In the presence of numerous football enthusiasts, the Golapganj Upazila Social Trust, in collaboration with its UK branch, orchestrated the fourth edition of the Golapganj Upazila Football Tournament 2023. This exciting event unfolded at the Mile End Stadium in East London on Sunday, September 24, drawing expatriate Gopalganj’s and Bangladeshis, creating a vibrant spectacle. In a gripping showdown, the West Amura Union clinched victory over the Wednesday Budhbaribazar to emerge as champions, with Abdul Basir officiating as the referee. Golapganj Sadar Union secured third place by defeating Bhadeswar Union, under the supervision of referee Mohammad Habibur Rahman.

Notably, the tournament attracted participants from various cities across Britain, with a total of 11 unions from Golapganj, alongside the municipality, actively engaging in the competition.

The tournament’s opening ceremony commenced at 11 a.m., inaugurated by Anwar Shahjahan, Chairman of the Golapganj Upazila Social Trust UK. The inaugural match featured Bhadeshwar Union against Laksheepasha Union.
Team management roles were shouldered by Mohammad Sultan Haydar Jasim and Nozrul Islam for Budhbaribazar Union, while Suhel Ahmed Chowdhury and Delwar Hossain took charge for Ranarsaup West Amura Union. Mohammad Sultan Ahmed and Mohammad Sirajul Islam managed the third-place team for Bhadeshwar Union.

Distinguished guests, including Taisir Mahmood, General Editor of London Bangla Press Club and Editor of Weekly Desh, lauded the tournament for its role in promoting sportsmanship, physical fitness, and cultural exchange, thereby fostering individuals’ development in various aspects.

Anwar Shahjahan chaired the event, alongside Tariq Rahman Sanu, Atiqur Rahman Shafar, and Rayhan Uddin, while Kabir Ahmed, the sports secretary, extended gratitude to all involved for the successful execution of the tournament.
During the award ceremony, former speakers of Tower Hamlets Council, Ahabab Hossain, Ataur Rahman Angur Mia, and others commended the event’s impact. Muhammad Zakaria, Vice-Chairman of the Golapganj Upazila Social Trust UK, led the ceremony, honoring sponsors with crests.

Budhbaribazar Union claimed the championship title, with Ranarsaup West Amura Union as runners-up and Bhadeshwar Union securing third place. Sahil Ahmed was awarded the Golden Boot, and Aminur Rahman earned recognition as the Best Goalkeeper of the final match. Medals were distributed to players, managers, and referees of all participating teams.

The Golapganj Upazila Football Tournament 2023 was made possible through the support of the Barclays Community Fund.