Football
BCL Football: NoFel SC beat Gopalganj SC 2-1
Coming from behind, NoFel Sporting Club earned 2-1 goals victory over Gopalganj Sporting Club in the Bangladesh Championship League (BCL) Football '2022-23 at the Bir Shreshtha Shaheed Shipahi Mohammad Mostafa Kamal Stadium in Kamalapur Tuesday afternoon.
Iftesham scored first for Gopalganj SC in the 25th minute while Emon leveled the margin for NoFel SC in the 42nd minute from a penalty (1-1)
Abid scored the match winning goal for NoFel SC in the 57th minute (2-1).
Earlier, the day's first match between Fortis SC Limited and Rahmatganj MFS ended in a goalless draw at the same venue.
Fed Cup Football: Bashundhara Kings reach quarterfinals beating Muktijoddha SKC 4-3
League champions and star studded Bashundhara Kings reached the quarterfinal of the Bashundhara Group Federation Cup Football 2022-23 from Group B beating Muktijoddha Sangsad KC by 4-3 goals at the Sheikh Fazlul Haque Moni Stadium in Gopalganj on Tuesday.
The Kings, which beat Fortis FC Ltd in their first match, will play their remaining Group B match against Chittagong Abahani Limited on February 7 in Cumilla.
Also read: SAFF U-20 Women's Championship kicks off in Dhaka February 3
In the day's match, Brazilian striker Robson Robinho put the Kings ahead in the 15th minute from a penalty (1-0), Uzbek medio Asror Gafurov doubled the Kings margin in the 36th minute (2-0) while Nigerian forward Emmanuel reduced the margin for Muktijoddha SKC in the 38th minute (2-1)
Local striker Sumon Reza scored the 3rd goal for the Kings in the 49th minute (3-1) while another Brazilian forward Dorielton Gomes further sounded the winners' margin in the 82nd minute (4-1).
Burundi defender Selemani and Emmanuel netted two quick goals for the Muktijoddha SKC in the 86th and 89th minutes respectively to pull the freedom fighters margin one back in the dying moment.(4-3).
The day's other Federation Cup match between Chittagong Abahani Ltd and Fortis FC Ltd ended in a goalless draw at the Fl Lt Matiur Rahman Stadium in Munshiganj Tuesday afternoon.
World champions Argentina likely to visit Dhaka in next June
The current FIFA World Cup Champions, Lionel Messi's Argentina, is likely to visit Dhaka next June to play a FIFA Friendly match in the capital.
BFF President Kazi Mohammad Salahuddin told the media today (Tuesday) that the Argentina team accepted our proposal to play friendly match in Dhaka in FIFA window in June.
Read more: Argentina will open embassy in Dhaka next year: Country’s President writes to PM Hasina
The tour of Argentina team in Bangladesh is almost final, we are now discussing with them about their team and conditions, if everything will progress in right way then there is no doubt about the match, he added.
But, the opponent of Argentina's team yet to be confirmed, BFF is closely communicating with some countries to play the match against Argentina.
Read more: “Hearts of the people of Bangladesh and Argentina are dearly united by football”
Lionel Messi's Argentina Football team played a friendly football match against Nigeria National team at the Bangabandhu National Stadium in Dhaka on Sept 6 in 2011 where Argentina beat Nigeria by 3-1 goals, but that time, Argentina was not the World Champions.
The Best FIFA Men’s Player Award 2022 Power Ranking
The FIFA Men’s Player Award is one of the most prestigious individual awards in the world of football. It is presented annually by FIFA to the best male football player of the year, recognizing outstanding skill, sportsmanship, and success on the field. The award has been presented since 1991 (formerly known as FIFA World Player of the Year) and rebranded in 2016 as The Best FIFA Men’s Player. It has become one of the most highly anticipated events on the football calendar.
From the early days of George Weah and Zinedine Zidane to the recent domination of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, the award has been given to some of the most iconic and talented players to grace the game. This year FIFA has released the Nominees for The Best FIFA Men’s Player Award 2022. Let’s explore the players’ power ranking.
Nominees for The Best FIFA Men’s Player 2022
The award is a true testament to the excellence of the modern game and the players who inspire us with their performances. It is a celebration of the best of the best in football and a moment for fans to honor the players who make the game so special. This year 14 footballers got the nomination.
