With a strong desire to boost their international presence, women footballers on Saturday called on Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus to facilitate a friendly match beyond Asia—setting their sights on none other than European Champions League winners Barcelona!
Winger Krishna Rani Sarkar came up with the ambitious proposal while Yunus was according a reception to SAFF Women’s Championship trophy winners at state guesthouse Jamuna. Yunus has a close connection with Futbol Club Barcelona.
In a heartfelt gathering, Chief Adviser Prof. Muhammad Yunus urged the players of the SAFF-winning Bangladesh women's football team to articulate their aspirations, struggles, and demands.
“Do not hesitate to write down whatever you wish. We will strive to fulfill your requests. If there’s anything we can address now, we will do it immediately,” he affirmed.
During his 2016 visit to FC Barcelona, Muhammad Yunus gives a thumbs-up while sporting the club's jersey. – Screengrab
The meeting took place following the team’s exhilarating 2-1 victory over Nepal in the final of the seventh SAFF Women's Championship in Kathmandu on October 30.
Prof Yunus attentively listened as the victorious players shared their dreams and the daily challenges they confront as women in sports.
“I congratulate you on behalf of the entire nation for your remarkable success. The nation is grateful to you. The people of our country yearn for achievements, and you have delivered,” he expressed in his opening remarks, setting a tone of pride and appreciation for the team's efforts.
Captain Sabina Khatun expressed gratitude for the warm reception, emphasizing the hurdles they had to overcome to reach this pinnacle.
“It’s not just the women’s football team but women in Bangladesh who face numerous struggles,” she pointed out.
Reflecting on her journey since starting her football career in 2009, Sabina acknowledged the sacrifices of previous generations who paved the way for their passion.
Many team members come from modest backgrounds and bear the responsibility of supporting their families.
“Our salaries do not allow us to contribute much, as we do not earn enough,” Sabina lamented, her voice thick with emotion as she recounted the hardships faced by some teammates, particularly Maria Manda.
Maria, hailing from the well-known Kalasindur village in Mymensingh—which boasts six players on the SAFF-winning team—lost her father at a young age and was raised solely by her mother.
Winger Krishna Rani Sarkar raised concerns about their living conditions in Dhaka, while midfielder Manika Chakma shared her struggles to pursue football in Laksmichhari, one of the most remote areas in the Khagrachhari hill district.
Midfielder Shopna Rani highlighted the inadequate infrastructure in her native Ranishankail village in Dinajpur.
The event was attended by Coach Peter Butler, Manager Mahmuda Akter, and advisers Asif Mahmud, Supradip Chakma, Bidhan Chandra Roy, and Nurjahan Begum, who were all present to support and celebrate the achievements of the Tigresses.
With a commitment to listening and responding to the players’ needs, Prof. Yunus continues to advocate for a brighter future for women in sports in Bangladesh.