World Cup mania hits Bangladesh
Many of us do not know that renowned film director-actor-producer Sohel Rana used to be a footballer when he was a student at Dhaka University. The Brazil supporter watches most of the World Cup matches. Rana said, "Though five/six teams are major contenders for the trophy, I expect Brazil to win the Cup. Brazil has an outstanding team, including strikers like Kaka, Adriano, Ronaldo and Ronaldinho."
On his World Cup preparation Rana said, "I'll watch all the matches of Brazil. However, I think matches of other giants will be enjoyable as well. I'll invite my friends over to watch the matches and share the excitement."
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. Humayun Faridee
Renowned actor Humayun Faridee is a die-hard Argentina supporter. He said, "Argentina has quality players like Lionel Messi, Hernan Crespo and others, but I think Brazil, England, Portugal and host Germany are major contenders for the Cup."
On the impact of World Cup '06 on Bangladesh, Faridee said, "The World Cup brings festivity to Bangladesh. The frenzied fans are busy discussing the tournament and -- for a while -- prefer watching the football matches rather than other programmes on TV.
Interestingly I've observed that even the incidence of 'crime' declines during the World Cup, as everyone remains immersed in the sport."
As in previous years, Faridee has plans to watch most of the matches of the World Cup. And he places his bets on striker Kiri Ronaldo.
Keramat Moula
Keramat Moula, a recognised figure in Bangladeshi theatre (vice president of Bangladesh Group Theatre Federation) is also a football organiser. He is the vice president of the first division football team Wari Club. An ardent Brazilian fan, Moula said, "I enjoy artistic football displayed by the Brazilian team. I think the current Brazilian squad is the best in the world and logically this team should win the World Cup '06. The team has a wonderful forward, which can break any defense. I admit, Brazilian defense is comparatively weak. But, Adriano, Kaka, Ronaldo and Ronaldinho should overcome the limitations."
Moula adds, "World Cup is held once every four years and so I have plans to watch most of the games with friends at my house."
Riaz
Asked about the upcoming FIFA World Cup '06, the popular filmstar Riaz said, "I regard football as a symbol of world peace. With Bangladesh gearing up for the World Cup matches, I am giving in to the football mania as well. I am touched by the global festivity that goes with the match. In truth, it is a visual treat for me. Due to late night games, I will watch the matches at my home.
"Brazil is my favourite team as they have an impressive style, elegance and commitment. I hope my favourite team will ignite a fierce competition."
Shahiduzzaman Selim
A die-hard fan of Brazilian soccer team, popular director and actor Selim said, "The World Cup has held me in thrall since 1982. Actually, all the matches are at night, from 10:00 pm to 3:45am. So, I have to charge up to stay awake the whole night. I believe my favourite team will display enormous levels of skills by the newcomers in every match. I want to see the World Cup full of classic encounters and jaw-dropping goals. Also love to watch the heroes of world football like Ronaldo or Ronaldinho weave their magic. When the matches start, I want to hoist flags and wear my jersey to show my support for the Brazilian team. Overall it should be a nice World Cup with lots of upsets. The Brazilian team truly deserves to be champion! Because the team can show what determination, talent and faith can achieve."
Shamim Ara Nipa
"I'm all charged up about the upcoming FIFA World Cup '06. I don't who is going to score the highest number of goals because it's such an unpredictable game. But I am hoping that Argentina wins the World Cup'06. Posters and sketches of football stars and flags of different countries are on display near the roadside which really makes me feel the spirit of soccer extravaganza," says the popular dancer Nipa.