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Published on February 8, 2015
"None could think that Bangladesh would reach the final of the tournament. Bangladesh played excellent football in the final and scored two goals," she said during the trophy distribution after the final of the Bangabandhu Gold Cup Tournament at Bangabandhu National Stadium (BNS).
The Prime Minister said: "From now on the tournament will be arranged every year and we hope that Bangladesh would clinch the trophy. We will be waiting for the day."
She also urged the players of Bangladesh team to take preparations in such a way.
Sheikh Hasina said it is a matter of hope that football has got a new lease of life through the Bangabandhu Gold Cup. "I hope that Bangladesh's football would spread everywhere and it would conquer the world," she said.
Congratulating Bangladesh team on their excellent performance in the final, she mentioned that there is a defeat and victory in every game. "Bangladesh is advancing and would advance further," she said
She also greeted the Malaysian team on becoming champions in the tournament, saying that: "Our friendly country has clinched the trophy."
The Prime Minister thanked the organizers, law enforcers and spectators for smoothly holding the tournament.
Later, she handed over champions trophy and runners up trophy to the Malaysian team and Bangladesh team respectively.
Sheikh Hasina also distributed personal medals to the players, coaches and other staff of both the teams as well as referees and linesmen.
Convenor of the organizing committee of the tournament Finance Minister AMA Muhith, Commerce Minister Tofail Ahmed, PM's son and ICT Advisor Sajib Wazed Joy, Deputy Minister for Youth and Sports Arif Khan Joy, Bangladesh Football Federation President Kazi Salahuddin and other BFF officials were present on the occasion.
Earlier, the Prime Minister witnessed the second half of the final match from the VVIP Gallery of the BNS and encouraged the Bangladesh players by clapping. Wearing a red and green saree, she entered the stadium at 6.26 pm and 65 minutes into the final match.
Malaysia clinched the Bangabandhu Gold Cup beating Bangladesh 3-2 in the keenly contested final at the BNS this evening.
Photo: Saiful Islam Kallol
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