At 21, most footballers dream simply of breaking into the national team. For Mitul Marma, the reality has been far heavier—grief, scrutiny, and the enormous weight of expectation. Yet despite everything, Javier Cabrera has chosen him once again to stand guard between the posts in today’s crucial Asian Cup qualifier against India.
Mitul’s rise accelerated unexpectedly when senior keeper Anisur Rahman Zico was suspended. Suddenly promoted, the young Abahani Dhaka goalkeeper responded admirably in his early matches. But life changed dramatically on the eve of the Singapore clash in September. Mitul learnt that his elder brother had died—news that would break anyone’s spirit.
He still chose to play. But pain has its own way of showing itself. Two uncharacteristic errors gifted Singapore a pair of goals, and Bangladesh lost. After the match, Mitul posted a heartfelt apology to fans, explaining that he had tried to focus on serving the nation despite his sorrow. “It was a very difficult time,” he wrote. “Please forgive my mistakes.”
The burden didn’t lift immediately. Against Hong Kong, he looked nervous. Against Nepal, a late misjudgement turned a victory into a frustrating draw. Supporters, naturally concerned, began to ask whether he should continue as the first choice. Calls grew for Mehedi Hasan Shravon or Sujon Hossain to be given a chance.
But Cabrera sees something deeper. In yesterday’s press conference, the coach reaffirmed his confidence in the young man. Mitul has already played four qualifiers, conceding seven goals, and now has 18 international appearances. Cabrera appears committed to guiding him through his difficult phase rather than discarding him.
Tonight, when he steps onto the pitch under the floodlights, Mitul carries more than gloves and a jersey—he carries the trust of a coach, the sympathy of a nation, and the memory of his brother. For him, today is not just a match—it is a moment to heal, to prove, and perhaps to begin again.
