Glimmers of Greatness: Mohammad Ashraful’s Masterclass and the Eternal Struggle of Bangladeshi Cricket

Next week, Chattogram will again become the battleground for Bangladesh and Sri Lanka as the two nations lock horns in the ICC World Test Championship. The anticipation is heavy, rooted in history and tinged with memories of battles past. Since their first meeting in the 2001 Asian Test Championship, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh have shared a rivalry marked not by parity but by persistence — Bangladesh, still finding their feet in Test cricket, and Sri Lanka, a well-established force at the time. The story of these matches is often one of valiant attempts punctuated by occasional brilliance.  

And among those moments of brilliance, Mohammad Ashraful’s iconic 136 against Sri Lanka at Chattogram in 2006 stands tall—a spellbinding performance that epitomized both the promise and frustration of Bangladeshi cricket. 

The Bogra Beginning and MA Aziz’s Legacy

When the Lankans toured Bangladesh in 2006 for a bilateral series, the Tigers hoped to build on recent improvements under coach Dav Whatmore. Despite a morale-boosting ODI victory at Bogra—their first against Sri Lanka—the real challenge was always going to be the longer format.  

The second Test at Chattogram brought both nations to the historic MA Aziz Stadium, a venue not just beloved for cricket but symbolic of the city’s role in Bangladesh’s struggle for independence in 1971. In earlier decades, this very ground welcomed legends like India’s Vinoo Mankad and England’s MCC under Donald Carr. It was also where Bangladesh clinched their first-ever Test victory in 2005, after 34 painful attempts—a venue where history whispers from the stands.

But as the two teams clashed in 2006, history didn’t seem to favor the hosts. After a comprehensive loss in the first Test at Bogra, expectations from the home crowd were tempered. Yet, this was cricket—fickle, full of surprises, where individual genius can change the course of a match, if only for a fleeting moment.

Ashraful’s Arrival: A Symphony of Strokes

Bangladesh’s innings began on a cautious note. Habibul Bashar, the skipper, elected to bat first, aware that the early morning breeze off the Bay of Bengal would offer assistance to seamers. And seamers Lasith Malinga and Farveez Maharoof did not disappoint. Malinga, with his trademark slinging action, struck in the opening exchanges to dismiss Javed Omar.  

Opener Nafees Iqbal and Captain Bashar then forged a steady partnership, weathering the storm for a while. But as so often with Bangladesh, their solidity was fleeting. Wickets began to tumble. And then, the young Mohammad Ashraful strode to the crease.  

From the moment Ashraful took his stance, something felt different. On his second delivery, he leaned into a cover drive off Malinga Bandara—a stroke so elegantly timed that even the fielders paused to admire it. As his innings unfolded, it became clear that Ashraful wasn’t just batting; he was composing a masterpiece. His first boundary—a stylish late cut to third man—set the tone for a knock that was equal parts artistry and audacity.  

Facing the wily Muttiah Muralitharan at the other end, Ashraful displayed a poise that belied his years. He navigated the maestro’s off-breaks with nimble footwork, choosing discretion over recklessness—at least initially. When Murali tossed one up temptingly, Ashraful resisted the urge to slog, instead stroking a delicate glance to the fine-leg boundary. It was an innings defined by balance—between caution and aggression, between elegance and power.  

The Turning of the Tide: A Solo Act Amidst Collapse

As wickets crumbled at the other end, Ashraful shifted gears. He knew that waiting for partners to build meaningful stands was a futile hope. So, he transformed the innings into a counterattack. His reverse sweeps off Murali were not just effective but cheekily defiant, while his six off Bandara symbolized a fearless batsman at the peak of his powers. Against Dilhara Fernando, he stood tall, sending a delivery over backward point for six—an exhibition of confidence that few Bangladeshi batters of the era possessed.  

With each stroke, Ashraful gave Bangladesh hope, even if only briefly. His bat was not just a weapon; it was a wand, casting spells that charmed the crowd and momentarily paralyzed the Sri Lankan attack. For 184 deliveries, he carried his side on his slender shoulders, scoring 136 runs laced with 15 boundaries and 3 sixes. And yet, like all good things in Bangladeshi cricket, it didn’t last.  

