'A proud moment': Yunus lauds Bangladesh squad after historic win over India

Sheikh Morsalin’s early strike ended Bangladesh's 22-year wait for a win against their neighbours in the AFC Asian Cup qualifiers

Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus has congratulated the Bangladesh national football team after their 1-0 victory over India in the AFC Asian Cup qualifiers -- the country’s first competitive win against their regional rivals in 22 years.

The match, played on Tuesday in front of a packed crowd at Dhaka’s National Stadium, saw Sheikh Morsalin score the decisive goal in the 12th minute. India had not lost to Bangladesh since 2003.

“This victory has made every Bangladeshi proud,” Yunus said in his congratulatory message released by the Chief Advisor's Office on Wednesday.

“It is not just a win in a football match -- it is an inspiration for the millions of young men and women who see sport as a source of positive energy. Such a win against a strong opponent like India is a significant step forward.”

Yunus hoped the result would help Bangladesh revive its past footballing glory.

He added that the interim government, in office since 2024, had extended full support to football, and he hoped future governments would continue to do so.