As the FIFA World Cup continues to fuel football fever across Bangladesh, the rivalry between Argentina and Brazil found a lively expression off the television screen and onto the pitch on Saturday, when staff members of sister publications Dhaka Tribune and Bangla Tribune squared off in a friendly football match in the capital.
Reflecting the country’s enduring divide between supporters of the two South American football giants, employees of the two media houses split into Argentina and Brazil camps before taking to the field at the Go Seven Turf in Mohammadpur’s Forty Feet area.
When the final whistle blew, it was Argentina that claimed local bragging rights with a convincing 3-0 victory over Brazil.
Shaikh Shahrukh opened the scoring before Zakir Hossain and Amirul Islam Masum added two more goals to seal a comfortable win for the Albiceleste supporters in an entertaining contest played in the spirit of friendship and sportsmanship.
The match, held amid the excitement surrounding the ongoing FIFA World Cup, brought together journalists, editors and staff members from both newsrooms, offering a welcome break from their daily routines while celebrating football’s unique ability to unite people beyond the workplace.
Dhaka Tribune Editor Reaz Ahmad and Bangla Tribune Executive Editor Udisa Islam attended the event and cheered on the players from the sidelines.
Bangla Tribune and Dhaka Tribune Business Lead Rakibul Haque, along with senior officials of Gemcon Group, were also present.
While Argentina lifted the honours on the day, the real winner was the camaraderie shared by colleagues, as the friendly encounter showcased how the passion generated by the World Cup continues to inspire football celebrations far beyond the stadiums hosting the tournament.
