ARIF KHAN JOY

Deputy Minister for Youth and Sports, Arif Khan Joy, surprisingly took the role of a coach during the Dhaka Metropolis 3rd Division Football League match between Arambagh Football Academy and Dipali Jubo Sangha at the Kamalapur Stadium yesterday.

Joy, also the president of Dipali JS, arrived during the second half of the match,  which ended in a goalless draw.

It was encouraging to see that a minister took time off his busy schedule to attend a third division match, but in doing so, the former BFF vice-president and former national team captain apparently violated tournament regulations by entering the playing area. Only club officials with accreditation cards issued by the football federation or the league committee are eligible to stay at the dugout.

The incident did not go down well with Arambagh FA president Mominul Haque Sayeed, who alleged that the referee was influenced due to the presence of the minister. He also claimed that many decisions went against his side.

However, match commissioner Mojafar Hossain said that the minister just instructed his players in a calm way and there was no disorder due to his presence.

It has been learnt that the minister had earlier entered the playing area during a match of Dhaka Metropolis Football Tournament in 2017.

“If Arambagh lodge any complaints, we will look into the matter but I want to say that the minister is for all, not for a club. We believe he will inspire all clubs not just one club,” commented Dhaka Metropolis Football League Committee chairman Harunur Rashid.