Bhutan Football

SAFF U16 championshp

The SAFF U16 Championship is Set to Make a Grand Comeback to the Illustrious Changlimithang National Stadium After a Prolonged Absence.

Changlimithang National Stadium, with its capacity to accommodate thousands of passionate fans, is no stranger to hosting remarkable football events. Over the years, it has witnessed many enthralling matches and unforgettable moments that have etched themselves into the annals of football history and it is also a home ground to 6 teams of Bhutan Premier League club. Its sprawling stands, surrounded by breathtaking mountain vistas, create an ambience that enhances the overall football experience, making it a cherished destination for players and fans alike. The SAFF U16 Championship provides a unique platform for young football talents from South Asian nations to showcase their skills and represent their countries with pride. This tournament not only promotes healthy competition but also fosters camaraderie and friendship among the participating nations. Fixtures Of SAFF U16 Championship, 2023 This year Nepal, India, Maldives, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Bhutan are participating in the Championship, which will kick off on 1st September 2023 and the finals will be played on 10th September 2023. The opening match of the championship will be played between two times winners, “Bangladesh” and 4 times winners, “India.” Meanwhile, Bhutan will face Pakistan in the second match of the day. For Bhutan, the opportunity to host this esteemed tournament is a matter of immense pride. Football holds a special place in the hearts of the Bhutanese people, and our passion for the sport is evident during every match played at the Changlimithang National Stadium.

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BoB Bhutan Premier League

The Final Match Of Match Week One Ended in a Thrilling Draw

In a thrilling encounter in the BoB Bhutan Premier League 2023, Druk Lhayul FC and BFF Academy played out an intense and showed tremendous determination and skill throughout the ninety minutes only to end in a draw, leaving fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle. BFF Academy displayed early attacking intent, creating several chances and testing the opposition’s defence. In the ninth minute, Jigme Namgyel was brought down inside the penalty area by Jigme Phuntsho. Initially, the referee told the players to continue the game but after consulting with VAR, they were awarded a penalty and Jigme Phuntsho was shown a yellow card for his reckless challenge. The captain of BFF Academy, Pema Zangpo stood up to take the penalty against the goalkeeper of Druk Lhyul FC, who is also the national goalkeeper of Bhutan Senior National team. Pema Zangpo triggered a powerful shot on the left bottom corner in which Tshering Dendup drove the right way but his shot was too much for him to stop,  which put the BFF Academy in the lead. However, Druk Lhayul FC refused to be daunted and fought back with a ferocity of their own. They tried to keep the ball in possession their relentless pressure finally paid off when their left winger, Sonam Jordan took a long shot putting the ball behind,  equalizing the score. Meanwhile, in the additional minute of the first half, Pema Zangpo nearly put BFF Academy up front when his far attempt hit the woodwork. The opening half ended with the goal levelled. Druk Lhayul FC players celebrates as they scored the first goal of the season. BFF Academy took a lead through their Captain The second half witnessed end-to-end action, with both teams refusing to back down. Druk Lhayul FC managed to take the lead in the more through a blistering counter-attack from the left flank, catching the opposition defence off-guard. Lekpai Dorji collected the ball from Khando Dorji and triggered a beautiful shot from 40 yards which hit the net of the top left corner. But BFF Academy responded almost immediately in the 80th minute from Kinley Penjor. As the clock ticked down, the intensity of the match reached its peak, and both teams came close to finding a winner. Jigme Phuntsho was once again caught in the defence line of Druk Lhayul FC as he made another reckless challenge on Kinzang Tenzin and was shown a second yellow card for him, which led him to walk down the tunnel early. BFF Academy came close in finding the winner taking advantage of the one-man-down Druk Lhayul FC but Tshering Dendup saved a few of the shots which was a hard-fought battle that ended with a shared point. Currently, Transport United FC leads the points table on goal difference with Paro FC, Thimphu City and Tensung FC. Druk Lhayul FC and BFF Academy are levels on point at 5th and 6th respectively and the rest of the clubs are yet to earn a point.

