Bhutan Football

The points are spoiled at Changlimithang National Stadium in the 14th match of the BoB Bhutan Premier League, 2023 between Thimphu Raven FC and Ugyen Academy FC.  Although Ugyen Academy FC started the match quite well, Thimphu Raven FC drew first blood as Martins, a pivotal player in their offensive lineup, managed to find the back of the net. His precise outfoot shot left the Ugyen Academy FC goalkeeper with little chance to react. The Raven FC players exhibited seamless coordination, stringing together impressive passes and attacking with calculated aggression. However, Ugyen Academy FC wasn’t ready to concede defeat. Their star player, Santa Kumar, rose to the occasion, displaying his prowess by equalizing the score. Santa’s goal was a testament to his individual brilliance, as he maneuvered through the opposition’s defense before launching towards the ball with a tap in that nestled into the net, leveling the playing field. As the game progressed, both sides fought relentlessly for control of the midfield and possession, engaging in a tactical battle that showcased the depth of their strategies. The defence on both ends remained resilient, thwarting numerous goal-scoring opportunities and ensuring the scoreline remained deadlocked. In the end, despite their best efforts, neither team managed to clinch victory, resulting in a well-deserved 1-1 draw. The head coach of Ugyen Academy FC, Ms. Denka, stated that the team is not happy with a point as they didn’t expect a draw. I know how my players play, and we actually thought that we would win the game. In the opening half, the game wasn’t going according to plan, so we had to make several changes, but I am happy with the second-half performance. She also added that one of the reasons her players are not performing well is due to a lack of proper training grounds, as they have been training on the mini-pitch. On the other hand, the head coach of Thimphu Raven FC stated that he is happy with one point but could have been happier if they could have snatched all three points. He also had full praise for the local players, who played wholeheartedly. The final match of match week three will be played between Tensung FC and BFF Academy FC at MTC Ground tomorrow.

The 4 month long Bhutan Women’s National League Qualifiers, 2023 ended yesterday. A total of 8 teams from 4 districts in the country participated in the qualifiers. POS CLUB MP WIN DRAW LOSS GF GA GD PTS 1 UA WFC 7 6 0 1 35 4 31 18 2 RTC WFC 7 6 0 1 55 6 49 18 3 GAG FC 7 5 0 2 59 7 52 15 4 THIMPHU WFC 7 5 0 2 36 9 27 15 5 TRANSPORT UNITED LADIES  7 3 0 4 34 15 19 9 6 SAMTSE WFC 7 2 0 5 26 40 -14 6 7 GELPHU CITY WFC 7 1 0 6 5 82 -77 3 8 BUMTHANG WFC 7 0 0 7 0 87 -87 0 WOMEN’S NATIONAL LEAGUE QUALIFIERS 2023  Points Table UA WFC, RTC WFC,  GAG FC, Thimphu WFC, Transport United Ladies, Samtse WFC qualified for the Bhutan Women’s National League, 2023 while Gelephu City WFC and Bumthang WFC were relegated. RTC FC UA FC GAG FC Thimphu WFC Transport United FC Samtse WFC The Bhutan Women’s National League, 2023 kicks off on 19th August, 2023.

