Amman: Bangladesh national women’s football team is poised for a promising start as they prepare to face higher-ranked Indonesia in the inaugural match of the tri-nation International FIFA friendly series at the King Abdullah II Stadium tomorrow (Saturday).
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the match is scheduled to kick off at 8 pm Bangladesh time. Ahead of the game, Bangladesh captain Afeida Khandaker conveyed through an audio message that the team arrived early to acclimate to the local weather and has been rigorously preparing under their coach’s guidance. Khandaker expressed optimism about achieving a favorable result against Indonesia in their opening match.
Highlighting the team’s strength, Khandaker mentioned that the current squad is a blend of experienced and young players, a change from their last tour in Dubai. She is hopeful that this combination will help meet expectations in the series. Team manager Mahmuda Akter echoed this sentiment, noting that the players are in good physical condition and confident about securing a full three points against Indonesia.
Akter commented on the successful completion of the day’s training session, emphasizing the team’s strong bonding and her hope for a positive outcome. “We didn’t have many senior players in our last tour in Dubai, but now we have a mix of senior and junior players. We hope they will deliver good results on the field,” she concluded.
Following the match against Indonesia, Bangladesh will face host Jordan on July 3. Both Indonesia and Jordan rank higher than Bangladesh on paper. The series serves as preparation for Bangladesh’s participation in the upcoming AFC Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers, where they will compete against Myanmar, Bahrain, and Turkmenistan.
Bangladesh Squad:
– *Goalkeepers:* Rupna Chakma, Meghla Rani, Ferdousi Akter Shonale.
– *Defenders:* Sheuli Azim, Shamsunnahar Sr, Afeida Khandaker (Captain), Joynab Bibi Rita.
– *Midfielders:* Monika Chakma, Maria Manda, Munki Akter, Sapna Rani, Kohati Kisku, Halima Akter, Shanti Mardi.
– *Forwards:* Ritu Porna Chakma, Tohura Khatun, Shamsunnahar Jr, Mosammat Sagorika, Shaheda Akter Ripa, Sauravi Akonda Prity, Mosammat Sultana, Nobirun Khatun, Umehla Marma.