United News of Bangladesh

FIFA paid tribute to Liverpool forward Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva before the Club World Cup quarterfinal games in the United States on Friday, following their tragic deaths in a car crash in Spain. The bodies of 28-year-old Jota and 25-year-old Silva were found near Zamora in northwestern Spain after the Lamborghini they were driving crashed and burst into flames on an isolated stretch of highway shortly after midnight on Thursday. At Camping World Stadium in Orlando, ahead of the match between Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal and Brazil’s Fluminense, players from both teams formed a circle at midfield as the video board displayed a photo of the Portuguese brothers. Spectators observed a moment of silence to honor them. A similar tribute took place at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, where Brazil's Palmeiras faced England’s Chelsea. A black-and-white photo of Jota and Silva was displayed on the stadium screen as players from both teams wore black armbands in remembrance. Diogo Jota and brother killed in Spain crash, Portugal prepares for funeral Chelsea player Pedro Neto, a Portugal national teammate and friend of Diogo Jota, made the sign of the cross as he walked onto the pitch with a jersey draped over his shoulder bearing the first names of Jota and André Silva. During the moment of silence, Neto held up the jersey with the help of teammate Enzo Fernández. Spanish police said the cause of the accident is under investigation, though no other vehicles were involved. Authorities suspect a blown tire may have caused the crash. The tragedy comes just two weeks after Jota married his longtime partner, Rute Cardoso, while on vacation following Liverpool’s Premier League-winning season. The couple had three children, the youngest born last year. Silva played for Portuguese club Penafiel, which competes in the country’s lower football divisions.

Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has been charged with five counts of rape, British police confirmed on Friday. In addition to the rape charges, Partey faces one count of sexual assault. The alleged offenses took place between 2021 and 2022, according to police. Partey’s lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, told Britain's Press Association that he “denies all the charges against him,” adding: “He now welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name.” The 32-year-old Ghanaian international is currently a free agent after his contract with Arsenal expired at the end of last season. Partey joined the Premier League club in 2020 from Spanish side Atletico Madrid for 45.3 million pounds ($61.8 million). Diogo Jota and brother killed in Spain crash, Portugal prepares for funeral Police said the investigation began in February 2022 following an initial report of rape. The five rape charges involve two women, while the sexual assault charge relates to a third woman. “Our priority remains providing support to the women who have come forward,” Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy of the Metropolitan Police said. Partey is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, August 5, police said.

Claudio Ranieri has turned down the opportunity to coach Italy’s national football team, opting not to take on the challenge where Roberto Mancini and Gian Piero Ventura both struggled — leading the four-time world champions back to the World Cup. Ranieri, one of Italy’s most respected and admired coaches, confirmed on Tuesday that he rejected the offer to guide Italy’s troubled World Cup qualification campaign. Italy has not played in a World Cup since 2014. “I am grateful to President Gabriele Gravina for considering me,” Ranieri told Italian news agency ANSA, referring to the head of the Italian Football Federation. The coaching role became vacant just five days after Italy suffered a humiliating 3-0 defeat to group leaders Norway in their opening World Cup qualifier. Despite that setback, coach Luciano Spalletti was allowed to oversee Italy’s next match, a 2-0 win over Moldova, before his dismissal. Ranieri, 73, appeared to be an available candidate after once again stabilizing AS Roma this season. Following his coaching success, Ranieri had transitioned to an advisory role with the club's Texas-based owners, the Friedkin family. “The Friedkin family gave me their full backing to make my own decision regarding the national team, but the choice was entirely mine,” Ranieri explained to ANSA. Diogo Jota and brother killed in Spain crash, Portugal prepares for funeral The veteran coach received an emotional farewell from Roma supporters for a second consecutive season. He had previously saved Cagliari from relegation, cementing his reputation for reviving struggling teams. Calling the Italy job “a great honor,” Ranieri said he took time to reflect and ultimately chose to remain committed to his role with Roma. Ranieri’s illustrious 40-year coaching career includes only a brief spell at the international level — four matches with Greece in 2014, a rare low point in his managerial record. However, he famously rebuilt his reputation by guiding Leicester City to their historic English Premier League title in 2016, defying all expectations. By the time Ranieri left Leicester in 2017, Italy had already begun their ill-fated 2018 World Cup qualifying campaign under Ventura, which ended with a playoff defeat to Sweden after finishing second to Spain in the group stage. Italy’s qualification woes continued in 2022 when the European champions, led by Mancini, finished behind Switzerland in their group and were shockingly eliminated by North Macedonia in the playoff semifinal. With just under three months to appoint a new coach, Italy faces Estonia on September 5 in their five-team Group I qualifiers. Norway leads the group, having won four consecutive games with star striker Erling Haaland scoring in each. Italy sits third, nine points adrift but with two games in hand. Israel is currently second. Spain thrash Portugal 5-0 in Women’s Euro opener as González makes history Italy will host Norway in their final qualifier on November 16. Only the group winner will secure a direct spot in the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The runner-up will have to compete in the playoff rounds next March.

