Sports Adviser announces Tk 2 crore reward

Bangla Press Desk:   Bangladesh ended a 22-year wait in stunning fashion as Shekh Morsalin’s early strike delivered a dramatic 1–0 win over India in the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers at a charged National Stadium in Dhaka on Tuesday night. The crowd of thousands erupted as the final whistle confirmed Bangladesh’s first victory over India since Matiur Munna’s golden goal back in 2003.

The match began with Bangladesh on the front foot, and the breakthrough arrived in the 11th minute. Morsalin latched onto a clever move and calmly slotted home, igniting the stands. From that point onward, it was a battle of resilience. 

India pressed desperately, but goalkeeper Mitul Marma turned into an immovable force—producing reflex saves that kept Bangladesh ahead. At the back, every tackle, header and clearance drew roars from the crowd.

Tensions flared midway through the second half when Tapu Barman and Bikram Pratap collided near the touchline. A heated scuffle followed, involving Nikhil Pruv and Morsalin, resulting in yellow cards for Tapu and Nikhil. But Bangladesh held their composure, defended with grit, and protected their precious lead until the final whistle.

As emotions ran high, midfielder Hamza Choudhury collapsed on the grass in relief while Shamit Shome hugged goalkeeper Mitul Marma in celebration. The magical night took an even more dramatic turn minutes later when Youth and Sports Adviser Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan announced a Tk 2 crore reward for the team. “I’m proud to witness this historic moment while in office. Bangladesh gifted the nation an incredible performance,” he told reporters.

The celebration then shifted to the dressing room—where chaos turned into carnival. Players broke into dance and song, filling the room with unfiltered joy. Adviser Asif Mahmud joined the party and was even lifted onto the players’ shoulders as they celebrated a victory that will echo for years.

BP/SP