Attempting a slog-sweep off Murali, Ashraful mistimed the shot, holing out to Dilhara Fernando at deep midwicket. It was the kind of dismissal that defined him—brilliant, bold, but tragically impatient. Once again, his inability to temper talent with discipline had cost him and his team.  

The Tale of Two Ashrafuls: Genius and Flaws in Equal Measure

Ashraful’s innings was a microcosm of Bangladesh’s cricketing journey—bursting with promise, dazzling in moments, but undone by inconsistency. The sheer beauty of his stroke play raised expectations, yet his dismissal embodied the frustration that has haunted Bangladesh cricket. He was not just a player; he was a symbol of what the nation’s cricket could be—if only brilliance could be sustained.  

His failure to replicate the magic in the second innings, dismissed cheaply for 1, was a sobering reminder that cricket is as much about consistency as it is about moments of genius. Bangladesh eventually folded for 181, setting Sri Lanka a modest target, which they chased down with ease. The visitors left victorious, but Ashraful’s innings lingered in the memory—a bittersweet performance that hinted at a future never fully realized.

Legacy of the Knock: Hope Amid Defeat 

Despite the loss, there was a silver lining. Ashraful’s innings was a beacon for a young team trying to find its identity in the Test arena. For a brief moment, he bridged the gap between what Bangladesh was and what it aspired to be—a competitive Test side that could stand toe-to-toe with the best.  

The performance at Chattogram gave the fans a reason to dream, even if the dream was fragile. It showcased what was possible when individual brilliance aligned with opportunity. The tragedy of Mohammad Ashraful’s career is not that he lacked talent, but that the brilliance he exhibited was often fleeting—flashes of light in a sky that too often remained overcast.

Epilogue: The Eternal Quest for Stability

As Bangladesh and Sri Lanka prepare to meet again at Chattogram next week, the echoes of that 2006 Test resonate. The stadium, rich in history, will once more witness a contest where the stakes are high. The fans will hope for a repeat of Ashraful’s brilliance—only this time, tempered by the maturity that comes with experience.  

For Bangladeshi cricket, the journey continues. And with every boundary, every dismissal, and every cheer from the stands, the ghosts of past glories and disappointments will dance in the background—reminding players and fans alike that in cricket, as in life, brilliance must be matched by resolve.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Resurrection at the Bernabéu: Real Madrid’s Night of Miracles

The night began with an air of inevitability. Real Madrid were destined to bow out of the Champions League, vanquished once more by an English club. The spectators at the Bernabéu braced for the end, while billions of viewers around the world watched as Manchester City prepared to punch their ticket to Paris. The narrative was set: City would finally claim their place in the pantheon of European champions. 

But Real Madrid had other plans. 

This was not a comeback; it was a resurrection. A night when the unthinkable became reality when football’s most storied club reminded the world that they do not play by the same rules as others. 

When the hearts of Madridistas faltered, their team delivered a shock that could revive the lifeless. The Bernabéu, silenced moments earlier, erupted into chaos. Real Madrid won. 

And with that, Pep Guardiola and Manchester City suffered yet another heartbreak, a defeat as devastating in its manner as in its consequence. 

The Anatomy of a Miracle

Manchester City were in control. For 89 minutes, they had been the better team, dictating play with their trademark precision. Jack Grealish, a late substitute, had two golden chances to seal the tie. The first was cleared off the line, the second diverted by the faintest of touches from Thibaut Courtois. City had silenced the Bernabéu. The game was as good as won. 

And then it wasn’t. 

Real Madrid’s response was not just football—it was an act of defiance, a demonstration of the club’s unyielding spirit. The architect of this miracle was Rodrygo, a substitute who transformed despair into euphoria. 

His first goal, in the 90th minute, seemed like a consolation—a gesture to salvage pride. But a minute later, he struck again, turning the tie on its head. Karim Benzema, quiet for much of the night, delivered a deft volleyed cross for the first goal, his outstretched foot beating Ederson. For the second, Marco Asensio’s flick met Dani Carvajal’s cross, and Rodrygo rose above a stunned City defence to head the ball home. 