Players
Country
Club
Julián Álvarez
Argentina
Manchester City FC
Jude Bellingham
England
BV Borussia 09 Dortmund
Karim Benzema
France
Real Madrid CF
Kevin De Bruyne
Belgium
Manchester City FC
Erling Haaland
Norway
Manchester City FC
Achraf Hakimi
Morocco
Paris Saint-Germain
Robert Lewandowski
Poland
FC Barcelona
Sadio Mané
Senegal
FC Bayern München
Kylian Mbappé
France
Paris Saint-Germain
Lionel Messi
Argentina
Paris Saint-Germain
Luka Modrić
Croatia
Real Madrid CF
Neymar
Brazil
Paris Saint-Germain
Mohamed Salah
Egypt
Liverpool FC
Vinícius Junior
Brazil
Real Madrid CF
Read More: Ronaldo set to face PSG, Messi in first game in Saudi Arabia
The Best FIFA Men’s Player Award 2022 Power Ranking
After considering last year’s performance, some players will have a close competition, while Messi has a great chance of winning. The player is selected by a panel of international media members, coaches, and national team captains. The winner is determined through a combination of these votes and a public online poll. Let’s see the power ranking of the 2022 award.
#1 Lionel Messi
Argentine star Lionel Messi is top of the list after his great performance at the World Cup 2022. Lionel Messi is a phenomenon, having provided fans with many years of awe-inspiring football. His immense talent has finally been rewarded with the ultimate honor; a World Cup victory. He led the team to success with a series of goals and assists that amazed supporters in every corner of the world. The long wait is finally over.
However, his club PSG’s elimination from the Champions League might be disappointing. But overall, it was an excellent year for Messi both in the national team and club with a total 51 appearances, 30 assists, and 35 goals. Besides, the winning of Trophée des Champions will put Messi forward in the award.
Read More: FIFA World Cup 2022: Messi’s Records, Argentina’s Road to Victory
#2 Kylian Mbappe
The young French talent Mbappe just turned 24 last month, and he can look back on his incredible career so far with pride. As a one-time World Cup winner and a World Cup runner-up, Mbappe is confident that he will break even more records at the tournament in years to come. His ambition and talent are certain to continue to be a formidable force in the world of football.
Kylian Mbappe put his name in the history books with a sensational hat trick in the World Cup 2022 final against Argentina. This incredible feat earned him the Golden Boot and capped off an impressive run at the tournament. The Paris Saint-Germain superstar was a standout performer on the world stage, further reinforcing his reputation as one of the best players of his generation.
#3 Karim Benzema
Although Karim Benzema missed the World Cup, his incredible performance for Real Madrid and France has put him on the nominees' list. Further, his Ballon d’Or winning is another factor in being eligible for this list.
In 2021/2022, Karim Benzema achieved a remarkable feat - he won the La Liga, the Supercopa de Espana, and the Champions League titles with Real Madrid! This success is proof of the strength of his talent and commitment to the sport. It is a great accomplishment for him and for the team as a whole.
Read More: Ronaldo joins Saudi Club Al Nassr: End of an Era in European Football
#4 Kevin De Bruyne
Widely recognized as one of the finest midfielders in the world, Kevin De Bruyne has earned his praises through his impressive long-range passes, assists, and deadly goal-scoring ability. The Manchester City star shines on the pitch and is a top contender for any awards that are up for grabs.
However, at the World Cup 2022, Kevin De Bruyne was unable to prevent Belgium’s aging team from an early exit in the group stage. His performance was far from impressive, leaving many feeling disappointed. But his incredible performance for Manchester City made him listed in the FIFA Men’s Player award.
#5 Robert Lewandowski
At the peak of his career, Robert Lewandowski has become one of the most renowned strikers in the world. His impressive goal-scoring record is well known, and he is being widely discussed as a potential recipient of both the Ballon d’Or and FIFA The Best awards.
The 34-year-old Polish international has made a name for himself in the footballing world. But, he could not put much effort into the national team at the World Cup. It seemed that this could be the last time we see Robert Lewandowski at a World Cup, and he did not have the successful tournament he had hoped for.
Despite this, he still managed to score two goals at a World Cup, which is an impressive accomplishment. But, his club performance in Bayern Munich and Barcelona keep him on the best players list.
Read More: SAFF U-20 Women's Championship kicks off in Dhaka February 3
Final Words
These five players are the top contenders. However, among all the players, Messi is surely ahead in the race. His performance was hugely influential in Argentina’s success, helping them to defeat France in the penalty shootout. This result will undoubtedly give Messi a significant edge in the race to win the Best FIFA Men’s Player award 2022.
SAFF U-20 Women's Championship kicks off in Dhaka February 3
The four-nation SAFF U-20 Women's Championship 2023 will be held in Dhaka from February 3 to11.
South Asian countries India, Nepal, Bhutan and hosts Bangladesh will compete in the tournament organised by the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) under the supervision of Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF).