In an electrifying display between two top 5 teams from last season who clashed at Changlimithang National Stadium, Transport United FC took on Druk Lhayul FC in the 13th match of the ongoing BoB Bhutan Premier League.  The game began with both teams exhibiting their determination to dominate the field. From the outset, Transport United FC exhibited excellent ball control and showcased their attacking capabilities, hitting three shots on target within the first three minutes. Their relentless efforts paid off in the 18th minute when they were pointed at the spot kick after consulting the VAR, in which the officials and the players of Druk Lhayul FC complained that the decision to give the penalty was poor as the challenge by Phuntsho on Mosses was minimal and the loose ball was already with the defender of Druk Lhayul FC. The birthday boy, “Phurpa Tenzin,” stood firmly to take the penalty and netted the first goal of the match. His precise strike left Tshering Dendup, the goalkeeper, with no chance as the ball hit the back of the net. Phurpa Tenzin roaring with happiness as he slots home a perfect penalty to hand his team a lead Druk Lhayul FC fought back valiantly, attempting to equalize the score, but they struggled to penetrate Transport United’s solid defence, and all their shots from outside the box were collected by the goalkeeper easily. The first half came to an end with the score at 1-0, leaving both teams eager to make an impact in the second half. As the second half commenced, the intensity only heightened. Transport United continued to put pressure on their opponents, and in the 52nd minute, Tsenda Dorji brilliantly extended their lead with a well-timed shot over the goalkeeper and into the net. Despite their opponents’ resurgence, Transport United FC was relentless in their pursuit of victory. In the 54th minute, Mosses showcased his skills by scoring from close range for Transport United, scoring the third and final goal that put the game out of Druk Lhayul’s reach. However, Druk Lhayul FC refused to be defeated without a fight. Just eight minutes after conceding the second goal, they managed to find the back of the net, providing a glimmer of hope and narrowing the margin to 2-1. The goal was scored by Aung Kyaw Naing after a beautiful cross was delivered by Lekpai Dendup, demonstrating the fighting spirit of the Druk Lhayul team.   Aung Kyaw Naing scored a consolation in the second half With a 3-1 lead, Transport United FC continued to control the match, displaying impressive teamwork and discipline. Druk Lhayul FC tried to make a comeback, but the Transport United defence stood firm, denying them any further opportunities to score. As the final whistle blew, Transport United FC celebrated a well-deserved victory, securing three crucial points and extending their unbeaten run to three in the league.  

From the opening whistle, RTC FC displayed their intent to dominate the game. Their relentless pressure and fluid passing created countless scoring opportunities, leaving Namlha FC struggling to keep up. It didn’t take long for RTC FC to find the net through Sonam Jugdrul Chozang at the 24th minute, setting the tone for the rest of the match. As the game progressed, RTC FC continued to dictate the tempo, exploiting gaps in Namlha FC’s defence with precision. Their midfielder, Yeshi Gyeltshen, found the back of the net with his header in the 33rd minute. The home team midfielders controlled the game with their impeccable ball control and distribution, while the defence stood resolute, denying any chances for Namlha FC to stage a comeback. 5 minutes before the actual break, Sherub Dorji hit an absolutely wonderful shot from an impossible angle to lead by three goals at halftime. RTC FC smashes Namlha FC at RTC Astro Ground The second half saw RTC FC relentless in their pursuit of goals, putting Namlha FC under immense pressure. The opposition struggled to cope with RTC FC’s cohesive teamwork and attacking combinations. However, Namlha FC pulled one through on the penalty. However, RTC FC’s striker Sonam Jugdrul was on fire, adding three more to his tally, leaving the spectators in awe of their footballing prowess. To add on, Sherub Dorji stole the show with his worldie freekick, which was set up perfectly by his teammates. RTC FC’s victory was comprehensive and well-deserved. The team erupted with joy as the final whistle blew, celebrating their team’s remarkable display. This resounding victory will undoubtedly boost RTC FC’s confidence and serve as a stepping stone for their upcoming matches this season. Tomorrow Transport United FC will play against Druk Lhayul FC at Changlimithang National Stadium.

