Since Bangladesh's historic victory in the SAFF Women's Championship two years ago, there have been increasing calls for initiatives to elevate women's football in the country beyond the South Asian region. This demand has gained momentum following the team’s successful title defense in Nepal recently, reports The Daily Star.
Mahfuza Akter Kiron, the chair of the women's wing of the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF), emphasized that advancing women's football outside South Asia is contingent upon receiving financial and infrastructural support from the government. She noted that the governing body has faced challenges in organizing training camps and conducting leagues and FIFA-friendly matches due to a lack of resources.
"We lack proper infrastructure and training grounds for women's football, making it remarkable that our team has become back-to-back champions in South Asia," Kiron stated at a press conference at the BFF House on Sunday. She added that efforts to develop women's football have been consistent, and they have previously requested support from the government. "Without assistance, we cannot elevate the sport to the next level, and we are making similar requests to the interim government."
On Saturday, Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus hosted a reception for the SAFF-winning team at the State Guest House, Jamuna, inviting players to submit their individual demands in writing. Kiron expressed gratitude for the reception and the financial incentives for the players. "While the Chief Adviser has promised to consider the players' individual requests, we at the BFF also plan to present a development proposal to the interim government after consulting with the newly elected executive committee."
Kiron highlighted the difficulties in regularly organizing competitions for women’s football due to the absence of dedicated facilities, stressing the need for a dedicated training ground. "If the government could provide us with an academy similar to BKSP and a proper training facility, it would greatly benefit the development of women's football."
Additionally, she mentioned the necessity for financial support to enhance the coaching staff, including hiring foreign coaches, and for organizing FIFA-friendly matches. "Our women's team rarely gets the chance to play friendly matches because of funding shortages. If the government can assist us in scheduling five to six friendly matches during FIFA windows each year, we could potentially advance beyond the South Asian level," Kiron concluded.
BFF's Demands
Dedicated ground
BKSP-like Academy
Playing at least 5-6 FIFA friendlies
Financial support for training camp
Financial support for coaching staff
Bd-pratidin English/ Afia
