Photo : BSS

NETROKONA, Sept 4, 2026 (BSS) - The District Commissioner (DC) Gold Cup Football Tournament 2026 began today at the historic Moktarpara ground in Netrokona, drawing thousands of enthusiastic spectators.

Organized by the Netrokona district administration with the cooperation of the District Sports Association, the tournament opened with Durgapur Upazila Football XI defeating Mohanganj Upazila Football XI 1-0.

The opening ceremony began at 3pm with the release of balloons and pigeons following a brief discussion session. Cultural performers from the Durgapur Birisiri Ethnic Cultural Academy and local artists also entertained the audience.

Speaking as the chief guest, Netrokona-2 (Sadar-Barhatta) MP and District BNP President Prof Dr Md Anwarul Haq said sports can help protect young people from drugs and other harmful activities.

He urged youths to consider sports as a profession rather than merely a form of recreation. 

He also highlighted plans to strengthen sports training at schools and identify talented players from an early age.

Presiding over the event, Netrokona DC Khondoker Moshfique-Ur-Rahman said football is deeply rooted in the country's culture and that sports are essential for building a healthy generation. 

He said initiatives are being taken to develop the sports sector and identify talent at the grassroots level.

District Council Administrator Advocate Md Nuruzzaman (Nuru) attended as a special guest, while Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Md Wahiduzzaman delivered the welcome address.

The opening match was closely contested, with neither side scoring in the first half. Durgapur's striker Md Akikul Islam, wearing jersey No. 14, broke the deadlock in the 75th minute with a spectacular shot.

Durgapur successfully defended the lead until the final whistle, securing a 1-0 victory. Akikul Islam was named Player of the Match.

Netrokona Pourashava Administrator and Additional Deputy Commissioner (Education and ICT) Mun Mun Jahan Liza, Additional Superintendent of Police (Special Branch) Hafizul Islam, District Sports Officer Setu Akhtar, District Sports Association Member Secretary Md Hedayet Ullah Rumin, former MP and former District BNP President Freedom Fighter Ashraf Uddin Khan and other officials and political leaders were also present.