A pan India survey reveals hot favourites of football

At the onset of World Cup 2014 quarter finals, Skyscanner, a global travel search site, scans through the preferences of fans across the nation to bring teams and players at the centre stage of all the drama.

Not having a team playing in the most celebrated football tournament across the world has not stopped Indians from staying up all night to support their favourite team.  From people painting their faces in Kerala to buying FIFA inspired mithais in Kolkata, the football fever has gripped Indians more than ever before!

A survey conducted by Skyscanner, a global travel search site, reveals that 49% of Indians surveyed are supporting the five times champions Brazil. Argentina and Germany share the second spot at the list with 15% support from the country. While 7% of Indians surveyed, support Netherlands after their smashing win against the defending champions Spain, England and Italy lost ground soon after being dropped before the quarter finals.

Though the major metros including New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata and Hyderabad have their own characteristic traits, fans across these cities see Brazil lifting the trophy this season. And while New Delhi and Mumbai vouch for Germany at the second spot, Kolkata’s support for Argentina – the team that visited the Salt Lake stadium back in 2011 continues unabated.

With 4 goals and 40 dribbles in 4 matches, Lionel Messi, known as the ‘King of Dribbling’ is not only leading the ground for Argentina but has swayed 38 percent of women surveyed for the hottest footballer of the season spot.

Always making a style statement with his unique hairstyles, Cristiano Ronaldo makes it to the second spot with only 22 percent of women voting for him. The French footballer and team’s national key striker, Olivier Giroud is the third favourite. While he is famous for his rough play and the ability to outsmart almost any defender he comes head to head with, his attractive physique is doing the rounds among women.

Lionel Messi is the top favourite amongst men too, with close to 50 percent men who were surveyed from all major metros swearing by his side. Despite of holding the title of FIFA Ballon D’or, Cristiano Ronaldo falls short with only 26% support from the Indian men.

With less than 2 weeks to go for the World Cup 2014 finale, Indians are following the game with obsessional interest. It will truly be one night, two sides, one fight, and a million Indian eyes!