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Thimphu Raven FC vs Tensung FC

A Good Start for Tensung FC in BoB Bhutan Premier League, 2023

In a scintillating display of football prowess, Tensung FC asserted their dominance over Thimphu Raven FC with an emphatic 3-0 victory in the thrilling encounter at Changlimithang Stadium during the BoB Bhutan Premier League 2023. The two teams that qualified from the Pepsi Bhutan Premier League, 2023, met yet again at Changlimithang for their opening match of the BoB Bhutan Premier League, 2023. With a strong lineup for both teams and several new signings starting on both sides, from the opening whistle, both teams showcased their hunt for victory; however, Tensung FC set the tempo, dictating play and demonstrating their intent to secure a dominant performance as Thimphu Raven FC were sloppy with the ball.   Tensung FC’s swift attack began to trouble Thimphu Raven’s defence, weaving intricate passing patterns and making piercing runs into the final third. It wasn’t until half an hour passed before their efforts bore fruit when the man of the match of today’s match,Mr. Tshering Tashi’s stunning free-kick was nowhere to be stopped by Thimphu Raven FC’s teams, putting Tensung in the lead at the break. Tshering Tashi scores his brace after he collects a loose ball the the opposition goalkeeper In the second half, Thimphu Raven tried to muster a response, but Tensung FC’s solid defensive line stood resolute, intercepting passes and breaking down attacks. The midfield maestros controlled the game’s rhythm, distributing the ball with precision and supporting both the attack and defence seamlessly.   Tensung FC’s second goal was from the man who put them ahead when Thimphu Raven FC’s goalkeeper made a blunder while clearing the ball, which landed right on Tshering Tashi’s feet, and he showed his experience and composure and slotted the ball behind the net. With a two-goal cushion, Tensung further intensified their efforts, pinning Thimphu Raven deep in their half. The relentless pressure yielded yet another goal as they capitalized on a defensive lapse, converting a well-executed loop ball by Thinley Wangdi and extending their lead.   As the final whistle echoed through the stadium as the shower poured down from heaven, Tensung FC celebrated a convincing 3-0 triumph, displaying not only their attacking prowess but also their defensive discipline and teamwork.    Tomorrow, Druk Lhayul FC is going to take on BFF Academy. FC

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Transport UTD FC vs UA FC

Transport United FC Crumbles the Mighties in a 7 – 1 Victory.

In a highly intense game between two of the top six teams of last year’s BoB Bhutan Premier League, Transport United FC came out on top as Kinley Dorji and co. had a dream start as they hammered the visitors.    In the opening half, Ugyen Academy FC dominated possession, showcasing their high press style with immense pressure up front, but was unable to find the net. However, their winger was brought down in the penalty area, and they were awarded a penalty after the referee consulted the VAR. Jigme Kelzang stood up firmly to take the penalty and slotted the ball into the back of the net. On the other end, in the 18th minute, Dicka was brought down, which led to a penalty for Transport United FC after consulting the VAR again, in which Phurpa Tenzin went for a low, powerful kick, sending the goalkeeper the other way and levelling the score. Phurpa Tenzin added his brace in the dying minutes of the first half when he rounded the goalkeeper and executed it perfectly behind the net, giving his team a lead at the break.   As the second half kicked off, Transport United showed no signs of slowing down. Their debutant, Dicka, stood tall and headed a towering header, giving them a 2-goal lead in the 47th minute. Then in the 49th minute, Jigdrel, the man of the match of today’s match, opened his account after Tsenda Dorji fed him a beautiful assist after the defense and goalkeeper miscommunicated and made a blunder. Jigdrel continued to be a thorn in Ugyen Academy’s side, netting another powerful shot from outside the box showcasing his clinical finishing and ability to find spaces left the opposition’s defense helpless. On the opposition side, Santa Kumar missed an absolute sitter, making the team even more devastated. Meanwhile, Jigdrel completed his well-deserved hat trick after dancing through the defense line to make it six for Transport United FC. Transport United FC made it 7 in the additional minutes’ thanks to their substitute, Migmar, who was unmarked and slotted home the final goal of the match.   In the press conference, the head coach of Ugyen Academy FC, Ms. Denka, stated that the boys were confident in the opening half, but due to certain circumstances, they were demotivated in the second half. She added that most of his players are inexperienced, and due to that, they conceded the goals. On the other hand, the head coach of Transport United FC, Mr. Kinley Dorji, stated that he is content with the performance of the boys and added that in the opening half, he was observing the tactics, and in the second half, he changed a few of the tactics that led to goals.   The next match is going to be played between Thimphu Raven FC and Tensung FC at Changlimithang National Stadium at 6 p.m.

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Thimphu City FC

Thimphu City FC Clinched a Commanding 4-0 Victory Over RTC FC.

