Dhaka: Bangladesh national football team winger Jafar Iqbal emphasized that a footballer requires indomitable willpower, alongside hard work and dedication, to become successful in the sport. "Hard work alone is not enough. A footballer must spend sufficient time on the field and stay focused to achieve success," remarked Jafar, who originates from the hilly district of Bandarban, to BSS.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Jafar noted that Bangladesh football is progressing gradually, with the quality of local players improving significantly in recent years. "Our local players are now performing equally well alongside foreign players in the domestic league," he added. Jafar's journey in professional football began with Arambagh Krira Sangha in 2016, which soon led to his recruitment by Chittagong Abahani Limited. In the 2020-21 season, he joined Dhaka Mohammedan Sporting Club from Saif Sporting Club.
Life was not without challenges for the talented winger. Jafar disclosed that he did not receive much support from his family when he decided to pursue a career in football. His parents showed little interest in sports, and his father preferred that he take over the family's grocery business. "But I had no intention of joining the business. My dream was to become a footballer. I always followed the movements and practices of professional players to learn and improve," he shared.
During his formative years, Jafar lacked a coaching panel to guide him. "Whatever I learned came from playing with local footballers in Bandarban," he recalled. His football journey began with his first match in an Under-14 tournament at Rangamati Stadium, where he captained the Bandarban team to a runners-up finish. This milestone marked a turning point as he became the first player from Bandarban to join Dilkusha Club.
Jafar's career trajectory took a significant turn when Arambagh Krira Sangha expressed interest in recruiting him for the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). That season, Arambagh also finished runners-up in the Federation Cup, and Jafar's impressive performances in both tournaments earned him a call-up to the national football team.
Jafar made his Bangladesh U-18 debut against India during the 2017 SAFF U-18 Championship, playing a pivotal role in Bangladesh's 4-3 comeback victory after trailing 0-3 at halftime. He scored twice in that match and ultimately won the Golden Boot award, with five goals in four matches. Since his top-tier debut in 2016, Jafar has been considered one of the promising stars of Bangladesh football.
Reflecting on football in Bandarban, Jafar mentioned that it remains challenging for young players to pursue the sport in his hometown due to the lack of academies, adequate fields, and proper training facilities. "If these supports can be ensured, more talented players will surely emerge from Bandarban," Jafar concluded.