The Kool-BSJA Media Cup Football Tournament returned in style on Sunday, with 32 media houses taking part in the latest edition of the popular competition at the artificial turf adjacent to the BFF House in Motijheel.
Reigning champions Daily Jugantor began their title defence on a winning note, joining Ekhon TV, Deepto TV, Bangla Vision, Kaler Kantho, The Daily Star, Cricfrenzy and NTV as the eight teams to secure victories on the opening day.
State Minister for Youth and Sports Md Aminul Haque formally inaugurated the tournament as the chief guest. Among others present were BFF vice-president Wahiduddin Chowdhury Happy, Bangladesh Sports Journalists Association (BSJA) president Arifur Rahman Babu, general secretary SM Sumon, and tournament committee convener Raihan Al Mughni. Representatives from sponsor Square Toiletries Limited, including Head of Media and Research Ferdousul Islam and Senior Brand Manager Adib Bin Shahid, also attended the progamme.
In his speech, Aminul Haque highlighted the shared role of sports organisers and journalists in developing the country's sporting landscape, expressing hope for continued collaboration in the future.
On the field, Ekhon TV delivered the most dominant performance of the day, thrashing ATN News 5-0. Rakib Ahmed starred with a brace and an assist to earn the man-of-the-match award, while Abul Kalam, Abdul Kader Leon and Rezaul Karim also found the net.
Deepto TV edged past Daily Samakal 1-0, courtesy of a decisive strike from Imam Hossain Rahat, who was named man of the match. Bangla Vision secured a comfortable 3-0 victory over The Daily Observer, with Enamul Habib Rubel scoring twice to claim the individual honour.
Kaler Kantho advanced after a 1-1 draw against Independent Television, winning 3-1 in the tie-breaker, where Towkir was adjudged man of the match.
Daily Jugantor progressed following a tense goalless draw with Boishakhi Television, eventually winning 4-3 in the shootout, thanks largely to goalkeeper Rifat's heroics.
The Daily Star also needed penalties to overcome News24, sealing a 4-2 win after a stalemate in regulation time. Orchid Chakma earned the man-of-the-match accolade.
Cricfrenzy booked their place in the next round with a 4-3 shootout win over Naya Diganta after another goalless contest, with Likhon Sarkar shining.
In the day's final match, NTV clinched a narrow 1-0 victory over Machhranga Television, as Fahad Mohammad struck a late winner to secure both the result and the man-of-the-match award.
The eight winning teams from the opening day advanced to the second round. The remaining first-round matches are scheduled to take place on Monday at the same venue.
