Bangladesh on Sunday will kick off their SAFF Women’s Championship 2024 campaign with their opening Group A match against Pakistan this afternoon at Dasharath Rangasala Stadium in Kathmandu, Nepal.
The match is scheduled to start at 5:45 pm (Bangladesh time).
A win against Pakistan will secure Bangladesh's spot in the semifinals. Pakistan, meanwhile, find themselves in a tough spot, having lost 5-2 to India in their opening match. If Bangladesh emerges victorious on Sunday, their final group match against India will determine the Group A champions.
For Pakistan, this match is crucial, as a loss would eliminate them from the tournament.
The Bangladesh team arrived in Nepal on 15 October, giving them ample time to prepare and adapt to the local conditions. The team, a blend of youth and experience, is eager to defend their title. They also received a boost with the return of forward Krishnarani Sarkar, who has recovered from injury ahead of the Pakistan clash.
Bangladesh will face India in their final group match on 23 October at the same venue. The top two teams from each group will progress to the semifinals, scheduled for 27 October, with the final set to take place on 30 October.
All matches will be held at Dasharath Rangasala Stadium.
Bangladesh Squad: Rupna Chakma, Mst Yeazman Begum, Mile Akter, Masura Parvin, Afeida Khandakar, Sheuli Azim, Shamsunnahar (Sr.) Nilifa Yasmin Nila, Kohati Kisku, Monika Chakma, Maria Manda, Sapna Rani, Munki Akter, Airin Akter, Sumaya Matsushima, Sanjida Akter, Ritu Porno Chakma, Shaheda Akter Ripa, Sabina Khatun, Tohura Khatun, Shamsunnahar (Jr.), Krishna Rani Sarkar and Mst Sagorika.
Bd-Pratidin English/ Afsar Munna
