The 2024-25 football season in Bangladesh will kick off with a highly-anticipated one-off tournament, the Bangladesh Challenge Cup, where current champions Bashundhara Kings and runners-up Mohammedan SC will go head to head for the title. This tournament, modelled after England's Community Shield, promises to be an exciting display of top tier football as the two teams have a history of being evenly matched. While Kings may have had the upper hand last season, Mohammedan is facing a vulnerable Kings side this time around, making for a thrilling and unpredictable game. Football fans in the country are eagerly awaiting the kickoff at the Bashundhara Kings arena in Dhaka.
Bangladesh Football Premier League: Kick-Off with the Thrilling Bangladesh Challenge Cup
Background:
The Bangladesh Football Premier League (BFPL) is the top-tier football league in Bangladesh, which has been running since 1976. The league features 13 teams, including renowned clubs such as Abahani Limited Dhaka, Mohammedan SC Bangladesh, and Bashundhara Kings Bangladesh.
Bangladesh Challenge Cup 2024-25:
The inaugural Bangladesh Challenge Cup will kick off the BFPL season in a one-off tournament. This tournament, inspired by the English Community Shield, pits the defending league champions, Bashundhara Kings, against the runners-up, Mohammedan SC.
Match Preview:
Bashundhara Kings have dominated the BFPL in recent years, winning the title for the last two seasons. However, Mohammedan SC is a formidable opponent and has a strong history against the Kings. With Mohammedan facing a weakened Kings side this season, the match promises to be a thrilling encounter.
Top 5 FAQs:
When and where is the Bangladesh Challenge Cup being played?
Which teams are competing?
What is the format of the tournament?
Who is favored to win?
Can I watch the match live?
In a thrilling Premier League match at Goodison Park, Everton took an early 2-0 lead against Manchester United with goals from Beto and Abdoulaye Doucoure. However, a stunning free-kick from Bruno Fernandes and a late goal from Manuel Ugarte saw United equalize. The match ended in chaotic fashion as a penalty was awarded to Everton in injury-time, only to be overturned after Ashley Young was found to have taken a dive in the box. The intense drama left both teams and fans on the edge of their seats until the very last second.
Brazilian midfielder Casemiro shared his perspective on the longstanding debate of who is the greatest footballer of all time between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Reflecting on his personal experience of playing against both superstars, Casemiro acknowledged the immense talent and impact of both players in the game. He also highlighted how their dominance in the sport has left a lasting impression and cemented their legacy in football history.
Broncos forward Pat Carrigan impresses as he makes a successful move to the front row, leading his team to a 30-14 victory over the Bulldogs in the preseason. The decision to shift Carrigan from lock to prop proves to be a masterstroke by coach Michael Maguire, with Carrigan finishing with 122 running metres and 16 tackles. Meanwhile, fellow forward Kobe Hetherington also puts in a strong performance, further reinforcing the Broncos' depth in the big man department. Both players express their commitment to the team for the long term.
Everton continues their resurgence under David Moyes with another victory, this time over Manchester United at Goodison Park. Doucoure gets a goal and almost scores a second, while Branthwaite impresses with a moment of class to keep the ball in play. United brings on a substitute in an attempt to come back, but Garner receives a yellow card for a challenge. The attendance for the game is 39,290 spectators.
As Manchester United faces budget constraints and the impending loss of midfield stars Casemiro and Christian Eriksen, the club is looking towards free agents and low-cost alternatives to rebuild their squad. One potential option is former academy graduate Angel Gomes, whose contract with Lille expires in 2025, but concerns remain about his injury record. Another is Canadian striker Jonathan David, who has expressed interest in moving to a top club and could provide valuable depth in United's attack. As financial limitations force the club to get creative in the transfer market, the pressure is on for United to find successful and cost-effective solutions.
Despite early trouble in the powerplay, Ben Duckett's masterclass 165 not out, guided England to a massive 351 for 8 against Australia in their Champions Trophy opener. The 30-year-old's innings was a mix of patience and aggression, including 17 boundaries and three sixes. His partnership with Joe Root (68) and skipper Jos Buttler (23) were crucial in recovering from a shaky start.
Ahead of England's start in the 2025 Champions Trophy, premier batter Joe Root reflects on his previous ODI innings and acknowledges the challenges of batting in the format. With the team on a decline after their 2023 World Cup exit, Root expresses his hunger for more 50-over success. He also calls for the team to have more regular opportunities to play and discusses the need for good communication and utilizing the team's talent to overcome obstacles.
Former India player Aakash Chopra predicts that England's batters will perform better against Australia in the 2025 Champions Trophy clash, citing their comfort on flat pitches in Pakistan. Despite a recent ODI series loss to India, Aakash Chopra believes that players like Harry Brook, Phil Salt, and Ben Duckett could make an impact. However, he also notes England's weak death bowling as a potential hurdle, but ultimately chooses them as the likely victors in their opening game against Australia.
Alex Carey's impressive fielding skills helped guide Australia to a win against England in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. In the match, Carey took two spectacular catches to dismiss key players Phil Salt and Harry Brook. His amazing performance on the field added to Australia's success in the tournament.
In a shocking blunder at the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Pakistan's national anthem was mistakenly replaced with India's national anthem during the match between England and Australia in Lahore. The incident has sparked controversy and backlash online, with many questioning how England suddenly became a part of India. In the midst of all the chaos, former Pakistani cricketer Azam Khan wished the best to the Pakistani team ahead of their clash against India, stressing that the team that plays better will emerge victorious.