Heroes’ welcome for SAFF U-20 champions in Dhaka

The amphitheatre at Hatirjheel in Dhaka turned into a night of emotion, celebration and pride as the SAFF Under-20 champions returned home after making history in Male.

Amid bright lights, roaring applause and flashing cameras, the spotlight belonged solely to the players. Following a reception at the airport and a celebratory open-top bus parade through the city, the event felt like the perfect culmination of their success.

Captain Mithu Chowdhury, taking the microphone on stage, spoke in his usual simple tone: "How is everyone? Are you all happy? There has been a lot of sweat and hard work behind this trophy, right? This is for you, only for you."

Head coach Mark Cox followed, his voice filled with pride. "These boys—each of them—have given their blood and sweat, they have given everything, put their lives on the line for Bangladesh," he said.

Despite being on just a one-month contract, Cox spoke of bigger ambitions ahead: "When we went there, we promised to show the spirit of 1971—your history—and we have done that. We will do it again. These boys will do it again—at the AFC Asian Cup and at the World Cup in Saudi Arabia in 2034."

Echoing that optimism, Tabith Awal, president of the Bangladesh Football Federation, said the triumph was only the beginning. "We do not see this trophy as the result of just one day's effort. Yesterday marked the start of a journey—one that Cox has spoken about. We hope it leads us to 2034."

The team remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, showing remarkable mental strength in every match. Their composure in the final against India—especially in the penalty shootout—remains fresh in memory.

Ronan Sullivan, whose strike sealed the title, reflected in English: "They kept asking us the same questions throughout the tournament—about Pakistan, Nepal, India, and what would happen if we didn't win. I guess we'll never find out!"

His twin brother Declan Sullivan praised the fans: "I can't speak Bangla, but I want to thank everyone for the incredible support online and in the Maldives. It's unmatched—Bangladesh football fans are the best in the world."

State Minister for Youth and Sports Aminul Haque expressed hope of building the future national team around this group, including players of Bangladeshi origin abroad. "We want to prove that we are all Bangladeshis, and Bangladesh comes first," he said.

Meanwhile, Naser Shahriar Zahedi, chairman of the BFF development committee, announced a bonus of Tk 100,000 for each player and Tk 50,000 for officials. The Dhaka North City Corporation will also provide Tk 50,000 to each player.