Union Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju to attend India Vs DPR Korea clash in Hero Intercontinental Cup

The minister's presence at the game will be another sign of the Modi's government's continued push to develop football in the country.

As the Indian football team gear up to face DPR Korea on Saturday, the Blue Tigers have received a boost, as Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Youth Affiars and Sports, Kiren Rijiju will attend the game at the EKA Arena by TransStadia, Khel Now can confirm.

The 47-year-old, who replaced Colonel Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore in the ministry, is a known admirer of sports. Since then, his moves have hugely helped Indian football, as the budget for the AIFF was increased ₹30 crore for 2019-20, a major upgrade from ₹23.08 crores in 2018-19.

A big shout out to all fans - Super stoked to see #herointercontinentalcup today at the Arena #Ahmedabad by @SETransStadia - the match is India V. dPRKorea @IndianFootball - expecting a special guest our Hon’ Minister @KirenRijiju to inspire our side to a victory pic.twitter.com/kZsAUCf4CA

— udit (@UditSheth) July 13, 2019

The Blue Tigers have started their campaign on a lowly note, as they could not hold on to their first half lead and were defeated by Tajikistan in the opening game of the Hero Intercontinental Cup. As the Indian football team seek redemption, they must win the game against DPR Korea, if they are to have any chance of making it to the final of the tournament.

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the EKA Arena by TransStadia in Ahmedabad, which is hosting the second edition of the tournament, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as part of his 'Make in India' initiative. As part of the Prime Minister's cabinet, Rijiju has been vocal about the development of sports in the country, as he has sent enriching words to several sportspersons and national teams of the country in different sports.

India take on DPR Korea at the EKA Arena in Ahmedabad on Saturday, July 13 from 8 PM onwards. The match will be telecast live on the Star Sports Network and streamed on Hotstar.