Photo : BSS

KHULNA, June 4, 2026 (BSS) - Excitement surrounding the upcoming FIFA World Cup has gripped football enthusiasts in Khulna, leading to a significant increase in the sale of team jerseys, flags, and football-related merchandise across the city.

Sports lovers are flocking daily to sports markets and retail outlets to purchase jerseys and accessories of their favorite teams, creating a vibrant atmosphere in local marketplaces.

Russel, owner of Royal Sports at Khulna's traditional Sports Market, said demand for jerseys has raised manifold ahead of the tournament.

“More than 50 jerseys are being sold every day. Argentina and Brazil jerseys are the top sellers, followed by those of Spain, Portugal, and France. Sales have increased considerably compared to previous months, and we expect the demand to grow further during the World Cup,” he said.

Talha Hossain, a young football fan shopping for jerseys, said he could not imagine the World Cup without wearing his favorite team's colors.

“I am an Argentina supporter. Before the World Cup, buying Argentina’s three-star jersey is a matter of pride for fans like me. I came here with friends to buy jerseys of Argentina, Brazil, and Spain. We plan to play football every day during the tournament and want to wear our favorite teams’ jerseys while playing,” he added.

A visit to Khulna’s Sports Market revealed that locally made half-sleeve jerseys are selling for Tk 400 to Tk 800, while player-edition jerseys are priced at around Tk 1,300. 

Matching shorts are available between Tk 200 and Tk 300. Children's jerseys, depending on size, are being sold for Tk 200 to Tk 400.

Traders said the World Cup has also increased demand for footballs and other sporting equipment, including boots and shin guards, with customers of all ages purchasing sports gear ahead of the tournament.

Apart from the Sports Market, World Cup jerseys are being sold at fashion outlets, major markets, and temporary roadside stalls across the city. Demand for national flags of participating countries has also risen sharply.

Vendors believe sales of jerseys and flags will continue to climb as the World Cup approaches.

The growing enthusiasm among football fans has already brought renewed vibrancy to Khulna’s markets, while traders remain optimistic about stronger business in the coming weeks.

Liakat Ali, another owner of a sports shop, echoed the same sentiment. "Sales are much better than usual. Every day, more customers are coming. Once the tournament begins, demand will increase even further," he said.

For many traders, the World Cup represents one of the most profitable periods of the year. Seasonal football merchandise often provides a significant boost to earnings, particularly for small retailers and street vendors.

At the same time, the tournament creates a festive atmosphere that extends beyond the realm of commerce. Across the country, supporters are preparing to decorate rooftops, fly giant national flags, and organise community viewing events.

As kickoff approaches, the growing crowds at Jersey markets reflect more than consumer demand. They reveal the enduring emotional connection Bangladeshis have with the world's biggest sporting event.

While the World Cup may be played thousands of kilometres away, the passion it inspires is already alive in Bangladesh's streets, markets and homes -- where football remains not just a sport, but a celebration.