In 60 seconds, Real Madrid had shattered City’s composure and rewritten the script. 

Extra Time: The Final Blow

As the game entered extra time, City were in disarray. The composure and control that had defined their performance evaporated, replaced by confusion and desperation. 

Barely three minutes into the additional period, Ruben Dias lunged clumsily at Benzema inside the box. The Italian referee, Daniele Orsato, pointed to the spot without hesitation. The Bernabéu held its breath. 

Benzema, the talisman of this extraordinary campaign, stepped up. No Panenka this time. No theatrics. Just a low, clinical strike to Ederson’s left. The net rippled, and the Bernabéu exploded. 

City were finished. Their spirit, so vibrant minutes earlier, was extinguished. Real Madrid, on the other hand, had ascended to their familiar place as the gods of the Champions League. 

A Night for the Ages

This was more than a victory. It was a statement, a reminder that Real Madrid’s relationship with the Champions League is unlike any other. Where others falter, they thrive. Where hope dies, they find life. 

City, for all their brilliance, were undone by Madrid’s indomitable will. Guardiola’s men controlled the game but lost the moment. The ghosts of past failures—Monaco, Liverpool, Tottenham, Lyon—hovered over them once more. 

For Madrid, this was a triumph of belief, orchestrated by Carlo Ancelotti’s steady hand and executed by a team that refuses to surrender. Rodrygo’s brilliance, Benzema’s composure, Courtois’s resilience—they all combined to create a masterpiece of football drama. 

As the final whistle blew, the Bernabéu stood as one, celebrating a night that will be etched in history. Real Madrid had risen from the ashes, their never-say-die attitude turning despair into glory. 

Paris awaits, but for now, this night belongs to Madrid. The night they resurrected themselves, the night they reminded the world why they are the kings of Europe. 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

The Edge of Chaos: A Night of Frenzy at the Etihad

Some nights in football transcend mere sport, lingering in the memory like vivid dreams that refuse to fade. They rob you of sleep and, perhaps, a few years of your life, such is their intensity. The clash at the Etihad between Manchester City and Real Madrid was one such night—a seven-goal spectacle that left the world breathless and yearning for more. 

This season, Real Madrid seem to have embraced chaos as their muse, thriving in games where the weather turns heavy and the stakes soar sky-high. Against Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City—a side renowned for their tactical precision and attacking brilliance—Madrid’s resilience and flair turned a high-octane encounter into an unforgettable chapter of Champions League history. 

The Eternal Tug of War

Manchester City came into this fixture with a point to prove, having outclassed Madrid in the 2019-20 campaign. Yet, to conquer this marvellous City side, Real Madrid knew they had to be at their very best. 

The match unfolded as a relentless tug of war. Every time City seemed to have secured a comfortable lead, Madrid clawed their way back. City’s early dominance saw them race to a 2-0 lead, only for Karim Benzema to halve the deficit. They led 3-1, then 4-2, but each time Madrid found a way to respond. By the final whistle, the scoreline read 4-3—a narrow victory for City but one that felt precarious given Madrid’s knack for turning the tide inthe  second legs. 

For 88 minutes and 27 seconds, Real Madrid trailed. Yet, as the dust settled, they remained very much alive in the tie, a testament to their indomitable spirit. 

City’s Missed Opportunities

Guardiola’s frustration was evident, and rightly so. City had the chance to put the tie beyond Madrid’s reach, especially in the first half, but a series of missed opportunities kept the door ajar for their opponents. 

The four goals City scored could easily have been eight. Their attacking prowess was undeniable, but their inability to capitalize fully on their dominance may yet haunt them. Guardiola’s history with near-misses in the Champions League will only add to the weight of those squandered moments if City fail to progress. 

A Tale of Two Goals

The final two goals of the night encapsulated the chaotic beauty of the game. City’s fourth came amidst confusion, as Real Madrid’s players momentarily stopped after Dani Carvajal fouled Oleksandr Zinchenko near the edge of the area. While some Madrid players paused, Bernardo Silva seized the moment, driving into the box and unleashing a thunderous shot past a static Thibaut Courtois. 

