United News of Bangladesh

Zamora, Spain / Liverpool, UK – July 3, 2025 In a devastating blow to world football, Diogo Jota, 28, the revered forward for Liverpool FC and the Portugal national team, was killed in a car crash in northwestern Spain in the early hours of July 3. According to local authorities, Jota was travelling on the A‑52 near Palacios de Sanabria in Zamora province when the vehicle veered off the road and burst into flames, claiming his life and that of his brother, André, aged 25‑26, who also perished in the collision. Emergency services, including firefighters and medical teams, responded promptly to numerous 112 calls. On arrival, they found the car completely ablaze, with both brothers already deceased. The incident reportedly occurred around kilometer 65 of the motorway at approximately 00:35 local time. Jota had been in Spain on holiday following his wedding to long-time partner Rute Cardoso on June 22. The couple, who have three young children, had recently celebrated their marriage publicly, marking a joyous occasion widely shared by fans and loved ones. Originally from Porto, Diogo José Teixeira da Silva rose to prominence in Europe with FC Porto and Wolverhampton Wanderers before joining Liverpool in 2020 for a reported £41 million. He quickly became instrumental to the Reds, contributing 47 goals in 123 appearances and playing a key part in their Premier League title win earlier this year. Read more: Ritu Porna Chakma: The Heroine behind Bangladesh’s Historic Performance in the 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup qualification The football community has been left stunned. Liverpool FC, along with the Portuguese national team, are expected to issue official statements in the coming hours. Tributes from teammates, fans, and fellow professionals around the world have already begun to pour in (vg.no). A spokesperson from Spanish state broadcaster TVE confirmed the reports, adding that firefighters at the scene had verified Jota’s identity. At this tragic moment, the world mourns not only a gifted athlete known for his explosive pace and clinical finishing, but also a devoted brother, husband, and father. Both Diogo and André Jota will be remembered with deep sorrow and affection by those lucky enough to have known them. Further details are awaited as local investigations continue into the exact circumstances of the crash. Our thoughts go out to the Jota family and the entire Liverpool and Portugal football community during this time of heartbreaking loss. Read more: CA Yunus hails historic Asian Cup qualification by Bangladesh women footballers

When the final whistle blew at Thuwunna Stadium in Yangon on July 2, 2025, the roar from the Bangladesh women’s national football team could be felt across the nation. They had done it—secured their first-ever spot in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026, to be played under the bright lights of Australia. In the 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup qualification tournament, the 2-1 victory over Myanmar wasn’t just a win; it was a moment that united a country, sparked joy in every corner, and put Bangladeshi women’s football on the global map. And at the heart of it all was 21-year-old Ritu Porna Chakma, a young woman from Rangamati whose two breathtaking goals turned a dream into reality. A Star Born in the Hills Ritu’s story feels like it was written in the stars, but it’s rooted in the rugged beauty of Rangamati, where she was born on December 30, 2003. She fell in love with football in 2012, chasing a ball with the kind of joy only a kid can have. By 2013, at just 10 years old, she was already stealing the show at the Bangamata Gold Cup Football tournament, representing her school. Her quick feet, sharp passes, and fearless spirit made people sit up and take notice. Coaches saw something special—a spark that could light up the future. Ritu didn’t just play football; she lived it. By 2021, she was scoring for fun in the SAFF U-19 Championship, netting twice against Sri Lanka in Dhaka’s Bir Shrestha Shaheed Shipahi Mostafa Kamal Stadium. In 2022, she stepped up to the senior team, helping Bangladesh clinch the SAFF Women’s Championship. But it was 2024 that made her a legend. In the SAFF final in Kathmandu, with the game on