Dhaka: Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today expressed condolences at the death of Zakaria Pintoo, captain of Swadhin Bangla Football Dal. In a message, the Chief Adviser said he was shocked and saddened to learn that Zakaria Pintoo, a freedom fighter and the captain of historic Swadhin Bangla Football Dal, died on Monday morning. According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, as the leader of that legendary team, Zakaria Pintoo toured India to raise money and crucial support for the wartime government in exile. When he was not playing, he would be cheering up for the freedom fighters and emerged as a face of the liberation struggle. After the war of independence, Zakaria Pintoo became the first national team captain. He was a legendary central back and a true defender of the Green and Red national colours. When he ended his two-decade-long playing career, he played a crucial role in organising sports. He was an out-and-out sportsman till his death. Prof Yunus added, "I pray for the departed soul. My co ndolences to his bereaved family and the sports fraternity-to whom Zakaria Pintoo was a true legend."