Madrid’s third goal, however, came courtesy of modern football’s contentious handball rules. A cross into the box struck Aymeric Laporte’s arm, and despite the lack of intent, the penalty was awarded. Benzema, with ice in his veins, chipped an audacious Panenka past Ederson to keep Madrid within touching distance. 

City’s Frailties Resurface

City’s defensive vulnerabilities against elite sides remain a cause for concern. In their last three games—two against Liverpool and one against Real—they have conceded eight goals. While their attack continues to dazzle, their inability to close out games against top-tier opponents could prove their undoing. 

History offers little solace. City’s Champions League campaigns have often ended in heartbreak: the six goals conceded to Monaco in 2017, the 5-1 aggregate loss to Liverpool in 2018, the away-goals exit to Tottenham in 2019, and the shock defeat to Lyon in 2020. Even last season’s triumph over Paris Saint-Germain in the semifinals feels like an exception rather than the rule. 

Madrid’s Indomitable Spirit

If Manchester City are haunted by their past, Real Madrid are emboldened by theirs. At the Santiago Bernabéu, they have made comebacks an art form, eliminating PSG and Chelsea dramatically in earlier rounds. Against City, they will draw strength from the roar of their home crowd and their unmatched pedigree in Europe’s premier competition. 

Karim Benzema remains their talisman, his goal-scoring exploits this season are nothing short of extraordinary. Alongside him, Vinícius Júnior’s electric pace and creativity make Madrid a constant threat. But perhaps their greatest weapon is their unyielding belief—a quality that has carried them through countless battles on the grandest stage. 

The Lion’s Den Awaits

As the second leg approaches, the tie hangs delicately in the balance. Manchester City will enter the lion’s den at the Bernabéu, knowing that their most formidable opponent may well be themselves. To progress, they must not only outplay Madrid but also conquer their own defensive frailties and the ghosts of campaigns past. 

For Real Madrid, the mission is clear: harness the chaos, thrive under pressure, and remind the world why they are the kings of Europe. 

The stage is set for another epic encounter, one that promises to test the limits of skill, resilience, and resolve. Football, at its finest, is a game of inches and moments—and at the Etihad, we were reminded why it remains the most beautiful game of all. 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar

Rivaldo: The Poetic Genius of Football

Brazil has long been the cradle of footballing artistry, producing maestros whose talent transcends the sport itself. Among these luminaries stands Rivaldo Vítor Borba Ferreira, a player whose journey from the dusty streets of Recife to the grandest stages of world football embodies the transformative power of talent, resilience, and sheer determination. Rivaldo’s story is not just about goals and trophies; it is a narrative of overcoming adversity, redefining football aesthetics, and leaving an indelible mark on the sport’s history.

The Roots of Greatness: Rivaldo’s Humble Beginnings

Born on April 19, 1972, in the impoverished neighbourhoods of Recife, Rivaldo’s early life was marked by hardship. Malnutrition and poverty were constant companions, yet they never extinguished his love for football. In fact, these adversities forged his character, imbuing him with the resilience and humility that would later define his career.

Playing barefoot on the sandy streets, Rivaldo honed his skills in an environment where creativity was a necessity, not a luxury. His unorthodox techniques and natural flair were evident even as a child. These formative years laid the foundation for a style that combined elegance with efficiency, artistry with pragmatism—a hallmark of Brazilian football at its finest.

Rivaldo’s ascent began in earnest with Santa Cruz in 1991, where his talent quickly drew attention. However, it was his move to Palmeiras in 1994 that marked his true emergence. Rivaldo was not just a player; he was a symbol of hope for fans who saw in him the embodiment of Brazil’s footballing heritage. His contributions helped Palmeiras secure two Campeonato Brasileiro Série A titles, and his performances echoed far beyond Brazilian shores, setting the stage for his European odyssey.