In a highly anticipated clash between Thimphu City FC and RTC FC, Thimphu City FC delivered a scintillating performance to secure an impressive 4-0 victory over RTC FC in the thrilling encounter at the BoB Bhutan Premier League.  From the opening whistle, the runner-up of last season’s BoB Bhutan Premier League, Thimphu City FC, displayed a determination that was evident in their attacking prowess. Swift ball movements and cohesive teamwork allowed them to control the tempo of the game, putting the RTC FC defense under immense pressure. The breakthrough came early in the first half when Thimphu City’s debutant, “Armand Readoum,” found the back of the net with a clinical finish, sending the home crowd into a frenzy. Thimphu City FC vs RTC FC RTC FC fought back valiantly, attempting to regain their composure, but Thimphu City FC’s defense of Tenzin Norbu and Dorjis held firm, denying any clear-cut opportunities. Their solid backline and timely interceptions frustrated RTC FC’s attacking efforts. Thimphu City’s midfield showcased remarkable control over the game, creating opportunities and dictating play with their accurate passing. Meanwhile, Armand added his second of the night    As the second half commenced, Thimphu City intensified its attacking onslaught. With precision passing and incisive movement, they added to their lead with two more well-executed goals from Armand, leaving RTC FC’s defense in disarray. Despite their best efforts, RTC FC struggled to regain control of the match, with Thimphu City’s defense thwarting every attempt. The hat trick for Armand came in the minute when he calmly slotted the ball behind the net from the penalty spot after Dorji was brought down by Kinley Gyeltshen and was also sent off for his action.  The final nail in the coffin came in the 80th minute after a beautiful cross from the right flank was made by Dawa Tshering, which connected the man of the match, Armand,” and headed inside the net softly. Besides a resounding victory over RTC FC, a few of their academy players were given little playing time in the final minutes of the game, making their debut in the Bhutan Premier League.  The head coach of RTC FC, Mr. Ugyen Dorji, stated during the press conference that he didn’t anticipate losing the game and added that it was their first game of the season in which his players lacked a little coordination and because of the new turf, they couldn’t control the ball. On the other hand, the head coach of Thimphu City FC, Mr. Ngawang Dhendup, stated that it’s a good start for the season and was in full praise for his players performances and his new signing, Armand Beadoum.   The third match of the BoB Bhutan Premier League, 2023, is going to be played between Transport United FC and Ugyen Academy FC at Changlimithang National Stadium at 6 p.m.

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BoB Bhutan Premier League

BoB Bhutan Premier League, 2023 kicks off: A New Chapter in Bhutanese Football

The much-awaited BoB Bhutan Premier League 2023 has finally arrived, bringing with it a fresh wave of excitement and anticipation for football enthusiasts across the country. As the top-tier professional football league in Bhutan, this year’s edition promises to showcase the talents of Bhutanese footballers and elevate the sport to new heights. The opening match was played between the reigning champion, “Paro FC” and “Namlha FC”. Once again after a long time, the Changlimithang National Stadium was live with fans erupting with cheers for the teams. The reigning champions started their campaign with a strong starting eleven including all their international players but one noticeable missing was their captain Kinley Penjor. Paro FC dominated the whole game. Kazou scored his opening goal in the 11th minute and added his brace in the 27th minute to hand the lead for Paro FC at the break by 2 goals. Paro FC made four changes during the break. On the other hand, Namlha FC made two changes. Kazuo scored his hat trick of the night on 56thminute and scored his haul in the final minutes of the game and was named the man of the match of the game. During the post-match press conference, the head coach of Namlha FC, Dr. Swapan Biswas Kumar stated that his team’s poor performance in the opening match of the BoB Bhutan Premier League, 2023 was marked by the lack of training facilities and lack of training time of the team. On the other hand, Mr. Puspalal Sharma, the head coach of Paro FC stated that he is happy with three points and is content with the class shown by his boys.   Kazou Homma of Paro FC celebrates with his captains jersey number The BoB Bhutan Premier League holds great significance in the development of football in Bhutan. It serves as a vital platform for aspiring players to showcase their skills, while also fostering a spirit of healthy competition among the participating teams. Moreover, the league’s growth over the years has garnered increased attention and support, both locally and internationally. This has not only raised the profile of Bhutanese football but has also helped in nurturing a footballing culture within the country. The 2023 edition of the BoB Bhutan Premier League features a diverse range of teams from different regions of Bhutan. Each team brings its unique style of play and a dedicated fan base. Some of the prominent clubs participating in this year’s league include defending champions Paro FC, Thimphu City FC, Transport United FC, Ugyen Academy FC, Namlha FC, Tensung FC, Thimphu Raven FC and BFF Academy. Kazuo scores 4 past Namlha FC. The kickoff of the BoB Bhutan Premier League 2023 signifies the beginning of an exhilarating journey for Bhutanese football. With a rich talent pool, passionate fan support, and a growing football culture, this year’s league promises to be a captivating spectacle. As the matches unfold, the league will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the Bhutanese football landscape, inspiring future generations and further elevating the sport in the country.

