on Sunday organised a football tournament for diplomatic community in Delhi.

The Chinese, French, German, Iranian, Danish, and the United Nations teams took part in the tournament. The Russian team won the match.

Speaking to ANI, Sports Minister Rajyavardhan Rathore said,"Football's popularity is rising in India. The number of people who turned up to watch FIFA U-17 World Cup was same as IPL matches. India hasn't played in FIFA but we've potential. If potential, is linked to opportunities, India will start playing in FIFA. Be it football, or any other sports, India has tremendous potential."

Russian Ambassador Nikolay Kudashev spoke about how sports can unite the world.

"It's an initiative by Russian Embassy in India, supported by diplomatic core and Indian government. Sports are the best language to speak and understand one another. It's an important way to bring the world together," said Russian Envoy Nikolay R Kudashev

The FIFA World Cup, often regarded as the biggest football tournament in the world will begin on June 14 till July 15.

The Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) 2018 World Cup will be hosted by Russia. (ANI)

This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI