Deep Down, I Was Supporting Morocco: Shakib Al Hasan

Bangladesh cricket star Shakib Al Hasan revealed that he was quietly supporting Morocco despite attending Brazil's World Cup match wearing a Brazil jersey.

The veteran all-rounder watched the Brazil-Morocco Group C clash at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Saturday. The match ended in a 1-1 draw, with Morocco earning a valuable point against the five-time world champions.

Speaking to a Bangladeshi journalist after the match, Shakib said he enjoyed the contest and admitted that his sympathies were with Morocco.

“I liked the match. Deep down, I was supporting Morocco,” he said.

Although Shakib is known to be an Argentina supporter, he attended the game wearing a jersey signed by Brazilian superstar Neymar.

Asked about the jersey, Shakib explained that it had been gifted to him by Robin Miah, widely known among football fans as a close friend of Neymar.

“Robin Bhai gave me the jersey signed by Neymar. I wore it because he gave it to me; otherwise, I probably wouldn't have. But Morocco played really well,” Shakib said.

Robin Miah later shared photos with Shakib on his official Facebook page following the match.

When asked for a technical analysis of the game, Shakib laughed off the suggestion, saying he was there simply as a fan.

“I’m not an expert. I came to watch the game and enjoyed it,” he remarked.

Though football remains one of his interests, cricket has long been the centerpiece of Shakib's sporting career. The former Bangladesh captain, who has produced numerous records during his 17-year international career, has not represented Bangladesh for nearly two years.

Currently spending time in the United States, Shakib appears to be making the most of the World Cup atmosphere while enjoying football as a spectator.