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New Astro Turf of Changlimithang National Stadium inaugurated

The New Astro Turf of Changlimithang National Stadium Inaugurated

𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑃𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐵ℎ𝑢𝑡𝑎𝑛 𝐹𝑜𝑜𝑡𝑏𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝐹𝑒𝑑𝑒𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝐷𝑎𝑠ℎ𝑜 𝑈𝑔𝑒𝑛 𝑇𝑠𝑒𝑐ℎ𝑢𝑝 𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑢𝑔𝑢𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑛𝑒𝑤 𝑎𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑜𝑡𝑢𝑟𝑓 𝑜𝑓 𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑙𝑖𝑚𝑖𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔 𝑁𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛𝑎𝑙 𝑆𝑡𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑢𝑚 𝑡𝑜𝑑𝑎𝑦. 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑢𝑔𝑢𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑐𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑚𝑜𝑛𝑦 𝑤𝑎𝑠 𝑓𝑜𝑙𝑙𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑑 𝑏𝑦 𝑎𝑛 𝑒𝑥ℎ𝑖𝑏𝑖𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑚𝑎𝑡𝑐ℎ 𝑏𝑒𝑡𝑤𝑒𝑒𝑛 𝑃𝑟𝑖𝑚𝑒 𝑀𝑖𝑛𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑟 11(𝑙𝑒𝑑 𝑏𝑦 𝑃𝑟𝑖𝑚𝑒 𝑀𝑖𝑛𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑟 𝐷𝑎𝑠ℎ𝑜 𝐷𝑟. 𝐿𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑦 𝑇𝑠ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑔) 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑃𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒𝑛𝑡 11(𝐿𝑒𝑑 𝑏𝑦 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑝𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐵ℎ𝑢𝑡𝑎𝑛 𝐹𝑜𝑜𝑡𝑏𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝐹𝑒𝑑𝑒𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝐷𝑎𝑠ℎ𝑜 𝑈𝑔𝑒𝑛 𝑇𝑠𝑒𝑐ℎ𝑢𝑝).  𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑛𝑒𝑤 𝑎𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑜𝑡𝑢𝑟𝑓 𝑖𝑠 𝑓𝑢𝑛𝑑𝑒𝑑 𝑏𝑦 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐹𝐼𝐹𝐴 𝐹𝑜𝑟𝑤𝑎𝑟𝑑 𝑃𝑟𝑜𝑗𝑒𝑐𝑡.

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Football for school

Football For Schools(F4S) Program Launched In Bhutan

The Bhutan Football Federation and the Department of Education Programmes under the Ministry of Education and Skills Development in collaboration with FIFA, launched the FIFA Football for Schools(F4S) program at Changjiji Academy. FIFA Football for Schools Programme (F4S) is a large-scale initiative conducted by FIFA in partnership with UNESCO that aims to aid in empowering, growing, and educating about 700 million children. It seeks to make football more accessible to both boys and girls around the world by incorporating football activities into the education system, in partnership with relevant authorities and stakeholders. The program has been designed to promote targeted life skills and competencies through football and contribute to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and other priorities. The President of the Bhutan Football Federation Dasho Ugen Tsechup with the childrens. The closing ceremony of the three days program was graced by the President of the Bhutan Football President Dasho Ugen Tsechup, Mrs. Fatimata Sidbide, the Director of FIFA Football for Schools, Mr. Tashi Namgyal Director of the Department of Education programmes under the Ministry of Education and Skills Development, Mr.Ugyen Wangchhuk BFF General Secretary, club presidents, members and parents.

