In a major step to lift the standard of football in the country, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) on Friday inked a protocol with the Portuguese Football League (LPA) here.

With this initiative, India will be able to get active co-operation of the Portuguese for development of the game at grassroots level, avail better coaching and support for infrastructure development to support the national side.
AIFF secretary general Alberto Colaco and LPA vice-president Ricardo Castanheira signed the deal.

Stating that India have been a great supporter of the European country and its footballers, AIFF President Priya Ranjan Dasmunsi sought more help from the Portuguese football fraternity.

“We will invite you to the next international match in India. Also, I request you to raise your voice for India at the next UEFA League meeting. Tell them about the market we have,” Dasmunsi urged the Portuguese delegation.