Embassy Football Fest kicks-off

Sports Reporter :

The sixth Embassy Football Fest began in Dhaka on Friday, bringing together diplomats and international officials as 35 teams from foreign missions and international organisations compete in a two-day tournament featuring 43 matches.
The tournament was inaugurated at the Armed Police Battalion field in Uttara by Dr Md Nazrul Islam, Secretary (East and West) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who noted a record turnout this year with 31 foreign missions and international organisations participating in the seven-a-side competition.
“I am pleased to see so many diplomats and participants gathered here today. I can see that the Honourable Ambassador of Italy himself will be playing, which truly reflects the spirit of this festival,” Islam said at the opening ceremony.
He said it is not just a tournament. “It is a message of peace, unity and mutual respect among all nations,” the secretary added.
The competition, sponsored by the Saudia Airlines, comprises 27 group-stage matches and 16 knockout fixtures, with defending champions Saudi Arabia returning to protect their title.
Deputy High Commissioner of British High Commission James Goldman expressed optimism that football would be “coming home” this weekend.
Additional Inspector General of Police Ali Hussain Fakir welcomed the diplomats, describing the event as a celebration of friendship among nations.