In the clash of giants at Woochu Sports Arena, Paro FC welcomed their title contender rivals of previous seasons, “Thimphu City FC,” for their second home match. To date back to their head-to-head record last season, Paro FC won one game at Changlimithang National Stadium that decided the title and drew at Paro Sports Arena in the first leg. Thimphu City FC started the game quite nicely, getting control over the ball and getting the ball into the opposition box quite frequently. They got an excellent opportunity in the 2nd minute of the game when Dawa did lots of dancing inside the Paro FC box and crossed to Karma Shedrup, who flicked the ball to Chencho Gyeltshen, who pulled the trigger. However, his shot was blocked by Florent. Thimphu City FC players appealed for a handball, but it was overturned by the referee after reviewing the VAR. In the next minute, Paro FC registered a shot on target from their striker, Kazuo, after a counter from them; however, the shot was stopped quickly by his Japanese counterpart. Thimphu City FC also got an excellent opportunity in the 6th minute from a counter. Chencho crossed the ball inside the box from the right flank. Gyeltshen Zangpo, the goalkeeper, came out of his line to collect the ball, but the ball was out of his reach. Armand, who was unmarked by the Paro FC defender, leapt tall, but he failed to hit the target, and the ball went for a goal kick. Paro FC players came to a relieved halt after his header went out for the goal kick. Paro FC wins 3 games from 3 after defeating the citizens at Woochu Sports Arena The first half ended with Paro FC leading 1-0, but their relentless attack continued into the second half. Just two minutes after the break, Evans unleashed a blistering run on the right flank and triggered a powerful shot from a tight angle, sending the ball soaring into the net and doubling the lead for his team. Thimphu City FC struggled to find a response as they were thwarted by a solid defensive performance from Paro FC’s backline. The midfielders were relentless in their pressing and transition play, creating numerous opportunities for the forwards to exploit the opposition’s defence. In the 50th minute, Evan again used his pace and counter into Thimphu City FC’s penalty area and shot a powerful shot that hit the left bar and bounced back inside the ground. Phurpa Wangchuk collected the ball inside the box and hit another powerful shot, which hit the net, extending Paro FC’s lead to 3-0. Thimphu City FC’s hopes of staging a comeback seemed to fade away as they found it difficult to penetrate the well-organized defence. In the 59th minute, Chencho was brought down by the captain of Paro FC, Kinley Wangchuk, and was given a penalty after consulting with the VAR assistant. Armand, who has scored five goals for the citizens in his two appearances, stood up to take the spot kick. However, his shot was saved by Gyeltshen Zangpo, who went in the right direction. Chencho Gyeltshen had a day to forget as he visits his previous club Paro FC’s Evans proved to be the standout performer of the match. In the 82nd minute, he capitalized on the final goal of the match, pouncing on a loose ball to complete his brace and further cement Paro FC’s dominance with a commanding 4-0 lead. Despite the scoreline, Thimphu City FC did not give up and tried to salvage some pride with a late surge, but their efforts were in vain as the home team’s goalkeeper and defence stood firm, denying any chance of a consolation goal. With a score line of 4-0, this is the first time between the two teams, that Thimphu City FC has lost by the biggest goal margin over the years.  The final whistle blew, and Paro FC celebrated a convincing victory over their rival, stamping their authority as a serious contender for this season’s championship.  In the Press Conference, Paro FC head coach, Mr. Puspalal, said that the win over the city will boost the morale of the Paro FC players as they prepare for the AFC Cup and added that he did not expect that his team would win by that goal margin. On the other hand, the head coach of Thimphu City FC, Mr. Ngawang Dendup, stated that they will have to regroup and come back stronger in their pursuit of glory for the remainder of the season.

