‘The passion here reminds me of Brazil and Europe’: German coach Beiersdorfer lauds Shahdol’s ‘mini Brazil’
On November 24, Dietmar Beiersdorfer, the celebrated former German footballer and coach, flew into Shahdol and singled out Vicharpur village—often called “mini Brazil”—for its fervent love of the game and its bright youth talent.
“The kids play with a passion, energy, and joy that’s truly remarkable. They could very well lead the country one day,” Beiersdorfer remarked, noting that the village’s football culture is “no less than that of any major football nation.”
Having landed in Shahdol the previous evening, the veteran coach honored a promise he’d made to the young footballers when they trained in Germany last month: he’d visit their homes, meet their families, and see firsthand how local customs shape their playing style.
“We’re now connected with each other,” he said. “The sharing of experiences and techniques will keep going. It’s up to us to make sure the lessons these players absorbed in Germany reach the wider community here.”
During the trip, Beiersdorfer spoke to the families of Virendra Baiga, Laxmi Sahis and Saniya Kunde at their residences, remarking that their focus, kindness, and simplicity had moved him deeply.
“Several players from the village stayed with me in Germany during training programmes and performed exceptionally well. Their calm nature, warmth, and affection toward another country impressed me,” he added.
The coach praised the distinctive identity the village has cultivated over the years. “The ‘mini Brazil’ moniker is unique,” he said. “The enthusiasm and talent among Vicharpur’s footballers signal a bright future for the sport in India.”
Speaking to reporters, Beiersdorfer said it was “a matter of pride that talented players from a small village are earning recognition in India and abroad through their chances.”
His visit follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s spotlight on Vicharpur during his “Mann Ki Baat” programme, where he lauded the village’s football obsession and recognized local coach Rais Ahmed. After Modi’s remarks, FC Ingolstadt‑04 invited young coaches and players from Vicharpur to advanced training in October.
In talking with local players and residents, Beiersdorfer drew parallels with his own path. “I began playing football at 14–15, and it was pure passion that carried me to the German national team,” he told them, encouraging them to stay disciplined and consistent. He described Vicharpur’s talent as “exceptional and in need of proper direction.”
The coach stressed that this visit was more than symbolic; it represents “the beginning of mutual trust and partnership” between India and Germany. “We came to India to understand its soil, its real conditions, and the potential of its players.” He expressed confidence that the results of this partnership would soon show on the field, but he cautioned against grand promises, calling the current journey a solid foundation instead.
According to Shahdol division Assistant Director for Sports Rais Ahmed, Beiersdorfer will next head to Bhopal, where he is anticipated to meet Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Tuesday.
The visit wrapped up with Beiersdorfer reaffirming his admiration for the region: “The passion for football in Vicharpur reminds me of the traditional football communities of Brazil and Europe — and that is its real strength.”
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