📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Ministry of Defence
Sports
Suraj Karkera Says India-Pakistan Rivalry Will Be Missed as Pakistan Absent
✍️ Bhaskar English
🗓 13 Oct 2026, 09:02 AM
👁 10
India goalkeeper Suraj Karkera lamented the absence of Pakistan in the recent match, saying the India‑Pakistan rivalry would be missed.
India goalkeeper Suraj Karkera expressed disappointment over Pakistan’s absence in the recent match, noting that the India‑Pakistan rivalry would be missed by fans and players alike.
Karkera said the historic rivalry adds a unique flavour to every encounter and that its absence was felt on the field and in the stands.
The goalkeeper highlighted that the competitive spirit between the two nations elevates the quality of play and brings excitement to supporters.
While the match proceeded without the traditional rivalry, Karkera emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards and looking forward to future fixtures where both teams can face each other again.
Officials and commentators echoed Karkera’s sentiment, underscoring the cultural significance of India‑Pakistan football encounters for the sport’s growth in the region.
Karkera said the historic rivalry adds a unique flavour to every encounter and that its absence was felt on the field and in the stands.
The goalkeeper highlighted that the competitive spirit between the two nations elevates the quality of play and brings excitement to supporters.
While the match proceeded without the traditional rivalry, Karkera emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards and looking forward to future fixtures where both teams can face each other again.
Officials and commentators echoed Karkera’s sentiment, underscoring the cultural significance of India‑Pakistan football encounters for the sport’s growth in the region.