ABG University Cup puts spotlight on emerging football talent: Tabith Awal

Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) President Tabith Awal has hailed the ABG University Cup as a much-needed initiative for the country’s football, saying the tournament has showcased the potential of university players and the growing appetite for campus football.

Speaking to Daily Sun after Tuesday’s final at Kings Arena, ABG Sports City, Tabith thanked ABG Sports City and Anvir Bashundhara Group (ABG) for bringing the competition to life, describing the atmosphere as proof of the importance of inter-university football.

“An inter-university competition was exactly what Bangladesh needed, and today’s atmosphere proves that. There are talented university-level players, including some well-known footballers, and spectators are eager to see their teams on the pitch. I am extremely proud to be associated with such an initiative,” he said.

Asked whether the federation had identified promising players during the competition, Tabith said the national team coach would ultimately decide whom to scout, while stressing the importance of young footballers gaining experience in professional clubs.

“We believe every player is talented, but ultimately, we leave it to the national team coach to decide where to scout and whom to bring into the national set-up. National team selection is made from among professional footballers who compete throughout the year,” he told Daily Sun.

“We would like to see the raw talents emerging from these competitions join different clubs. If they take that step and prove themselves, they can certainly earn opportunities with the national team. That is what we hope for.”

Tabith also praised the supporters who turned up for the final, highlighting the commitment of students who travelled to cheer for their university teams.

“I have heard that the crowd throughout the tournament was very encouraging. A final naturally creates a special attraction, and the turnout today was also impressive. It is particularly commendable that students have travelled to support their teams, with one university coming all the way from Dhanmondi,” he added.

Daffodil International University (DIU) defeated American International University-Bangladesh (AIUB) 3-0 in Tuesday’s final to lift the maiden ABG University Cup football title.