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VALERIA SOSA
Updated
Argentina is one of the countries that receives the most love from fans around the world. But there is one nation that has practically adopted the Albiceleste despite being more than 10,000 miles away. Bangladesh, a country of more than 175 million people, has embraced Argentina, Lionel Messi, and football with unmatched passion.
Emiliano Martínez’s move for Bangladeshi reporter wins over fans
Even though Bangladesh has never qualified for a FIFA World Cup, it is a football-crazy nation that has built a bond with Argentina that is impossible to ignore. Thousands of supporters gather wearing Argentina jerseys, celebrating every goal as if it belonged to their own national team while backing the reigning world champions with remarkable loyalty.
Messi mania takes over Bangladesh as fans celebrate Argentina like their own team
A bond that goes both ways
That affection has not gone unnoticed by the Argentine squad. The players have seen the videos and the overwhelming support coming from Bangladesh, making it clear that the admiration is mutual. Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez proved exactly that during Argentina’s media day with a gesture that quickly went viral.
Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez proved exactly that during Argentina’s media day with a gesture that quickly went viral
The goalkeeper had already finished his interviews and was walking away when he heard that one of the reporters was from Bangladesh. He immediately stopped to speak with the journalist, sharing his appreciation for the country and its passionate support for Argentina.
Having previously visited Bangladesh, Martínez said he truly loves the nation and values the incredible backing the team receives there. After learning that Bangladeshi fans are hoping to see Argentina reach another World Cup final, he acknowledged how deeply connected they feel to the Albiceleste, saying their passion makes them feel like Argentinians while sending all his love to the country.
The story behind Bangladesh’s love for Argentina
It may seem like an unusual relationship, but there is a historical reason behind Bangladesh’s affection for Argentina. Messi’s global popularity has strengthened that connection, but the roots of the admiration go back decades.
In the quarterfinals of the 1986 FIFA World Cup, Argentina defeated England, the country that had colonized the region now known as Bangladesh for nearly 200 years. During that match, Diego Maradona scored the iconic “Hand of God” goal, a moment that still holds a special place among Bangladeshi football fans and remains one of the foundations of their lasting bond with Argentina.
