Reaching the finals of the Federation Cup and the Independence Cup and winning the latter one already gave a sign as to why big-spending Bashundhara Kings are being reckoned as one of the top favourite in the upcoming Bangladesh Premier League in their debut season.
The club gave a 10-day vacation to all their members after winning the Independence Cup title Wednesday, ahead of the top-flight league, scheduled for next month.
All the foreign recruits including World Cupper Daniel Colindres and Spanish coach Oscar Bruzon flew to their respective destinations Wednesday night to enjoy their vacations, while the local booters also left Dhaka for their hometowns.
Independence Cup hero Anisur Rahman Zico went to his hometown in Cox’s Bazar’s Chakoria, along with national team trio Towhidul Alam Sabuj, Sushanta Tripura and Mohammad Ibrahim.
Another top performer, midfielder Masuk Mia Jony went to Sreemongal, along with Motin Mia.
Zico’s tremendous contribution to the side helped him achieve the best player of the tournament award as he produced heroic displays between the sticks during the crucial quarter-final and semi-final ties, producing five brilliant saves in the tie-breaker.
Zico couldn’t make regular appearances in the best XI during his time at Chittagong Abahani Limited as the other national goalkeeper Ashraful Islam Rana was the first choice.
He started making regular starting appearances at Saif Sporting Club last season, but termed 2018 his career’s best year where he was called up to the senior national team for the first time, but started only on the bench so far.
“I became the tournament’s best player despite there being many stars and foreign players. I think this is the best year of my career,” said Zico.
He added, “Everyone tried to give their best and wanted to win the title. I always tried to prove my worth whenever I got the chance. Now I want to carry on my fine form in the league as well.”
Jony also termed this year one of his best for his consistent performances in the U-23 and national team.
He said, “There are more foreign players this season, but we, the local footballers, also performed well and proved we are not behind them.”
“The club formed one of the best teams with good ambition. We will definitely play to win the title in the premier league.”