The competition will initially feature league basis matches at the Birshrestha Shaheed Sipahi Mostafa Kamal Stadium in the capital's Kamalapur.
The decision was taken at a BFF Women' s Football Committee meeting held Sunday at the federation's board room, chaired by committee chair and BFF member Mahfuza Akter Kiron.
The meeting was followed by a local organising committee meeting at the BFF House Sunday.
In the league basis matches, India will play Bhutan in the inaugural match on February 3 at 3pm and Bangladesh will face Nepal at 7pm in the other opening match.
After a one-day break, Bangladesh will face their arch-rivals India on February 5 at 7pm and Nepal will play Bhutan at 3pm.
Bangladesh will play Bhutan on February 7 at 7pm in their last league match while India will lock horns with Nepal at 4pm.
After the league basis matches, the top two teams will play the final on February 9 at 6pm at the same venue.
Rashford scores again as Man United beat Man City 2-1
Marcus Rashford struck the winner as Manchester United came from behind to beat Manchester City 2-1 in the Premier League on Saturday.
United issued a statement of its title intent with victory in the 189th Manchester derby to move within a point of the reigning champions.
Substitute Jack Grealish had put City ahead in the second half, but goals from Bruno Fernandes and Rashford secured the win for Eric ten Hag’s team at Old Trafford.
It was Rashford’s 16th goal of the season and his eighth in his last seven games.
The win sends United up to third place. It’s the team’s ninth straight victory in all competitions.
United ended a three-game losing streak to City that included a 6-3 rout in October. United, however, has been much-improved since then, moving into the top four.
This was the sternest test of its resurgence under Ten Hag, even with City coming off a surprise 2-0 loss to Southampton in the English League Cup on Wednesday.
United had the better chances in the first half, with Rashford having one shot cleared off the line by Manuel Akanji after rounding Ederson and then seeing another effort smothered by the City goalkeeper.
City took control after the break and Grealish opened the scoring in the 60th minute, just three minutes after coming on, when he headed in Kevin de Bruyne’s cross.
United evened the score against the run of play when Fernandes struck in the 78th minute.
The goal was initially ruled out by the referee’s assistant because Rashford was in an offside position. However, that decision was overruled by VAR after it was confirmed the United forward did not touch the ball before Fernandes struck.
Rashford then hit the winner from close range just four minutes later when he converted substitute Alejandro Garnacho’s cross.
BPL Football: Sheikh Jamal DC beat Russell KC 3-2
In a battle of former champions, Sheikh Jamal Dhanmondi Club beat Sheikh Russell Krira Chakra 3-2 in a tightly contested match of the eleven-team Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) Football 2022-23 Saturday afternoon in Gopalganj.
At the Sheikh Fazlul Haque Moni Stadium, Sheikh Jamal dominated the first half 1-0.
After the day's match, Sheikh Jamal remained in the third spot after securing 11 points from five matches. Former champions Dhaka Abahani remained in the second spot with a better goal difference after earning 11 points from five matches.
Read: Bangladesh Championship League: Brothers Union beat Fortis Academy 1-0
Sheikh Russell stayed in the fourth spot with six points from four matches.
Defending champions Bashundhara Kings are leading the points table with 15 points from five straight matches.
In the day's match, St Vincent forward Stewart put Sheikh Jamal ahead in the 34th minute (1-0). Bangladeshi forward Mannaf Rabby doubled the lead in the 49th minute (2-0).
Uzbek defender Timur Talipov pulled one back for Sheikh Russell in the 69th minute (2-1).
Read: Bangladesh Championship League: Wanderers overpower Little Friends 4-1
However, Uzbek midfielder Mavlonov again put Sheikh Jamal in front in the 74th minute (3-1).
Nigerian striker Sunday Udoh made it 3-2 for Sheikh Russel in the 75th minute.
The day's other BPL match between Rahmatganj MFS and Fortis FC ended in a goalless draw at the Muktijoddha Smriti Stadium in Rajshahi.
Barça beats Betis to set up Super Cup final against Madrid
Marc-André ter Stegen saved two penalties and Pedri converted the deciding spot kick as Barcelona defeated Real Betis 4-2 in a shootout Thursday to set up a Spanish Super Cup final against rival Real Madrid this weekend in Saudi Arabia.
Madrid defeated Valencia on penalties in the other semifinal on Wednesday, when Thibaut Courtois made the decisive save.
“Ter Stegen makes the difference,” Barcelona coach Xavi said. “He makes the two saves and sends us to the final.”
Read more: Ronaldo set to face PSG, Messi in first game in Saudi Arabia
The decisive match will be on Sunday at the King Fahd Stadium in Riyadh.