the line, Ritu scored a dramatic 80th-minute winner against Nepal at Dasharath Stadium. That 2-1 victory wasn’t just about retaining the title—it was about showing the world what Bangladesh could do. Read more: CA Yunus hails historic Asian Cup qualification by Bangladesh women footballers Table: Career Summary of Ritu Porna Chakma  Career Milestones Details 2012 Began playing football 2013 Represented school in Bangamata Gold Cup Football tournament 2021 Scored twice against Sri Lanka in SAFF U-19 Championship 2022 Contributed to SAFF Women’s Championship as a substitute, scoring two goals 2024 Scored winning goal in SAFF Championship final against Nepal 2025 Scored brace against Myanmar in AFC Women’s Asian Cup qualifiers . Rising Above Personal Trials Ritu Porna Chakma’s journey to football stardom is as much about heart as it is about skill. Born in Rangamati, Bangladesh, this 21-year-old winger faced profound personal challenges that would have tested anyone’s spirit. In 2015, the tragic loss of her father, Bolaz Bashi Chakma, left young Ritu with the weight of supporting her mother, Kala Sona Chakma, and her family. Yet, even as responsibilities mounted, Ritu’s love for football never wavered. Her determination only grew stronger, fueled by a promise to honor her family through her passion. The pain of loss struck again when Ritu’s brother passed away in a tragic accident. In a deeply moving moment during a match against Pakistan, she dedicated a goal to him, a testament to her emotional strength and the love she carries for her family. For Ritu, every step on the pitch is a tribute to those she’s lost and a beacon of hope for those she lifts up. Her resilience has not only shaped her as a player but also inspired a nation. Read more: Bangladesh collapse in first ODI vs Sri Lanka The Night That Changed History: Bangladesh vs. Myanmar On July 2, 2025, Ritu Porna Chakma and the Bangladesh women’s national team scripted a night to remember at Thuwunna Stadium in Yangon. Facing a formidable Myanmar side—ranked 55th globally, a staggering 73 places above Bangladesh’s 128th—the Bengal Tigresses took the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 qualifiers by storm. The match was more than a game; it was a chance for redemption after Bangladesh’s 5-0 loss to Myanmar in the 2018 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers at the same venue. Ritu rose to the occasion with breathtaking brilliance. In the 19th minute, she seized a rebound from her own free kick and unleashed a thunderous angular shot from the top of the box, outwitting Myanmar’s defense and goalkeeper to give Bangladesh a 1-0 lead. As Myanmar fought back in the second half, pressing for an equalizer, Ritu struck again. In the 72nd minute, her precise left-footed shot from the left wing soared past the keeper, securing a 2-0 lead. Though Myanmar’s Win Win pulled one back late in the game, Bangladesh held their ground for a historic 2-1 victory. Table: Stats of Bangladesh Squad in the 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup qualification Match Details: Bangladesh vs. Myanmar Information Date July 2, 2025 Venue Thuwunna Stadium, Yangon Final Score Bangladesh 2-1 Myanmar Bangladesh Goals Ritu Porna Chakma (19th min, 72nd min) Myanmar Goal Win Win (late goal) Impact Secured Bangladesh’s qualification for AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 . The win was sealed as Group C’s defining moment when Bahrain and Turkmenistan played out a 2-2 draw later that day, confirming Bangladesh as group winners and earning them a coveted spot in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 in Australia. For Ritu and her teammates, this triumph was more than a qualification—it was a statement that Bangladesh’s women belong on the global stage. Read more: Chelsea signs Brazil forward Joao Pedro from Brighton A Legacy in the Making Ritu Porna Chakma’s story is one of courage, talent, and unbreakable spirit. From the hills of Rangamati to the international spotlight, she has carried the dreams of her family and her nation. Her brace against Myanmar wasn’t just about goals; it was about proving that no obstacle is too big, no opponent too strong, and no dream too distant. As Bangladesh prepares to take on the world in 2026, Ritu stands as the heart