Muhammad Talha
Sunday 27th July 2025 – Rising Stars Sports Academy, Birmingham
After an eight month long season Team London were crowned Inter City Bangla Cup Champions 2025 after a thrilling final day at Game Day 8, hosted by the Birmingham Bengal Legends. The atmosphere was electric as Birmingham, Kent, Sussex, Essex, Luton, and London battled it out over a day of 11 a side games.
London’s campaign started strong with a gritty 1-0 win over Luton, Abdul Khaher netting the decisive goal. A narrow 1-0 defeat to Kent followed, but London rallied when it mattered most, securing the title with a commanding 2-0 win over hosts and runners up Birmingham – both goals coming from captain Aktar Hussain, and expertly assisted by Sherif Ahmed.
Elsewhere, KSE and Birmingham played out a tense goalless draw, before KSE comfortably beat Luton 8-1 to claim third place. Every team brought passion, flair, and veteran grit to a fitting season finale.
The Inter City Bangla Cup has become a beacon for unity, fitness, and mental wellbeing. It has reignited a love for football among veteran footballers, extending playing careers and reconnecting communities through sport.
The event concluded with a lavish celebratory dinner and presentation at the Badshah Palace, reflecting Birmingham’s flawless hospitality.
Mamun Uddin of Team London, who launched the Inter City League commented, “We’re still writing our story. Age is no barrier when your heart beats for the game. This championship has reignited something special in all of us.”
Captain and ICBC Golden Boot winner Aktar Hussain said, “This win is for every player who refused to hang up their boots. London stood tall today.”
Coach Emdad Rahman added, “Football is ageless and this league proves that passion never retires. Many of these players thought their days on the pitch were over, but here they are, playing with pride, competing hard, and inspiring the next generation. This Championship has given us purpose.”
Team London – Inter City Bangla Cup Champions
Md Raqeeb Shamim, Saiful Islam, Mamun Uddin, Sherif Ahmed, Saim Hussain, Kamruz Zaman, Akbal Ahmed, Anamul Hoque, Sana Miah, Masud Miah, Helal Uddin, Saad Miah, Mofojul Ali, Masum Ahmed, Nasim Ahmed, Aktar Hussain
Head Coach: Emdad Rahman