Goalposts and Geopolitics

Written by: Saptarchi Biswas

Edited by: Malaika Noorani

Graphic Designer: Sagarika Raju

Every four years, the planet stills.  

It waits for the energy of the crowd

The game is of ninety minutes and the hearts ignite

Under floodlights burning bright.

When the flags are raised the anthem roars

The shores get the echoes

People unite in hope and song

The only belief that they belong

Yet beneath each thunderous cheer

There’s always a story that exists.

For football is not merely a game of boots and play

It is a mirror to the world in every way.

Each state steps onto the field,

Not just to chase cups or wield

But instead carrying histories, scars untold

Dreams of freedom, pride and gold