and soul of a team that’s rewriting history—one fearless step at a time. Kicking Off with Fire The Bangladesh women’s football team, with the unstoppable Ritu Porna Chakma leading the charge, has written a story that’s got the whole country buzzing. Their road to the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 started with a bang on June 29, 2025, when they crushed Bahrain 7-0 in the qualifiers. Ritu got on the scoresheet, alongside her teammates Shamsunnahar J, Kohati Kisku, Tohura Khatun, Munki Akhter, and even a helping hand from Bahrain’s Rawan Alali with an own goal. Then came the heart-pounding 2-1 win against Myanmar on July 2, 2025 a first for Bangladesh, stringing together back-to-back victories in the AFC qualifiers. Head coach Peter Butler, with his calm but firm words about staying grounded, has molded this team into something special. The Bengal Tigresses aren’t just playing; they’re rewriting what South Asian football looks like with their bold, attacking style. Smashing Stereotypes, One Goal at a Time This qualification for the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup in Australia isn’t just about football; it’s about breaking barriers. Bangladesh, the first South Asian team in 22 years to make it this far, has defied expectations in a country where women’s football often fights an uphill battle. With young stars like Ritu leading the way, this moment feels like a turning point. It’s a burst of pride for the nation and a loud message to every girl watching: you can dream big, and you can win. The Tigresses are proving that women’s football in South Asia is here to stay, and it’s only getting stronger. Read more: Bangladesh edge closer to AFC Women’s Asian Cup final round after defeating Myanmar Ritu, the Heart of the Team As the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 looms, Ritu Porna Chakma is the name on everyone’s lips. She’s got that rare gift—thriving when the pressure’s on, with skills that dazzle and a spirit that doesn’t quit. With one last group match against Turkmenistan on July 5, 2025, the Tigresses are hungry to keep their fire burning and show Asia what they’re made of. Ritu’s journey from the quiet hills of Rangamati to the roar of international stadiums is the kind of story that gives you chills. Her two goals against Myanmar weren’t just about winning a game; they were about carving out a legacy. As Bangladesh celebrates this historic moment, Ritu stands as a symbol of what's possible when talent meets heart. She’s not just playing for herself; she’s lighting the way for a new generation of girls to run, kick, and dream without limits. Read more: Ruman Shana: The Archer Who Put Bangladesh on the Map

Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has congratulated the Bangladesh women’s football team for their historic qualification to the final round of the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup, calling it a proud moment for the entire nation. In a message, Prof Yunus said the achievement is not only a milestone for women’s football but a symbol of national pride, talent, and spirit. “This success showcases our potential and determination,” he said. “I believe it will inspire future generations and enhance Bangladesh’s image on the global stage.” Launch e-learning in at least 100 schools in CHT by this year: Chief Adviser Bangladesh made history on Wednesday by defeating hosts Myanmar 2-1 in Yangon, sealing their place in the Asian Cup finals for the first time. The victory gave them six points from two matches in Group C of the qualifying round. Later in the evening, a 2-2 draw between Bahrain and Turkmenistan ensured Bangladesh’s position as group champions—confirming their qualification with one match still to play. Bangladesh are the first team from the qualifiers to reach the final round, joining already-qualified sides Australia (as hosts), and Japan, South Korea, and China (top finishers from the previous edition). Bangladesh edge closer to AFC Women’s Asian Cup final round after defeating Myanmar The 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup is scheduled to be held in Australia, featuring 12 teams. Until now, the only appearance by a Bangladesh national team in an Asian Cup final round was in 1980, when the men’s team played in Kuwait.

