Thousands of Argentina fans gathered at daybreak at University of Dhaka to watch Lionel Messi score a hat trick against Algeria, reflecting Bangladesh’s long-running devotion to a country most supporters have never visited.
Bangladesh is known for cricket, but football has deep national roots. During the 1971 independence war, Shadhin Bangla Football Dal, or Free Bengal Football Team, toured India to raise awareness and funds.
“Ever since I’ve understood the game of football in Bangladesh, I’ve supported Argentina, you understand,” said one fan.
Because Bangladesh has never qualified for World Cup, many fans adopted Argentina, especially after Diego Maradona’s 1986 performance against England. Sports commentator Rajib Hasan called the bond unusual, saying, “Still, the people of this country have made the country named Argentina their own.”
Younger fans now see Messi as Maradona’s successor.