In the annals of our nation's sporting history, the role of the goalkeeper has been pivotal, often serving as the last line of defence in the beautiful game of football. It is a position that has been graced by illustrious figures such as Shahidur Rahman Santu and Mohammad Mohsin, whose legacies continue to inspire a generation. While the echoes of their fame persist, the search for successors of comparable stature remains a subject of keen interest within the football fraternity.
Presently, the likes of Anisur Rahman Zico of Bashundhara Kings have stepped into the limelight, with Mehedi Hasan Srabon ascending as the preferred choice for the Kings in the wake of Zico. The emergence of Mitul Marma of Sheikh Russel has not gone unnoticed by national team coach Javier Cabrera, while goalkeeper Sujan Hossain of Mohammedan Sporting Club (MSC) has endeared himself to fans with his commendable performances, particularly noted in the Federation Cup final.
In the recent Mymensingh match, Mehdi and Sujan played crucial roles for their teams in the Federation Cup final. Mehdi Hasan save of Souleymane Diabate’s shot was pivotal after MSC had taken the lead. Similarly, the game's outcome could have been different had Sujan not thwarted Dorielton Gomes early on. Sujan also managed to disappoint Robinho. Throughout the match, Mehdi consistently denied goals, and his 'acrobatic save' in the final moments against MSC became a talking point as the Kings clinched their fifth consecutive league title.
Mehdi seized his chance when Zico faced a ban, taking on the challenge of the AFC Cup matches as a newcomer. Zico now observes Mehdi's performances from the sidelines.
Meanwhile, Mitul Marma has excelled in the youth categories and has surprisingly made it into Javier Cabrera's first team. Demonstrating immense trust, he captains his club Sheikh Russell at just 20 years old.
The goalkeepers have reignited interest in their role after a significant hiatus. Biplab Bhattacharya, who shone in the 1999 SAFF Games final, continues to be deeply involved in football as a goalkeeper coach. The renewed focus on goalkeepers is a source of joy for him.
Modern goalkeeping involves a blend of hand and footwork, contributing to the team's overall play.
The current standouts, particularly Mitul, Srabon, and Mehdi, are young and have ample opportunities to further their skills, which bodes well for the nation's football.