A Symphony in Europe: Rivaldo’s Rise to Stardom

 Rivaldo’s move to FC Barcelona in 1997 marked the beginning of a transformative chapter in his career, with the club securing him for a then-record fee of 4 billion pesetas (approximately $26 million). The decision to sign Rivaldo over Steve McManaman was championed by Sir Bobby Robson, who was convinced that the Brazilian’s goal-scoring prowess would prove invaluable to the team. Rivaldo’s first season in Catalonia was nothing short of impressive, as he finished as the club's second-highest scorer with 19 goals in 34 appearances. His contributions were pivotal in Barcelona’s triumphs in both La Liga and the Copa del Rey, securing a domestic double.

The following year, Rivaldo continued to shine, helping Barcelona secure another La Liga title in 1999. With 24 goals to his name, he once again finished as the league’s second-top scorer, reinforcing his status as one of the most prolific forwards in Europe. That same year, Rivaldo’s individual accolades reached their peak as he was named FIFA World Player of the Year and awarded the Ballon d'Or, solidifying his place among the footballing elite. Despite these personal triumphs, Barcelona's failure to make a significant impact in the Champions League led to speculation about Rivaldo’s future at the club, with Manchester United’s Roy Keane openly stating that Rivaldo was the player he most desired for United.

However, Rivaldo’s relationship with Barcelona took a complicated turn in his third season, when tensions arose with manager Louis van Gaal. The conflict centered on Rivaldo’s desire to play as a central playmaker, a role that clashed with van Gaal’s tactical preferences, which saw the Brazilian deployed on the left wing. Despite the strained relationship, Rivaldo’s performances remained exceptional, and he scored 10 goals in the Champions League, leading Barcelona to the semi-finals. Van Gaal’s departure in June 2000 marked the end of a turbulent chapter, but Rivaldo’s brilliance persisted.

In the 2000–01 season, Rivaldo once again demonstrated his goal-scoring prowess, finishing as La Liga’s second-highest scorer with 23 goals. His crowning achievement that season came in the final game, when Barcelona faced Valencia CF in a match that would determine their qualification for the 2001–02 Champions League. Rivaldo’s performance in this game is often cited as one of the greatest hat-tricks in football history. His first goal was a trademark bending free-kick that curled into the bottom corner, while the second saw him deceive a defender with a deft feint before unleashing a swerving strike from 25 yards. His match-winning third was a breathtaking bicycle kick from the edge of the box, a goal Rivaldo himself would later describe as the finest of his career.

The celebrations that followed were a testament to the significance of the moment. Rivaldo, overcome with emotion, ripped off his jersey and swung it above his head, while Barcelona president Joan Gaspart, breaking with tradition, punched the air in jubilant celebration alongside the opposition delegation. In the aftermath, Rivaldo expressed his deep satisfaction with the victory, dedicating the decisive goal to his teammates and the supporters who had endured a challenging season.

That season, Rivaldo’s total of 36 goals further cemented his place as one of the club’s all-time greats. Throughout his five-year tenure at Barcelona, he scored 130 goals, ranking him among the club’s highest goal-scorers. His time at Barcelona was defined by moments of individual brilliance, unforgettable goals, and a legacy that remains etched in the history of the club. Rivaldo’s ability to combine artistry with ruthless efficiency made him a player of rare distinction, and his influence on Barcelona during this period was profound.

The Pinnacle of Glory: Rivaldo and the World Cup

Rivaldo's journey with the Brazil national football team began in 1993 when he made his debut with a goal in a friendly against Mexico. His early involvement with the national team was marked by a notable selection for the 1996 Summer Olympics, where Brazil secured the bronze medal, although Rivaldo was not part of the team for the third-place playoff. Despite this, his return to the national squad for the 1998 FIFA World Cup was a defining moment in his career. During the tournament, he netted three goals, including two in the dramatic 3–2 quarter-final victory over Denmark. However, Brazil’s dreams of defending their 1994 World Cup title were dashed in the final, as they were comprehensively defeated 3–0 by France on their home turf.

