The Army Region Cup Football Competition '25 has started in Bandarban. Zone Commander Lieutenant Colonel ASM Mahmumudul Hasan inaugurated the football competition as the chief guest at the Bandarban Stadium on Tuesday afternoon.
The tournament was presided over by the President of the Tournament Management Committee Major MM Yasin Aziz, while Additional Deputy Commissioner SM Manjurul Haque, Upazila Nirbahi Officer Marufa Sultana Khan Hiramoni, Additional Superintendent of Police Abdul Karim, President of Bandarban District Football Association Javed Reza, senior administration officials and journalists were present.
Chief guest at the event, Lt. Col. ASM Mahmudul Hasan said, "The army has been leading this great process of finding talented players from the remote areas of the hilly towns of Bandarban and turning them into national-level quality players for a long time. The army is not only a peace and security keeper; rather, it is working relentlessly in education, health, development and sports development. Such tournaments will one day provide a place for the youth of Bandarban in the country's national football team. He further said, "Sports are a symbol of discipline, unity and harmony in society. It keeps the young generation away from drugs and anti-social activities and develops a healthy mindset. Sports not only increase physical fitness; but also create leadership, tolerance and team spirit, which are essential for nation building." Such activities will continue in the future, said the army official.
The opening match was played between Sangu Voice Club and Old Char-i Para XI. Although the game was tense at the beginning, Old Char-i Para XI took a 1-0 lead in the first half. 10 teams from Bandarban Sadar Upazila participated in the tournament.
Meanwhile, hundreds of spectators from different areas of Asabash gathered at the stadium to watch the game and they cheered. The organizers believe that this tournament, which will last for several days, will be an example of social bonding, harmony and unity of the hill township, as well as the excellence of sports.