Family and friends of Liverpool forward Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva gathered on Friday at a chapel in Portugal ahead of the wake and funeral, following the tragic car crash that claimed their lives in Spain. Mourners hugged and wept as they arrived at the Capela da Ressurreição São Cosme, where funeral services for the brothers are scheduled to take place on Saturday. Jota, 28, and his 25-year-old brother were killed when their Lamborghini crashed on an isolated stretch of highway near Zamora in northwestern Spain just after midnight on Thursday. The vehicle burst into flames following the accident.  Spanish authorities confirmed the brothers’ identities after their bodies were repatriated to Portugal. Jota, a native of Porto, began his football journey in Gondomar, a working-class town neighbouring the city. He and his parents maintained homes there, keeping close ties with the community where his career began. The tragedy occurred just two weeks after Jota married his long-time partner, Rute Cardoso, during a holiday break following a demanding football season. Jota, who played a key role in Liverpool’s recent Premier League title triumph, leaves behind his wife and their three children, the youngest born last year. Spain thrash Portugal 5-0 in Women’s Euro opener as González makes history Spanish police confirmed they are investigating the cause of the crash, noting that no other vehicles were involved. André Silva, Jota’s younger brother, was also a footballer, playing for Portuguese lower-division side Penafiel. Following the news, condolences poured in from across Portugal and the global football community. Liverpool fans laid floral tributes and team scarves outside Anfield stadium, while a moment of silence was observed before Portugal’s match against Spain at the Women’s European Championship in Switzerland. In Gondomar, where Jota started playing football at the age of nine, the loss was deeply felt. “He never forgot his roots, nor his friends, because he had a group of friends who were with him in the training here in Gondomar and who he even invited from time to time to go and watch Liverpool games in England,” said Anselmo Serra, director of Gondomar SC, speaking to The Associated Press. “They were like a group of friends that he never forgot over the years.”

Esther González scored twice as world champions Spain sent a clear message by thrashing Portugal 5-0 in their opening match of the Women’s European Championship on Thursday. The 32-year-old González, who became Spain’s oldest player to feature in the tournament, opened the scoring before 18-year-old Vicky López, the youngest in the squad, added the second goal. Spain captain Alexia Putellas was also on the scoresheet, signaling her readiness to lead the side to success after missing Euro 2022 due to a knee injury. Spain had exited that tournament in the quarterfinals, losing to eventual champions England. “We’ve been saying for a long time how motivated we are for this Euro, and now we had to prove it. We have reasons to be satisfied,” Putellas told Spain’s TVE. Cristina Martin-Prieto sealed the win with a stoppage-time header. González wasted no time, scoring after just 87 seconds with a clever flick past Portuguese goalkeeper Inês Pereira, who endured a busy night. Although Pereira managed to stop a cross, she couldn’t prevent Mariona Caldentey from setting up López for a simple finish soon after. 'It doesn't make sense,' Ronaldo reacts to Jota's death A Mexican wave started among the nearly 30,000 spectators at Wankdorf Stadium — home to Swiss club Young Boys, whose women’s team shares the same name — just 24 minutes into the game. Spain controlled possession with a polished first-half display, constantly offering passing options and leaving Portugal chasing shadows. Putellas narrowly missed, Pereira denied Clàudia Pina, but the third goal came in the 41st minute when Putellas showcased superb control to beat a defender and score. González added her second two minutes later, converting the rebound after Pina’s effort struck the post. Spain's second-half performance dipped slightly, though Martin-Prieto added a fifth in stoppage time. Star midfielder Aitana Bonmatí, a two-time Ballon d’Or winner, remained on the bench until the 81st minute, having recently recovered from viral meningitis. “She’s a crucial player for us and we’re happy she’s recovered. Hopefully, she’ll be back to her best soon,” Putellas said of Bonmatí. A minute’s silence was held before kickoff for Portugal and Liverpool striker Diogo Jota, who died in a car accident with his brother the previous night. Liverpool FC 'Devastated' by Diogo Jota's tragic death in car crash Earlier in Group B, Italy defeated Belgium 1-0. Spain will face Belgium next on Monday. Source: Agency   

Cristiano Ronaldo has expressed shock over the tragic death of his Portugal teammate Diogo Jota, sharing his reaction on social media. "It doesn't make sense," Ronaldo wrote. "Just now we were together in the national team, you had just got married." Diogo Jota, Liverpool and Portugal Forward, Dies in Devastating Car Crash in Spain Ronaldo extended his condolences to Jota's family, wife, and children, saying: "I know you will always be with them." "Rest in Peace, Diogo e André. We will miss you," he added. Source: BBC

Liverpool Football Club has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Portuguese forward Diogo Jota, who tragically passed away in a road traffic accident in Spain. In a statement released on Thursday, the club said, "Liverpool Football Club are devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota. "The club have been informed the 28-year-old has passed away following a road traffic accident in Spain along with his brother, Andre. Diogo Jota, Liverpool and Portugal Forward, Dies in Devastating Car Crash in Spain "Liverpool FC will be making no further comment at this time and request the privacy of Diogo and Andre’s family, friends, teammates and club staff is respected as they try to come to terms with an unimaginable loss. "We will continue to provide them with our full support." The club and football community are mourning the loss of Jota, who joined Liverpool in 2020 and played a key role in several of the team's recent successes. Fans worldwide have expressed shock and grief over the news.  #With inputs from BBC

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.