Right from the kickoff, Druk Lhayul FC showed their intent to secure their first win of the season. They got their first shot on target of the match right after the kickoff from their striker, Myanmar Anug Khaw Naing, which was saved by the goalkeeper. However, in the 17th minute, he opened his Druk Lhayul FC account by scoring with a clinical finish, giving his team the early lead. Ugyen Academy FC tried coming back into the game with lots of forward passes, but they were unable to break the defence of Druk Lhayul FC. On the other hand, a blessing in disguise came for Druk Lhayul FC as they got their second through Sonam Jordan (his second for Druk Lhayul FC) after he confidently placed the ball in an empty net after the goalkeeper of Ugyen Academy FC failed to clear his ball far. The first half ended 2-0 in favour of Druk Lhayul FC, but the drama had just begun. Anug Khaw Naing scored his first goal of the season and Sonam Jordan scored his second for Druk Lhayul FC As the second half kicked off, both teams intensified their attacks, eager to claim victory. However, Ugyen Academy FC responded with resilience and started building up their front three with lots of short passes, trying to break down the defence. They were rewarded for their hard work with a penalty after reviewing the VAR, in the 54th minute after Tandin Dorji was held inside by the opposition defensive midfielder, “Takuya”. Kelzang Jigme stood up for the penalty and hit a powerful shot, Tshering Dendup drove the right way and got a finger on it, but the shot was too powerful for him to stop it. However,  in the 59th minute, Druk Lhayul FC gave a swift reply through Alui Oradiran and extended Druk Lhayul FC’s lead with a composed free header from a freekick from the mid-third. However, Druk Lhayul FC wasn’t finished yet. Unmarked Anug Khaw scored his second of the night in the 61st minute from inside the box, showcasing his striking prowess and further extending the lead to 4-1. The super sub of the game, Phub Dorji, made his debut for Druk Lhayul FC with a goal right after he came on in the 70th minute, making the scoreline unable to reach the mighties. Tenzin Dorji of Druk Lhayul FC becomes the third person to get a red card this season after clearing the ball with his hands from goal As the clock ticked down, the game seemed to be slipping away from Ugyen Academy FC until they were given another penalty after consulting VAR. Kelzang Jigme stepped up again, converting another penalty in the 77th minute, keeping his team in the fight. On the contrary, he scored all three spot kicks that were given to him for this incident, as both of his previous two conversions were ruled out because the players got inside the penalty area before the ball was kicked. Ugyen Academy FC, despite the uphill battle, displayed remarkable fighting spirit and yet was awarded a penalty, and Tenzin Dorji was shown a straight red card for clearing off a ball with his hand from the goal line. Kelzang Jigme, who scored the previous two penalties, completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot in the 82nd minute, reducing the deficit to 5-3. The late stages of the match were frenetic, with both teams pushing forward relentlessly. In the 87th minute, Phub Dorji made his presence felt for the team and scored his second goal of the match, seemingly putting the result beyond doubt with Druk Lhayul FC leading 6-3. However, Ugyen Academy FC continued to show their resilience and spirit, putting lots of pressure on the defensive third of the opposition, and in additional time, Santa managed to find the net, bringing the score to 6-4 at full time. Druk Lhayul FC celebrated their first win of the season thrillingly, while Ugyen Academy FC left the field with their heads held high, having shown immense determination and fighting spirit throughout the match.

In a thrilling encounter between BFF Academy and Thimphu Raven FC, it was BFF Academy who emerged victorious with a brilliant performance in the second half, securing the first three crucial points in the BoB Bhutan Premier League. The match began with both teams showing their determination and skill on the field, but it was BFF Academy that showcased its brilliance in ball possession and was the team who had the upper hand in the first half, creating numerous scoring opportunities and testing the Thimphu Raven FC defence and goalkeeper on many occasions. Thimphu Raven FC, on the other hand, were a different team than they were against the team that played against Tensung FC and were more focused and organized in the defence line. They managed to keep a clean sheet with some outstanding saves from their goalkeeper, ensuring the deadlock remained unbroken at halftime. Thimphu Raven FC made several changes in the first XI BFF Academy kept the same starting XI which they face Druk Lhayul FC As the second half began, BFF Academy came out with renewed energy and determination, pushing forward with a more aggressive attacking approach. Their efforts bore fruit in the 66th minute when Pema Zangpo, the central half of the team, displayed his exceptional prowess in front of the goal, finding the back of the net with a powerful strike outside the box with an exceptional buildup. This breakthrough goal ignited the spirits of Thimphu Raven FC, which was pressing way too much upfront. The captain, Pema, wasn’t content with just one goal; he already knew the situation of the opposition goalkeeper, who was always way too high from his area. Pema tried his luck with his powerful shot from his own half, and the goalkeeper was nowhere to stop his strike. Pema Zangpo once again showcased his scoring ability. His brace put BFF Academy in a comfortable position, but they were not done yet.n’t Thimphu Raven FC vs BFF Academy Thimphu Raven FC vs BFF Academy In the 84th minute, BFF Academy was awarded a penalty after consulting the VAR, presenting them with an excellent opportunity to further extend their lead. Pema Zangpo, displaying nerves of steel, calmly stepped up and converted the penalty, completing his impressive hat trick and solidifying his position as the hero of the match. As the match reached the final 5 minutes of actual stoppage time, Thimphu Raven FC got two important chances for a consolation, but it was the goalkeeper of BFF Academy who showed his composure and stopped both of the shots. The drama continued and did not end there. In the additional minutes of the second half, Kinzang Tenzin, another standout player for BFF Academy, managed to get on the scoresheet with a superb finish. His goal was the icing on the cake, sealing the match with an emphatic 4-0 victory for BFF Academy. The final whistle blew, and BFF Academy celebrated a well-deserved win. 