Rivaldo’s absence from Brazil’s victorious 1997 Copa América campaign was a notable gap in his international success, but he more than made up for it in 1999, when he played a pivotal role in Brazil’s title defence. Finishing as the tournament's top scorer with five goals, Rivaldo’s performances were instrumental in Brazil’s triumph, including a memorable free-kick equalizer against Argentina in the quarter-finals and a brace in the 3–0 final victory over Uruguay. His efforts earned him the tournament’s Most Valuable Player award, cementing his status as one of Brazil’s finest.

Yet, Rivaldo’s national team career was not without its controversies. Following the 1996 Olympics, he found himself the target of criticism whenever Brazil failed to secure silverware. The 1–0 win over Colombia in 2000, where Rivaldo was booed by his own supporters, was particularly difficult, with the player even threatening to retire from international football in response to the hostile reception.

The apex of Rivaldo’s international career arrived at the 2002 FIFA World Cup, where he helped Brazil secure their fifth World Cup title, erasing the bitter memories of the 1998 final. Alongside Ronaldo and Ronaldinho, he formed the formidable attacking trio known as "the three R's." Rivaldo’s contributions were crucial throughout the tournament, scoring in each of Brazil’s first five matches, while Ronaldo’s goals in four of those games further highlighted the attacking synergy. Despite the success, Rivaldo's tournament was marred by a controversial incident in the quarter-final against Turkey. As Turkish defender Hakan Ünsal kicked a ball towards him, Rivaldo theatrically fell to the ground clutching his face after the ball struck his thigh, resulting in Ünsal’s sending-off. FIFA later fined Rivaldo for his actions, adding a layer of controversy to his World Cup campaign.

However, Rivaldo's brilliance on the field remained undeniable. His equalizer against Belgium in the second round was pivotal, and his assist for Ronaldinho’s match-winning goal against England in the quarter-finals further solidified his importance. In the final against Germany, Rivaldo played a crucial role in both of Ronaldo’s goals, with his shot leading to the first and a well-timed dummy contributing to the second. Brazil triumphed 2–0, and Rivaldo was named the best player of the tournament by coach Luiz Felipe Scolari. Along with Ronaldo and Ronaldinho, he was named to the FIFA World Cup All-Star Team, a fitting recognition of his stellar performances.

Rivaldo’s international career came to an end in November 2003, when he earned his 74th cap in a 3–3 draw with Uruguay. Just days earlier, he had scored his final goal for Brazil in a 1–1 draw with Peru. In his time with the national team, Rivaldo amassed 74 appearances and 35 goals, leaving an indelible mark on Brazil’s footballing history. His legacy, shaped by moments of brilliance and controversy alike, remains a testament to his unique blend of artistry, skill, and resilience.

Beyond the Spotlight: Rivaldo’s Later Years

While many players faded into obscurity after their peak, Rivaldo’s career took on a new dimension. His stints with AC Milan, Olympiacos, and AEK Athens showcased his adaptability and longevity. At Milan, he added a UEFA Champions League title to his collection, while in Greece, he continued to mesmerize fans with his skill and consistency well into his 30s.

Rivaldo’s later years were a testament to his enduring love for the game. Even as his pace waned, his footballing intelligence and technical mastery remained undiminished. He became a mentor figure, inspiring younger players and proving that true class is timeless.

A Legacy of Elegance and Impact

Rivaldo hailed as one of the finest players of his generation and a figure often considered among the greatest in football history, embodied a rare blend of artistry and efficiency that set him apart. His dribbling, characterized by exquisite feints, balance, and exceptional close ball control, demonstrated a finesse that belied his height, while his agility defied expectations for a player of his stature. As a dead-ball specialist, Rivaldo's ability to execute bending free kicks and convert penalties with precision became iconic, alongside his knack for powerful, long-range strikes that often left goalkeepers helpless. His left foot was a tool of both power and subtlety, capable of executing volleys with remarkable accuracy, and, notably, delivering bicycle kicks that showcased his technical brilliance.

Although not a traditional striker, Rivaldo’s prolific goal-scoring record stands as a testament to his versatility. Operating primarily as a playmaking attacking midfielder—often in the classic number 10 role—he was a maestro of vision and passing, consistently providing assists that demonstrated his footballing intelligence. His capacity to function as a second striker or a left-winger further underscored his adaptability. Even though his early career saw him deployed predominantly on the wing, his acceleration and crossing ability made him an invaluable asset in various offensive positions. Despite his left-footed dominance, Rivaldo's technical proficiency allowed him to perform effectively on either side of the pitch.

