Bangladesh had pledged to take on Australia in the World Cup qualifiers, but the outcome was far from promising. The sight of a significant defeat was highly disheartening, as the Socceroos triumphed over Bangladesh with a scoreline of 7-0.
Sheikh Morsalin could not play against Maldives in the pre-qualifier due to alcohol ban. After returning to the national team with a penalty, this young forward played a role in getting a point against Lebanon. Bangladesh's dream of playing the World Cup came alive with a 1-1 draw against 104th-ranked Lebanon!
Meet Sheikh Morsalin, the promising football talent representing the national team. However, his journey took an unexpected turn when he was caught drinking with teammates at the airport, shattering the harmony of his entire family. Shefali Begum, Morsalin's mother, swiftly navigated the waves of tension and frustration surrounding her elder son. Following two matches, marked by penalty kicks, Morsalin's magic returned to the national team, resulting in a draw against Lebanon. The joyous outcome of Bangladesh's match brought a sense of relief to Shefali Begum, alleviating her frustration.
The Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) office building holds special significance for female footballers, serving not only as a training ground but also as a hub for their residential practice spanning nearly six years. Amidst their commitment to the sport, these footballers also prioritize their education, with the BFF building serving as a pivotal space for academic pursuits.
With only 10 minutes remaining in the match and 6,500 spectators holding their breath at the Kings Arena, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation. The home team, Bashundhara Kings, found themselves trailing 1-0 against Maldives' Mazia Sports and Recreation Club. Oscar Brujon's team faced the daunting prospect of experiencing their first defeat on home turf. However, despite the late setback, the Kings conjured up magic in the final 10 minutes to secure a remarkable 2-1 victory over Mazia Sports and Recreation Club.
Javier Cabrera, the coach of the Bangladesh football team, has been instrumental in the team's success, prompting discussions with the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) about his potential continuation with the team in the new year. Cabrera's current contract with BAFUF is set to expire on December 31, and negotiations are underway regarding his potential renewal.
A year ago, Kazi Salahuddin, the president of the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF), took charge as the chairman of the Premier League committee after a restructuring.
Singapore succumbed to Tahura's double goal as Bangladesh displayed dominance right from the start. The home team, playing with vigor, quickly asserted their authority, securing a two-goal lead in the first half before adding another after the break, ultimately sealing a 3-0 victory. The joy at the end of the match was evident on Sabina Khatun's face.
Bangladesh demonstrated their dominance in a resounding victory over Singapore, securing an 8-0 triumph in women's football. Singapore's goalkeeper, Lynn Bin Beatrice, found herself consistently busy, grappling with the relentless attacks launched by Bangladesh. The women's football team from Bangladesh celebrated a remarkable victory, concluding the year 2023 on a high note.
Morsalin has now become a student at Dhaka University, fulfilling the cherished dream of every parent in the country who aspires for their child to attend the prestigious institution. The parents of Sheikh Morsalin, the prominent striker of the Bangladesh national football team, namely Shefali Begum and Mujibur Rahman, harbored this dream for their beloved child. While Dia Siddiqui, Rituparna Chakma, and Nilufar Yasmin secured admission earlier, this rising star in the national football arena has now realized the dream.