Lalmonirhat: Ananta Das, a determined footballer from the Borabari Collegepara Football Academy in Lalmonirhat, is gearing up to participate in the prestigious “La Liga Youth Tournament 2025,” which is set to take place in Malaysia. Representing Bangladesh’s U-16 team, Ananta will play on behalf of Jafrani Sporting Club, showcasing his skills on an international platform.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the U-16 national team was meticulously formed by selecting talented players from the Under-16 level under the supervision of the ‘Hello Superstars’ program. Ananta, a resident of Acharya village in Chinai union under Rajahat upazila of Kurigram, is the youngest among his two siblings and a ninth-grade student at Panga Rani Lakshmi Priya School and College. His father, Santosh Das, is a fish trader.
In an interview with BSS, Ananta expressed his lifelong passion for football, stating, “I had deep interest in football since my childhood. Today, I got the opportunity to participate in the La Liga Youth Tournament. This is the first step towards fulfilling my dream.” He credited the Barabari Collegepara Football Academy for its significant contribution to his success and expressed gratitude towards the academy’s director and head coach, ABM Firoz Siddiqui Apel.
Despite financial hardships, Ananta’s mother, Archana Das, remained a constant source of support and inspiration. Ananta dreams of playing for the national team to fulfill his mother’s aspirations. His father, Santosh Das, expressed pride in his son’s achievements and urged the community to support Ananta’s journey, hoping that he brings honor to the country.
ABM Firoz Siddique Apel acknowledged Ananta’s talent and dedication, expressing confidence in his future prospects. Ananta’s selection followed a field-level trial at the BKSP athletics track, judged by esteemed figures like former national team captain Kaiser Hamid and former national booter Mamunul Islam.
The La Liga tournament, organized by Shambil Park, the official partner of La Liga, will be held from July 11 to 13 in Malaysia, with additional stages in the Philippines and Thailand. Alongside Ananta, three other players from the academy have also secured spots in the tournament, marking a significant milestone in their football careers.