WORLD CUP FEVER grips celebrities

The flags are out, jerseys ready and excitement is at its peak as the world anxiously awaits the FIFA World Cup to kick off in Russia today. It is the tournament where we have the amazing confluence of football's best players coming together in one spot.

Our celebrities, too, are pumped up for the football madness. We caught up with many of them to find out their favourite football memories, and the teams they are supporting or think will win. Predominantly, our stars have their eyes set on two teams:  Brazil and Argentina.

Crowned by fans and critics alike as the “King of Dhaliwood,” Shakib Khan is the model superstar when it comes to the Bangladeshi film industry. Just as he has captured the hearts of millions, there is one football team that has his heart. This year, he hopes that Brazil takes the trophy home. Similarly, star couple Omar Sani and Moushumi are also supporters of Brazil. “I plan to watch the world cup in between shoots with my husband and kids. We want to watch every game – not just the matches of Brazil!” says Moushumi.

Looking back on the days when he used to play football drenched in the rain, actor Mahfuz Ahmed is yet another supporter of Brazil. He says that the world cup season is quite a euphoric time for him. Renowned artistes Afsana Mimi and Shomi Kaiser are also Brazil fans.

On the other hand, Chanchal Chowdhury, who is known among his fans as 'Ayna' or 'Misir Ali' these days, loves Argentina. In his school and college days, Chowdhury often played football. He is excited to bond with his son Shuddho over the world cup this year.

Actor Zahid Hassan has many fond memories of playing football back in his hometown, Sirajganj. He and his wife, renowned model and actor Sadia Islam Mou support Argentina. Likewise, actor Ferdous fell in love with Maradona's style of playing quite early on, and since then, he has been a loyal follower of Argentina.

Popular artistes Monalisa and Zakia Bari Mamo also support Argentina. Mamo, a national award-winning actor, says that she has been a fan of the team since childhood. On the contrary, Shajal says that he will be cheering for Brazil. “I think the Brazilian players are really capable. I trust them fully,” he asserts.

There is another beloved celebrity couple who are on the same side: eminent filmmaker Mustafa Sarwar Farooki and his wife, actor Nusrat Imroz Tisha. Both of them are loyal to Brazil.

Amidst the host of Brazil and Argentina fans, Azizul Hakim has a different viewpoint, as he supports Germany.

Lastly, this world cup seems to be quite disheartening for actor Poppy, as her favourite team, Italy, is not participating. However, she is still really looking forward to the matches. Needless to say, our stars are just as elated as us for the world's most watched sporting event. Let the games begin!