Sadar Upazila’s football team suffered a crushing defeat, undone by internal rifts and egos, while Ukhiya Upazila capitalized on the opportunity to storm into the semi-finals.
On Friday (September 5), at the Birshreshtha Ruhul Amin Stadium, Ukhiya outplayed Sadar 2–1 in a dominant performance.
Brimming with confidence, Ukhiya—clad in yellow jerseys—took control from the opening whistle. Both sides featured foreign recruits, but Sadar, known as the tournament’s fourth powerhouse, struggled to mount effective attacks.
Ukhiya’s strong defense effectively repelled their attacks. In the 20th minute, Daniel set up fellow foreigner Anas, who slotted home a clinical strike to give Ukhiya a 1–0 lead, sending their supporters into wild celebration.
Ukhiya continued to press in the second half, and their striker, Sarwar Kamal Seru, produced what many called the tournament’s best goal.
His thunderous long-range effort in the 52nd minute doubled the advantage to 2–0. In the 65th minute, Duge’s header gave Sadar a chance to retaliate, but it was too late.
The final whistle sparked jubilation among Ukhiya’s fans as their team secured a semi-final berth.
Sadar supporters expressed frustration, blaming the absence of key players who sat out due to disputes and bruised egos.
“No ego should be bigger than the team,” lamented one fan.
Team officials, however, claimed they had tried hard to bring the players back, but to no avail.
Seru’s stellar performance earned him the Man of the Match award, which was presented by Additional Deputy Commissioner and tournament organizing committee convener Imran Hossain Sajib.
Ukhiya Upazila Nirbahi Officer, Md. Kamrul Hasan Chowdhury and other officials were also present.
On Saturday (September 6), defending champions Maheshkhali will face Ramu in the first semi-final.
By Abdu Rashid Manik
Photo: Abdu Rashid Manik