Joao Pedro joined Chelsea from Brighton on Wednesday to continue the Premier League club's lavish spending under American owners Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital. The Brazil forward cost a reported 60 million pounds ($82 million) and has signed a contract through to 2033. “Everyone knows this is a big club with a great history,” Joao Pedro said. “They had brilliant players in the past and have brilliant players now. So I am excited to join and you know when you are a Chelsea player you must think one thing — win.” The Brazil international has joined up with Chelsea's squad at the Club World Cup in the United States and is eligible to play in Friday's quarterfinal against Palmeiras. Joao Pedro is Chelsea’s fifth major signing this offseason after previous deals for Liam Delap, Dario Essugo, Kendry Paez and Mamadou Sarr. Under Boehly and Clearlake, who bought Chelsea in 2022, the six-time English champion has spent well in excess of $1 billion on transfers, including British record fees for Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo. The 23-year-old Joao Pedro hit 10 goals in 32 appearances for Brighton last season and scored 30 across two years with the club. Leverkusen signs England Under-21 defender Jarell Quansah from Liverpool He is the latest player to leave Brighton for Chelsea in a big-money move in recent years after deals for Marc Cucurella, Robert Sanchez and Caicedo. The move also represents a sizeable profit for Brighton after signing Joao Pedro from Watford for 30 million pounds ($41 million) in 2023. “This is a good move for all parties. It’s an excellent deal for the club, and a good return on a significant investment in an area of the pitch where we have a lot of competition and are already well served in terms of our attacking talent," said Brighton coach Fabian Hurzeler. Joao Pedro’s arrival comes as Chelsea prepares for a return to the Champions League after a two-year absence. Under coach Enzo Maresca, the London club finished fourth in the Premier League last season, its highest place since Boehly and Clearlake bought out former owner Roman Abramovich, and also won the UEFA Conference League. Chelsea can add to that at the Club World Cup, but the expectation next season will be to challenge for a first Premier League title under its American owners.

The Bangladesh Women’s Football Team moved within touching distance of their first-ever final round appearance in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup defeating hosts Myanmar 2-1 in a hard-fought Group C encounter at Yangon’s Thuwunna Stadium on Wednesday afternoon. Ritu Porna Chakma was the star of the match, netting both goals for Bangladesh — one in each half — to secure the memorable victory over Myanmar, ranked 73 places higher. With this well-deserved win, Bangladesh not only recorded back-to-back win in the Asian Cup qualifiers for the first time in history the result also served as sweet revenge for their 0-5 defeat to Myanmar in the 2018 FIFA Women’s World Cup Qualifiers held in Yangon. Two-time ASEAN Women’s Champions Myanmar, who have featured in the AFC Asian Cup final round five times, looked off-colour against a spirited and confident Bangladesh side. With Wednesday’s shock defeat, Myanmar—the top seed in Group C—crashed out of the tournament, having lost the head-to-head encounter against Bangladesh. Bangladesh’s place in the final round could be confirmed as early as Wednesday evening if Bahrain and Turkmenistan play out a draw in the day’s second Group C fixture. The wonder girl from Rangamati, Ritu Porna Chakma, gave Bangladesh the lead in the 18th minute. Her initial free-kick attempt struck the Myanmar defence wall, but Ritu reacted quickest to fire home from the rebound and put Bangladesh 1-0 up. AFC Women's Asian Cup: Bangladesh will play hosts Myanmar on Wednesday to stay in group race  She doubled Bangladesh’s advantage in the 72nd minute with a brilliant angular left-footed strike from inside the box. Myanmar managed a late consolation through substitute midfielder Win Win, who scored in the 89th minute, but Bangladesh held firm to secure the historic win. Bangladesh will face Turkmenistan in their final Group C match at 6:30 pm (BST) on July 5, also at Thuwunna Stadium. The outcome will have no bearing on Bangladesh’s position if they are confirmed as group champions by Wednesday night. The champion of Group C will earn direct qualification to the final round of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup, scheduled to be held in Australia next year.

