Sports Desk – Bangladesh is set to face a formidable Nepal side today in the high-stakes semifinal of the SAFF Women’s Championship. In a bid to secure a spot in the final, Bangladesh head coach Peter Butler has made three crucial changes to the starting XI, sidelining three star players due to injuries and form slumps. Notably, center-back Afeida Khandaker has been recalled to bolster the defense.
Aiming to conquer Nepal, young forward Surovi Akand Preeti and Umehla Marma have earned their spots in the starting lineup alongside Afeida. Meanwhile, experienced midfielder Monica Chakma, defender Surma Jannat, and out-of-form striker Tohura Khatun (Shamsunnahar Jr.) have dropped out of the starting eleven.
Team sources confirmed that Monica Chakma, who struggled in the previous match against India, is not yet fully fit. Avoiding any risks in this high-voltage encounter, the coach decided to keep her on the bench. Similarly, Shamsunnahar Jr. missed out due to a dip in form, making way for Surovi Akand Preeti on the right wing. This marks the first time the young prodigy is starting for the national team.
On the other hand, Afeida Khandaker, who was dropped against India after playing 24 consecutive international matches, has regained the team management’s trust for this crucial semifinal clash.
The historic battle will kick off at 4:30 PM Bangladesh time at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Goa, India.
Bangladesh XI against Nepal:
Mili Akhter (GK), Afeida Khandaker, Surovi Arfin, Kohati Kisku, Shamsunnahar Sr., Maria Manda (C), Masura Parvin (Momita Akhter), Umehla Marma, Ritu Porna Chakma, Surovi Akand Preeti, and Anika Rania Siddique.