John Carlin of The Guardian aptly captured Rivaldo’s unique blend of artistry and efficiency, suggesting that he combined the two essential qualities of the ideal footballer. This fusion of creativity and effectiveness was also echoed by Rob Smyth, who, in 2008, drew comparisons between Rivaldo and Diego Maradona. Like the Argentine, Rivaldo exhibited a certain "bronca"—a fiery, passionate drive that elevated his performances, often in moments of adversity.

Yet, despite his extraordinary abilities, Rivaldo's talents were frequently overshadowed by the brilliance of his Brazilian counterparts, Ronaldo and Ronaldinho, as noted by former Dutch international Ruud Gullit. This unfortunate comparison, however, should not obscure Rivaldo’s immense contribution to the beautiful game, where his artistry, technical prowess, and efficiency made him a rare and unforgettable figure in the footballing world.

Conclusion: Rivaldo—A Timeless Icon

Rivaldo’s career is a symphony of skill, passion, and perseverance. From the streets of Recife to the grandest stages of world football, his journey is a testament to the transformative power of talent and hard work. Rivaldo was more than a footballer; he was an artist, a leader, and a beacon of hope for millions.

As football continues to evolve, Rivaldo’s legacy remains a constant—a reminder of what the sport can achieve when played with heart and imagination. His story is not just a chapter in football history; it is a timeless narrative that will inspire generations to come.

Thank You 

Faisal Caesar 

What a crazy night at Santiago Bernabeu!

God Dam, Real Madrid would kill all the Madridistas with such crazy nights of UEFA Champions League. Whenever the chips are down, Carlo Ancelotti raises his eyebrow and gives that look that seems bring Real Madrid back to life - our hearts come to our mouths. Pulse rate increases. Real Madrid win. But we are half-dead. 

Karim Benzema. Again. Not three this time, but one. The one that broke Chelsea’s hearts.

Chelsea lost in extra time when Benzema scored and they did not. And they lost in the first leg, by giving themselves such an obstacle to climb. Yet the rest of it was theirs. This was a great European performance, which is probably why it hurts so much to be playing no further part.

Chelsea conceded twice having raced to a 3-0 lead in 75 minutes. 

It was always going to be hard to contain them once the reality of elimination hit home - hit very hard.  

And that moment of revelation occurred when Timo Werner scored Chelsea’s third of the night. Even at 2-0 down, Madrid seemed to be sleepwalking.

Suddenly, when the aggregate score shifted to 4-3 in Chelsea’s favour, an alarm went off.  

Real Madrid started to wake up. 

The goal that sent the game to extra-time was a thing of true beauty. 

N’Golo Kante’s pass was cut out and Luka Modric played the pass of the night to Rodrygo, hit with the outside of his boot with stunning accuracy. 

The substitute met it on the volley at the far post to bring Madrid back to life. Even had away goals still counted in the UEFA competition the outcome would have been the same. 

A 3-1 win for the away team in both ties. 

he superhuman effort to score three at the Bernabeu – the first English team to do that since Manchester United in a drawn semi-final in 1968 – could not be continued for another 30 minutes. So it proved, even if the deciding goal had a degree of good fortune. It was that great double act that did it – Vinicius Junior provider, Benzema scorer – but the reason the striker had the space was that Antonio Rudiger slipped at a vital time.

It gave Benzema a free header from Vincius’ cross, and he made no mistake. Rudiger was stranded, and so was Edouard Mendy. And Benzema’s record of a goal a game in 2021-22 continues.

Madrid had the experience but this is also an aging team. Been there, seen it, done it. Maybe they thought they had this tie won in the first leg, too.

And, when hopes ended, they rose like a phoenix from the ashes - Chelsea were left stunned. 

Bernabeu was buzzing - tears of joy were shed. 

Yet another lifeline for Carlo Ancelotti's Real Madrid. 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar