France-Germany lift maiden title at Embassy Football Fest

 
The sixth edition of the Embassy Football Fest concluded in celebratory fashion at the APBN Field in Uttara, as the combined France-Germany team clinched their maiden title with a composed victory over debutants Japan in the final.

Japan, featuring in the tournament for the first time, impressed throughout the competition and finished runners-up, underlining the growing competitive depth of the diplomatic football fraternity in Bangladesh.

Hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Bangladesh and organised by GamePlay, the two-day tournament brought together teams from 24 embassies, alongside international organisations, fostering camaraderie, sportsmanship and cultural exchange through the universal language of football.

In the semifinals, the eventual champions overcame Palestine, while Japan booked their place in the final by defeating the World Bank team. Palestine secured the Third Place Trophy, Italy were honoured with the Fair Play Team award, and defending champions Saudi Arabia received the GamePlay Spirit of the Tournament Award.

Richard, a midfielder from the France-Germany side, was named Best Player of the Tournament and was rewarded with a complimentary Dhaka-Saudi Arabia-Dhaka return air ticket from title sponsor Saudia Airlines. Alex of the USA emerged as the top goalscorer with six goals, while the Best Goalkeeper award also went to a member of the champion team. Team Nordic received the Best Female Player award.

The closing ceremony was attended by senior officials, diplomats and sponsors.