In a significant boost for women's football in Bangladesh, five members of the SAFF Women's Championship-winning team have departed for Thimphu to join the Bhutan National Women's Football League, which kicks off on April 25, 2025. The players, who left Dhaka on Sunday morning, April 13, 2025, include senior talents Sanjida Akter, Maria Manda, Shamsunnahar Sr, Masura Parvin, and SAFF’s best goalkeeper, Rupna Chakma. Their arrival in Bhutan marks a historic moment as it brings the total number of Bangladeshi footballers participating in the league this season to a record nine, showcasing the growing prominence of women’s football in the country.
However, the team will be without forward Krishna Rani Sarkar, who could not travel due to delays in obtaining her work permit. This setback is disappointing for the squad, as Sarkar was expected to make a significant impact in the league. Last Sunday, April 6, 2025, four other Bangladeshi players—national team captain Sabina Khatun, SAFF MVP Ritu Porna Chakma, along with Monika Chakma and Matsushima Sumaya—had already reached Thimphu to begin their campaign with Paro FC.
In this season’s Bhutan league, Bangladeshi players will represent three different clubs. Paro FC will feature Sabina, Ritu Porna, Monika, and Sumaya, while Masura Parvin and Rupna Chakma will don the colors of Transport United. Sanjida Akter, Maria Manda, and Shamsunnahar Sr will play for Thimphu City FC. This diverse representation underscores the expanding opportunities for Bangladeshi female footballers on international stages.
According to FIFA regulations, clubs are required to release players for national team duties whenever called upon. This ensures that the players can continue to contribute to their national team while also gaining valuable experience in foreign leagues. Sabina Khatun, a seasoned international player, has previously showcased her skills in the Maldives league, while Sanjida Akter had a stint with Kolkata's East Bengal Club. Their experiences abroad are expected to enhance their performance in the upcoming league.
Additionally, Sabina, Ritu Porna, Maria, and Monika had represented Royal Thimphu College FC in the AFC Women's Champions League qualifiers held in Bhutan in August last year (2024). This prior experience in the region will be beneficial as they adapt to the competitive environment of the Bhutan National Women's Football League.
The participation of these Bangladeshi footballers is anticipated to bring added excitement to the competition this season. The league is set to run for four months, and with the increasing number of Bangladeshi players, the dynamics of the tournament are expected to shift. Coach Peter Butler, who resumed training with the senior squad on April 7, 2025, after a break, is optimistic about the players' potential to excel in this new environment.
Despite the challenges, the growing presence of Bangladeshi female footballers in international leagues reflects the rapid progress and recognition of women’s football in the country. With nine players now competing in Bhutan, the future looks bright for female athletes in Bangladesh. As the league approaches, fans and supporters are eager to see how these players will perform and contribute to their respective clubs.
As the Bhutan Women's Football League prepares to commence, anticipation builds for what promises to be an exciting season filled with competitive matches and standout performances. The Bangladeshi players are ready to make their mark and inspire the next generation of female footballers back home.