Bayer Leverkusen has signed Liverpool’s Jarell Quansah in a club-record deal for a defender, replacing former captain Jonathan Tah. The 22-year-old Quansah has agreed to a contract until June 2030 and will take over Tah’s No. 4 shirt, the Bundesliga champions announced on Wednesday. The transfer fee reportedly exceeds €30 million ($35.3 million) and could rise to €40 million ($47 million) with bonuses, roughly matching the amount Liverpool agreed to pay Leverkusen for Dutch right-back Jeremie Frimpong in May. Liverpool has also reportedly secured a buy-back clause for Quansah, allowing them to re-sign him for more than €60 million ($70.6 million) after two seasons at Leverkusen. Mbappé makes Club World Cup debut as Real Madrid edge Juventus This is the second major transfer between the clubs in recent weeks, as Leverkusen sold star midfielder Florian Wirtz to Liverpool last month for a Bundesliga-record fee. Jonathan Tah, who spent 10 years at Leverkusen, moved to league rivals Bayern Munich after the season ended, having declined a contract extension. Tah played a crucial role in Leverkusen’s historic unbeaten run to the Bundesliga and German Cup titles in the 2023-24 season. Quansah, who recently helped England win the Under-21 European Championship, struggled to secure a regular place in Liverpool’s starting lineup behind Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté. Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes described Quansah as "one of the most promising English central defenders," praising his speed, agility, technical ability, and toughness in defense. “Jarell has already made an impressive impact in a Liverpool defense filled with world-class players. His arrival brings more dynamism, pace, and physical strength to our defense. He’s another crucial piece of our puzzle,” Rolfes said. AFC Women's Asian Cup: Bangladesh will play hosts Myanmar on Wednesday to stay in group race  In addition, Leverkusen recently signed 20-year-old Senegalese defender Abdoulaye Faye from Swedish side BK Häcken for a reported €3 million ($3.5 million), with plans to loan him out for the upcoming season.

Kylian Mbappé made his long-awaited Club World Cup debut for Real Madrid on Tuesday, coming off the bench in their 1-0 victory over Juventus to secure a quarterfinal spot. Mbappé, who missed Madrid’s first three matches due to illness, entered the match in the 68th minute to a loud ovation from the Hard Rock Stadium crowd. He interacted with fans before taking off his warm-up and showed flashes of activity on the pitch, although he didn’t score. Gonzalo García, the 21-year-old who had filled in for Mbappé during the group stage, scored the winning goal with a header before being substituted for the French star. Mbappé had been sidelined with a gastrointestinal illness, requiring hospital treatment, but Real Madrid still managed to progress unbeaten, with García contributing three goals in as many matches. AFC Women's Asian Cup: Bangladesh will play hosts Myanmar on Wednesday to stay in group race  Coach Xabi Alonso did not confirm whether Mbappé will start in Saturday's quarterfinal against either Borussia Dortmund or Monterrey at MetLife Stadium. "He’s improving every day. I think he’ll be even better by the quarterfinals," Alonso said. Mbappé’s return adds star power to the tournament, which saw Lionel Messi and Inter Miami exit in the round of 16 after losing to PSG. Source: Agency 

With a sweet memory of crushing higher ranked Bahrain by 7-0 goals in the group opener, high flying Bangladesh will play top seed and hosts Myanmar in their 2nd Group C match of the AFC Asian Cup Australia 2026 Qualifiers on Wednesday hoping to stay ahead in the race. The vital match of the four-team Group C between two teams will kick-off at 3:30  pm Bangladesh time at the Thuwunna Stadium in Yangon. After the first round matches, both the Myanmar and Bangladesh have secured three points each, but hosts Myanmar topped Group C list by virtue of better goal difference scoring eight goals against Bangladesh's seven goals. Only the group champions are ensured a ticket to Australia 2026. In Wednesday's vital match, two times SAFF Women's champions Bangladesh have to manage atleast a draw against their 73rd ranked higher Myanmar to keep their hope alive to be group champions. In their last meeting in the World Cup Qualifiers in 2018 in Yangon, Bangladesh suffered 0-5 goals defeat against Myanmar. However, Bangladesh not worried about the ranking after their maiden victory in the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers with style outplaying another higher ranked Bahrain by 7-0 goals at the same venue last Sunday. Women’s Asian Cup: Bangladesh team keep fit ahead of vital match against Myanmar Ahead of the crucial match against tough opponents Myanmar, Bangladesh made official training session Tuesday morning from 7 am to 9: am at the Training  Field-5 in Yangon. Bangladeshi players are focused, motivated and looking forward for continuing  their strong performances in the tournament they displayed against the Bahrain. In their first matches, Bangladesh outplayed Bahrain by 7-0 goals while hosts Myanmar crushed Turkmenistan by 8-0 goals last Sunday. In the Sunday’s opening match, experienced forward Tohura Khatun scored twice, Shamsunnahar Junior, Ritu  Porna Chakma, Kohati Kisku and Munki Akhter scored one each for the Bangladesh team, which dominated the first half by 5-0 goals, Rawan Al Ali of Bahrain scored a suicidal goal to increased Bangladesh margin further. In remaining Group C match, Bangladesh will face lowly rated Turkmenistan on July 5 at 6:30 pm (BST) also at Thuwunna Stadium in Yangon. The champion of the four-team Group C will earn the right to play in the finals round of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup in Australia next year.

