Bangladesh may be thousands of miles away from South America but the craze for the continent’s two biggest football nations- Brazil and Argentina- creates frenzy in the South Asian country.
The recent hullabaloo among the Bangladeshi fans ahead of the Copa America 2021 final between the sides even created global headlines as it seemed the madness in some places of the densely populated country exceeded even that in those countries themselves.
However, the craziness is not new and it has been perennial at least from the middle of the 80’s when Diego Maradona not only helped Argentina clinch a World Cup but won the hearts of millions of Bangladeshi.
And one of Maradonno’s predecessors, albeit after long 26 years, gave recognition to those fans following their first Copa America win in 28 years.
Former Argentina captain Juan Pablo Sorin did not forget to remember Bangladesh fans after the victory in the Copa of Argentina. The memory of 1995 floated in the eyes of this footballer who led Argentina to the 2006 World Cup. Argentina beat Brazil in the Youth World Cup final in Qatar to capture the title. That day, Sorin knew for the first time that it wasn’t just Argentina. In a small country 15,000 kilometers away, millions of people sat in support of Albiceleste, reported newsfounded.com.
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Sorin shared some videos of Bangladeshi supporters on Instagram and wrote, ‘Today I remember one night 26 years ago. I was playing against Brazil in 1995 in Qatar. At that time, the family could not be contacted if they wished. The Argentine flag fluttered in the gallery during the match against Brazil. I noticed from afar an inscription on the silver flag, Bangladesh. They jumped together, dancing and supporting us. In a moment of annoyance, that scene gave us a chance to breathe. ‘
‘Now I want to remember them, and dedicate this moment. On the other side of the world, Bangladesh, its supporters took to the streets after winning the Copa America, rejoicing. Thanks to Diego Maradona, thanks to Leo Messi and others who helped us win the ‘8 and’ 8 titles. Our country’s supporters spread all over the world. 26 years later, Argentina realized they deserved to be champions. We celebrated with them that day in Qatar, as Saturday (the day of the Copa America final) turned blue and white. ‘
