IN BRIEF True blue fan will cry for Argentina

– A die-hard Argentina fan in India has painted his house in the team’s blue and white colours ahead of the football World Cup, saying his love for Lionel Messi’s men knows no bounds.

Kolkata resident Shib Shankar Patra’s passion for Argentina began during the 1986 World Cup when Diego Maradona helped the team win the coveted trophy.

“For me Messi is an extension of Maradona. Everyone in my family loves Messi. We love everything about him,” Patra (below) said.

Patra who sells tea from a shop in his building wanted to travel to Russia to see his football heroes in person but ran short of money.

“I had saved 60 000 rupees ($890) but it was not enough for the trip. I will now watch their games on TV and cheer for my favourite footballers.

“I will be praying every day for Argentina’s success. Nothing gives me more happiness than seeing them win on the field,” said Patra. – AFP