Transport United FC secured their historic first win against RTC FC in a thrilling encounter at RTC’s home ground. The match ended with a scoreline of 2-1 in favour of Transport United FC, showcasing their determination and resilience on the field.  In the starting line-up, the new foreign player of Transport United FC, Mosses Gyabaan, started, while ex-forward of Transport United FC, Dilip Mongar started for RTC FC. The game kicked off with high intensity as both teams looked eager to claim the three points. Transport United FC lost both legs last season against RTC FC, and this year, with a different squad and a different head coach, they were determined to break that unwanted record from the opening minutes. Both teams tried several shots from far, but it was the debutant Moses who broke the deadlock in the 7th minute. He collected the ball from Tsendas flick and shot a powerful low attempt that found the right corner of the net, demonstrating his goal-scoring prowess. In the opening half, RTC FC dominated possession with 58%, and they were building the game from the right flank of the field. However, Transport United FC was more focused on the traditional way of playing football, with lots of long balls and counters. The opening half ended with a scoreline of 1-0 in favour of Transport United FC, thanks to their debutant goal in the opening minutes. A debutants dream Jigme opens his RTC FC account to equalize in the second half Jigdrel Wangchuk celebrates with his teammates after scoring the winning goal. However, RTC FC refused to back down and launched a series of spirited attacks in search of an equalizer. Their persistence paid off in the 56th minute when Jigme Tshultrim capitalized on a defensive lapse and slotted home a well-placed shot after a beautiful cross from Karma Sonam from the right flank. The scores were now level, and the match became even more intense, with both teams fighting tooth and nail for supremacy. As the clock ticked down, both sides continued to create chances. RTC FC tried everything to lead, but Transport United FC’s defence stood firm and resilient. With the game hanging in the balance, however, it was Jigdrel Wangchuk of Transport United who eventually found the breakthrough in the 85th minute, They managed to pierce through RTC FC’s defence. A swift and incisive attack led to the winning goal, leaving the RTC fans stunned.  The final whistle blew, and Transport United FC celebrated their historic victory against RTC FC.

In an exhilarating football clash at the Paro Woochu Sports Arena, Paro FC emerged victorious with a stunning 3-1 triumph over Tensung FC. Paro FC had five changes in the starting eleven as compared to their first starting eleven. Meanwhile, Tensung FC made a change in their defensive line by dropping their captain, Sonam Phuntsho, due to an injury. Paro FC Starting line up Tensung FC starting line up Right from the kickoff, both teams displayed remarkable intensity, but it was Paro FC who drew first blood with a well-timed goal from striker Kazou in the 7th minute after a sublime cross was made by Evans inside the box. Undeterred, Tensung FC fought back valiantly, managing to temporarily level the score with a brilliant strike of their own in the next two minutes from their striker, who collected the ball inside the penalty area and launced a powerful strike. His shot hit Lobzang Chogyel’s thigh, which was then deflected inside the net, making his goalkeeper go the other way. The hat-trick hero Thinley Wangdi scores an equalizer and celebrates with his teammates Paro FC exhibited their attacking prowess, putting relentless pressure on the Tensung FC defence. In the 15th minute, Kazuo Homma, their striker, hit the woodwork from close range. Their relentless efforts paid off in the 29th minute when Evans was pushed from behind by Leki Tandin. After consulting the VAR, Paro FC was given the penalty, Tensung FC player argued for the decision but was unsuccessful. Initially, Kazuo’s shootout was saved by Tobgay, however, his clearance landed on Phurpa Wangchuk’s feet, who was one step ahead of Tensung FC, who, then again crossed back inside the box. Kazuo comfortably slotted the ball inside the net, giving Paro FC a lead at the half-hour mark.  Kazou Homma netted his hattrick of the match in the 31st minute from a well-delivered ball from the corner by Kinga Wangchuk. The first half ended in favour of Paro FC, with a scoreline of 3-1.  The second half witnessed an intensified battle as both sides pushed harder to gain an advantage. Despite Tensung FC’s spirited efforts to stage a comeback, Paro FC’s defence held firm until the final whistle, cementing their well-deserved victory.