Manchester City suffered a shocking exit from the Club World Cup after a thrilling 4-3 extra-time defeat to Saudi Arabian champions Al Hilal, marking one of the tournament’s most memorable upsets. The pulsating encounter in Orlando, which stretched over 120 minutes, was decided by a late goal from Marcos Leonardo in the 112th minute, securing Al Hilal’s place in the quarter-finals against Fluminense. City dominated the opening stages, with Jérémy Doku’s pace troubling the Al Hilal defence. Their persistence paid off early, as Bernardo Silva pounced on a loose ball inside the box to give the European champions the lead in the 9th minute. Despite enjoying possession for much of the first half, Guardiola’s men couldn’t extend their advantage. Al Hilal had a brief moment of hope when they thought they had won a penalty, but VAR ruled out the opportunity for offside in the build-up. City came close to snatching victory in normal time, only for Al Hilal to clear off the line amid a frantic goalmouth scramble. With the scores locked at 2-2 after 90 minutes, the game headed to extra time. The Saudi side struck first in the added period, as Kalidou Koulibaly rose highest from a corner to nod them in front. City responded swiftly, with substitute Phil Foden levelling the score after latching onto a clever pass from recent signing Rayan Cherki. However, the decisive moment came when City goalkeeper Ederson pulled off a superb save to deny Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, only for the rebound to fall kindly for Leonardo, who slotted home the winner. The result marked a bitter disappointment for Manchester City, while Al Hilal, now under the guidance of former Inter Milan boss Simone Inzaghi, celebrated a famous victory and progression to the next round. Source: Gulf News

Marcos Leonardo scored his second goal on a rebound in the 112th minute as Al Hilal stunned Premier League powerhouse Manchester City 4-3 on Monday, eliminating them from the Club World Cup in the round of 16. In a thrilling, back-and-forth contest at Camping World Stadium, the Saudi Arabian club took the lead three times, including twice in extra time. Kalidou Koulibaly put Al Hilal ahead 3-2 in the 94th minute, but Phil Foden — who entered the match just four minutes earlier — equalized in the 104th. Leonardo finally sealed the victory for Al Hilal when Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson saved a header by Sergej Milinkovic-Savic from inside the penalty area. The ball deflected to Leonardo, who redirected it with his right foot as he fell near the left post. With the upset, Al Hilal advances to face Brazilian side Fluminense, who eliminated another European giant, Inter Milan, earlier on Tuesday. Neves scores twice as PSG crush Messi's Inter Miami 4-0 at Club World Cup Leonardo also scored in the 46th minute to bring the match level at 1-1 after Bernardo Silva had given Manchester City an early lead in the ninth minute. Malcom put Al Hilal ahead again in the 52nd, only for Erling Haaland to find the net three minutes later and make it 2-2. Key Moment Manchester City nearly won the match in regulation during the final seconds of added time with a counterattack that was stopped by a hard challenge in the penalty area. Referees declined to award a penalty, prompting City manager Pep Guardiola to run onto the pitch in protest after the final whistle. Next Match Al Hilal will face Fluminense on July 4 at Camping World Stadium for a place in the semifinals. Source: AP