A three-day football trial organized by the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) concluded Monday in Dhaka. The final day featured two practice matches, open to spectators, with over 50 expatriate and foreign-born players split into groups.
The goal was clear—earn a chance to wear the red and green.
Some came with deeply personal motivations. One player mentioned playing for Bangladesh was a dream of his grandfather, who passed away during the COVID-19 pandemic. “This is his dream,” he said. “And now I’m here, playing this game. It feels big.”
Adjusting to the Heat, Focusing on the Field
The players came from different countries but shared a common drive. Many had complaints about the heat on the first day, but by the second and third, things had settled. A few even said they began enjoying it.
“I am fine. It’s not that hot for me. I love the heat,” one said.
Another echoed that thought, adding, “We’re all Bengali players. This weather shouldn’t be an excuse. If we came here, we should play.”
The performances varied, with some feeling confident about their sessions and others hoping to improve. But everyone seemed focused on one thing: giving everything they had.
No One Left Behind
The trial process isn’t eliminating anyone outright. Instead, rankings based on performance will guide the next steps. All players will remain in consideration.
Coordinator Sakib Mahmud believes several players have already made a strong case for inclusion in the senior or age-based national squads. “If it were up to me, a few of them would walk straight into a starting eleven,” he said. “They’ve shown real promise. I couldn’t be prouder of what I’ve witnessed over these past two days.”
Players like Sami Mia and Kasper Haque have drawn particular attention. Discussions have started around a handful of names who could change the course of Bangladesh’s football future.
What Comes Next
The selection committee will now review match performances and begin mapping player potential for different national squads. While no final decisions were made public, the tone at the end of the trial suggested optimism.
For the players, it was more than just a chance. It was a homecoming. A statement. A way to reconnect with their roots and possibly shape the future of the game in Bangladesh.
And maybe, for some, it was about honoring promises made long ago.
