Bakkhali emerged victorious in Wednesday’s Youth Festival Beach Football Tournament held at Cox’s Bazar. Four teams, Inani, Himchari, Laboni, and Bakkhali, competed in a high-energy knockout format.

The final match between Laboni and Bakkhali concluded in a thrilling 2-2 draw. Bakkhali edged out their opponents in a tense penalty shootout to clinch the championship title, sparking celebrations among players and fans alike.

The Deputy Commissioner of Cox’s Bazar, Mohammad Salahuddin, inaugurated the tournament. At the opening ceremony, he remarked, “Cox’s Bazar beach is a remarkable gift of nature. Events like this not only boost our sports culture but also enhance the region’s appeal to tourists.”

The event, organized by the Bangladesh Football Federation in collaboration with the District Sports Association, demonstrated the growing interest in beach sports. The organizers announced plans to establish a permanent beach football venue in Cox’s Bazar and hope to host international tournaments shortly.

Such initiatives aim to attract sports enthusiasts while promoting Cox’s Bazar as a hub for tourism and recreational activities. Local authorities and sports organizations are optimistic about the potential for more large-scale events, reinforcing the beach town’s reputation as a prime destination for sports and leisure.

By Rajin Saleh

Photo: Rajin Saleh