FIFA President condoles the death of Shibaji Banerjee

by Chittu Shetty February 20, 2017

Former Mohan Bagan goalkeeper and member of their technical committee, Shibaji Banerjee, passed away on Sunday night following a massive heart attack

The lasting black-and-white picture of Banerjee diving to snatch the ball from Pele’s feet.

After the unfortunate demise of former India International Shibaji Banerjee who passed away after a sudden heart attack in Kolkata on Sunday, FIFA President Gianni Infantino sent his condolence message to AIFF.

In his condolence message to All India Football Federation President Mr. Praful Patel, Gianni Infantino conveyed his “deepest condolences” on Shibaji’s demise.

The letter, as quoted by Mr. Infantino, says:

“Please accept my deepest condolences on hearing that former India national team goalkeeper Shibaji Banerjee has passed away.

On behalf of the members of the International football community, I should be grateful if you could extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.

We would hope that in some way, our words of support may help bring a little bit of peace and solace in this time of sadness.”

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West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also conveyed her sadness through a tweet, “Sad to hear about passing of popular former football goalkeeper Shibaji Banerjee. My condolences to his family & friends, we lost a great player.”

Banerjee played for Mohun Bagan for 11 years and was famed for winning Aerial duels, penalties and Free-kicks. From 1977-80, Banerjee did not concede a single goal against arch-rivals East Bengal. He is also well remembered for pulling a string of saves against New York Cosmos who had the legendary Pele in their ranks, the match had ended at 2-2.

Shibaji was also a competent club level cricketer having scored a few runs at CAB first division league. Banerjee was a regular at Mohan Bagan games, He was there in the stands on Saturday watching Mohun Bagan’s 3-1 win over DSK Shivajians

Shibaji Banerjee was cremated with State honour in Kolkata on Monday (February 20, 2017).