Members of Bangladesh’s Under-15 national football team have received official receptions and substantial cash rewards upon returning home from competing in the FIFA Under-15 World Cup held in Baku, Azerbaijan. The youth squad achieved a runner-up finish in the fifth tier of the global tournament organised by football’s world governing body.
Spain claimed the overall world championship in the tournament, which featured 187 participating nations. Bangladesh finished 130th overall in the global standings. Following their arrival in Dhaka from Baku, the young footballers were escorted to the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) headquarters, where an official reception ceremony was hosted in their honour.
During the event, State Minister for Youth and Sports Aminul Haq announced a financial reward of 100,000 BDT for each player on behalf of the ministry. In addition, BFF Vice-President Nasser Shahrear Zaheedi awarded 50,000 BDT individually to every player, coach, and member of the supporting staff. Zaheedi had previously announced a 1,000,000 BDT team bonus following their final against the Central African Republic.
Despite competing in the fifth tier, several Bangladeshi players delivered impressive individual displays throughout the international campaign. Goalkeeper Srinath Haldar caught particular attention by producing remarkable saves during two separate penalty shootouts. His performances, alongside those of several teammates, drew interest from talent scouts representing foreign clubs.
Addressing recurring concerns regarding age-group talent fading in Bangladesh sports, the sports minister assured that the government would support long-term development programmes. He noted that regardless of final standings, the players possess immense potential and require continuous encouragement to transition into senior footballers.
BFF President Tabith Awal highlighted that the team’s showing in Baku reflected a structured grass-roots development initiative. He explained that a nationwide Under-15 tournament spanning nearly a year preceded intensive training camps to select and prepare the final squad. Tabith affirmed that the federation would maintain continuous training regimens to build upon this international experience.
