Bangladesh's star midfielder Hamza Choudhury’s thunderous strike lit up the Accu Stadium on Wednesday night, but it wasn’t enough to prevent Leicester City from crashing out of the Carabao Cup at the first hurdle. The Foxes were edged 3–2 on penalties by League One side Huddersfield Town after a pulsating 2–2 draw in regulation time.
Hamza’s 54th-minute strike — a thunderous effort from distance — was a rare moment of individual brilliance in a match that ebbed and flowed. Hamza's stunning strike briefly put Leicester in control. But just 11 minutes later, the midfielder conceded a penalty, bringing down Ruben Roosken in the box. Though Dion Charles’ initial effort was saved, Daniel Vost reacted quickest to level for the Terriers.
Harry Winks restored Leicester’s lead with a curling finish, but Cameron Ashia’s late equaliser forced the match to penalties.
In a twist of fate, Hamza was substituted in the 83rd minute — replaced by Bilal El Khannous — presumably to freshen up the midfield and prepare for the shootout. But the decision backfired. El Khannous missed his penalty, while Hamza, had he remained on the pitch, might have taken one himself. Given his composure and confidence on the night, it’s hard not to wonder: could he have made the difference?
Terriers keeper Lee Nicholls saved from Jordan Ayew and Kasey McAteer, sealing Huddersfield’s place in the second round. For Leicester, it’s a frustrating exit — especially for a side with Premier League pedigree and promotion ambitions. Hamza’s performance was a bright spot, but his early withdrawal left especially Bangladeshi fans asking, “What if?”