Barcelona converted all four of its penalties in the shootout and Ter Stegen stopped the efforts by Juanmi and Willian Carvalho to give the Catalan club the victory.
“The match was super difficult, Betis made it tough for us,” Ter Stegen said. “In the end it’s about making it to finals, and we've made it. You also need some luck in the shootout, and this time it was on our side.”
The teams drew 1-1 in regulation after Robert Lewandowski scored for Barcelona in the first half and Nabil Fekir equalized for Betis near the end. The score was 2-2 after extra time as Ansu Fati gave Barcelona an early lead and Loren Morón equalized again for Betis.
In the shootout, Fati, Lewandowski and Franck Kessie also scored for Barcelona. Morón and Willian José converted for Betis.
It will be the first time Spanish powerhouses Barcelona and Madrid meet in the Super Cup final since the competition was revamped and taken to Saudi Arabia in 2020.
“It will be a beautiful match,” Ter Stegen said. “Everyone here wants to see a match like this and I’m thrilled to be able to play in it and to try to win it.”
Madrid will try to equal Barcelona with 13 Spanish Super Cup trophies, the most among all clubs. Barcelona will be trying to win its first Super Cup trophy since 2018.
Manuel Pellegrini’s Betis was trying to reach its first Super Cup final since 2005, when it lost to Barcelona.
“We are disappointed, the team played a great match," Pellegrini said. “We felt like we deserved to win in regulation but it wasn't possible, and then Ter Stegen made some good saves.”
Read more: Late goals help PSG beat 3rd-tier Châteauroux in French Cup
The Super Cup used to be played only between the Spanish league champion and the Copa del Rey winner, but now the runners-up in both competitions also participate in Final Four tournament that was taken to Saudi Arabia in a lucrative deal for the Spanish soccer federation.
Madrid defeated Barcelona 3-1 at home in the first “clásico” of the season at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in October.
Lewandowski scored his first goal since the World Cup after a pass from Ousmane Dembélé in the 40th minute. He scored in Poland’s 3-1 loss to France in December in the round of 16 in Qatar, but hadn’t found the net for Barcelona since a 1-0 win at Valencia in the Spanish league in October.
Betis equalized in the 77th when Fekir sent a low shot past Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen.
Lewandowski thought he had scored his second — and a possible winner late in regulation — but the goal was disallowed for offside in the buildup.
Fati scored early in extra time with a volley from just inside the area, and Morón evened the match about 10 minutes later with a backheel touch from close range.
Betis played the final minutes of extra time with 10 men as Andrés Guardado was sent off with a second yellow card for a hard foul.
Bangladesh Championship League: Brothers Union beat Fortis Academy 1-0
Brothers Union managed a 1-0 win against Fortis Football Academy in the only Bangladesh Championship League (BCL) Football 2022-23 match Thursday.
At the Birshreshtha Shaheed Shipahi Mohammad Mostafa Kamal Stadium in Dhaka's Kamalapur, Jewel Mollick scored the match-winning goal for Brothers in the 45th minute.
Two BCL matches will be held on Friday at the same venue.
Read more: BCL Football:Fakirerpool YC beat Gopalganj SC 3-2; Brothers Union beat Little Friends 2-1
Gopalganj Sporting Club will play BFF Elite Football Academy at 10:30am and Fakirerpool Youngmen's Club will face NoFel Sporting Club at 3pm.
Bangladesh Championship League: Wanderers overpower Little Friends 4-1
Dhaka Wanderers Club thumped Little Friends Club 4-1 in the Bangladesh Championship League (BCL) Football 2022-23 Wednesday afternoon.
At the Birshreshtha Shaheed Shipahi Mohammad Mostafa Kamal Stadium in Dhaka's Kamalapur, Wanderers dominated the first half 2-0.
Sourav put them ahead in the seventh minute (1-0) and Shohag added another in the 24th (2-0). Shihab scored the third goal for Wanderers in the 56th (3-0).
Zahidul pulled one back for Little Friends in the 66th minute (3-1). Golam Sarwar scored the fourth goal for Wanderers in the 88th (4-1).
Read more: Bangladesh Championship League: Swadhinata KS off to good start beating Little Friends 2-0
Coming from behind, Wari Club defeated Swadhinata Krira Sangha 2-1 at the same venue in the day's other league match.
Shamimul scored first for Swadhinata in the ninth minute (1-0). Shakil equalised for Wari in the 51st (1-1).
Ali Akbar scored the match-winning goal for Wari in the 96th (2-1).
Read more: Bangladesh Championship League: BFF Elite Academy beat Wari Club 2-1