Bhubaneswar (Odisha) [India], Nov 13 (ANI): The Odisha government and the All India Football Federation (AIFF) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will see the coastal state hosting several youth teams of the national team and academies including the setting up of a high-performance centre in Odisha.

The eight-year-long deal between the Odisha Sports Development and Promotion Company (OSDPC) and the AIFF comes at a time when Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik-led Biju Janata Dal government is trying to project Bhubaneswar as a premier sports hub in the country. The state government will be bearing the costs for any events that will be taking place, reported Goal.

The historic deal was signed in the presence of AIFF General Secretary Kushal Das and Indian National Team Director Abhishek Yadav. While both the Indian Arrows football team, the AIFF's developmental squad, currently participating in the I-League, are based out of Bhubaneswar, the U-15 Indian side will also be based out of the state of Odisha.

A football academy for girls with a fully dedicated residential facility will also be set up by the AIFF in the state. (ANI)

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