Following their historic triumph in the SAFF Women's Championship, Bangladesh's football heroines, led by Captain Sabina Khatun, are currently enjoying a well-deserved break. While the senior team rests, the nation's young talent is gearing up for the upcoming SAFF U-20 Women's Championship, scheduled for February 11th to 19th.
Training for the U-20 squad is set to commence on December 1st under the watchful eye of English coach Peter Butler. A total of 30 promising players have been selected to participate in the rigorous training sessions. This development was announced by Mahfuza Akter Kiron recently, the Chair of the BFF Women's Committee.
Since their triumphant return from Nepal on October 31st, the senior team has been inundated with accolades and celebrations. They've graced various receptions and events, showcasing their newfound fame and inspiring the nation. However, their time off is set to end soon as they prepare to address crucial issues with the newly elected Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) president, Tabith Awal.
The players have a list of demands aimed at elevating women's football in Bangladesh. These include substantial pay raises, improved training facilities, increased international exposure through more matches, and a strengthened domestic league.
Meanwhile, the future of women's football in Bangladesh is being shaped, with a comprehensive plan currently under development. Details of this plan are expected to be unveiled by mid-December.
In a recent meeting with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, through Youth and Sports Advisor Asif Mahmud, Sabina Khatun and her teammates expressed their personal aspirations and concerns. Many players have requested residential accommodations in Dhaka to facilitate easier visits from their families for medical reasons or simply to spend quality time together.
Moreover, the players highlighted specific challenges faced by individuals within their communities. Monica Chakma, for instance, lacks access to electricity, while Maria Manda's hometown is grappling with severe river erosion. Sabina also shed light on the ongoing uncertainty surrounding a potential move to the North Macedonian club Brera Tiverija, which has expressed interest in signing both her and Ritu Porna Chakma.
