Ukhiya, Sept 6 (V7N) – Team Ukhiya capitalized on internal disputes and ego clashes within the Sadar Upazila squad to secure a 2-1 victory at the Bir Shreshtho Ruhul Amin Stadium on Friday afternoon, advancing to the semifinals of the local football tournament.
 
From the outset, Ukhiya displayed strong confidence. At 3:45 pm, as the referee’s whistle signaled kickoff, players in yellow jerseys spread across the field. Both teams featured foreign players, yet Sadar, traditionally known as a disciplined fourth-team contender, attempted to mount organized attacks. However, Ukhiya’s vigilant defense repeatedly thwarted their efforts.
 
In the 20th minute, Ukhiya took the lead, sending the crowd into jubilation. Foreign player Daniel made a subtle pass to teammate Anas near the penalty box, and Anas directed the ball into the goal, giving Ukhiya a 1-0 advantage. Sadar’s players responded with several scoring attempts in the first half, but none found the net.
 
The second half saw Ukhiya intensify their attacks, creating pressure and unsettling Sadar’s defense. Ukhiya striker Sarwar Kamal Seru scored the tournament’s standout goal in the 52nd minute, deceiving the goalkeeper with a precise and eye-catching strike from the edge of the penalty area, extending Ukhiya’s lead to 2-0. Sadar’s Duge briefly reduced the deficit with a headed goal in the 65th minute, making it 2-1, but Sadar could not recover, and Ukhiya celebrated their semifinal qualification at the final whistle.
 
Frustrated Sadar supporters criticized the team’s defeat, citing that key players had abstained from the match due to internal disagreements and ego issues. Team management stated that numerous attempts had been made to persuade the absent players to participate, but they refused. Supporters emphasized that the team’s collective success must always take precedence over individual ego.
 
Seru of Ukhiya was named Man of the Match. The trophy was awarded by the tournament implementation committee chairperson, Additional District Commissioner Imran Hossain Sajib. Also present were Ukhiya Upazila Executive Officer Md. Kamrul Hasan Chowdhury, tournament secretary and District Sports Officer Md. Alauddin, ad-hoc committee member of the district sports association Sarwar Roman, and former joint secretary Harun-ur-Rashid.
 
The first semifinal on Saturday, Sept 6, will see Ramu Upazila face defending champions Maheshkhali.
 
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