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Press Release

Bhutan Football Federation29th June 2023 𝐼𝑛 𝑐𝑜𝑙𝑙𝑎𝑏𝑜𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝐹𝐼𝐹𝐴, 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐵ℎ𝑢𝑡𝑎𝑛 𝐹𝑜𝑜𝑡𝑏𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝐹𝑒𝑑𝑒𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐷𝑒𝑝𝑎𝑟𝑡𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝐸𝑑𝑢𝑐𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑃𝑟𝑜𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑚𝑚𝑒𝑠, 𝑀𝑖𝑛𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑦 𝑜𝑓 𝐸𝑑𝑢𝑐𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑆𝑘𝑖𝑙𝑙𝑠 𝐷𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑙𝑜𝑝𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑤𝑖𝑙𝑙 𝑙𝑎𝑢𝑛𝑐ℎ 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐹𝐼𝐹𝐴 𝐹𝑜𝑜𝑡𝑏𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑆𝑐ℎ𝑜𝑜𝑙𝑠(𝐹4𝑆) 𝑝𝑟𝑜𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑚 𝑓𝑟𝑜𝑚 30𝑡ℎ 𝐽𝑢𝑛𝑒-2𝑛𝑑 𝐽𝑢𝑙𝑦 2023. The F4S seeks to make football more accessible to both boys and girls worldwide by incorporating football activities into the education system, in partnership with relevant authorities and stakeholders. The program has been designed to promote targeted life skills and competencies through football and contribute to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and other priorities.With a vision to educate, nurture, and empower children with valuable life skills and competencies through football, the Bhutan Football Federation has always provided as many kids as possible with the opportunity to play and acquire valuable life lessons via football through a variety of initiatives. Bhutan’s grassroots and youth football initiatives prioritise game promotion across the country in addition to player development and talent scouting.In addition to being one of the most practical and effective ways to engage kids interested in sports, schools in the districts are one of the main suppliers of players for the elite academies of the BFF. The F4S program will enable schools to address a variety of social issues in addition to making sure that football is accessible to all students without discrimination.Given the fact that many schools lack the tools and trained staff needed to deliver football activities, This program will help them support, deliver, and manage F4S activities in their schools and communities. While supporting the provision of football coaching and equipment to schools is the primary goal of this program, this program will also prioritize giving opportunities to all young children, opportunities for Coaches, Parents, and Educators to grow and prepare a sustainable relationship with stakeholders“This program is one of the biggest collaborations with the Department of Education Programmes under the Ministry of Education and Skills Development in recent years.” Yeshey Dorji, the head of the grassroots football division. “The launch of this event will bring together key stakeholders, government officials, educators, and football enthusiasts, all committed to fostering youth development through the beautiful game of football. This program will give all the children an opportunity to play football regardless of age and gender. This program will enable SSIs to develop their football know-how through e-learning and F4S mobile application.”“We firmly believe that introducing sports programs, such as the F4S, at the grassroots level, particularly in primary schools, is a step in the right direction. Children at this stage are naturally curious, respective and formative, making it an ideal time to introduce them to sports activities that can contribute to their overall development. The F4S program is unique in that it integrates football with education, creating an engaging and stimulating learning experience for children.” Tashi Namgyal, The Director, Department of Education Programmes.Three FIFA representatives will join the event and conduct a 3 days course for our school football coaches. A total of 32 School Sports Instructors from four regions under the recommendation of the regional managers of the Bhutan Football Federation, who are actively involved in the grassroots program are selected by the regional managers and 8 coaches from the Bhutan Football Federation will be attending the event.

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Reaching The Unreachable

The Bhutan Football Federation Grassroots Football Program The four-day Bhutan Football Federation Grassroots Program in one of the remote places in the country, “Merak and Sakteng,” ended yesterday. The program was conducted at Sakteng Lower Secondary School on the 10th and 11th of June. A total number of 184 kids from the Sakteng community took part in the program. Similarly, the program was also conducted at Merak on the 14th and 15th of June 2023 involving around 174 kids. The program was conducted under the guidance of Mr. Yeshey Dorji, Head of the Grassroots Football Division, assisted by Mr. Dorji Tenzin, Elite Grassroots Coach, Mr. Lhendup Dorji, Eastern Regional Manager, and volunteers from the school. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES OF THE PROGRAM To positively engage children in a fun, enjoyable, and inclusive football experience to learn and develop techniques and skills in football. To encourage children to play football and develop a love for the game from a very young age with fun and easy football activities. To promote the holistic development of children; friendship, respect, teamwork, healthy lifestyle, honesty, effort, and confidence. To promote the physical and mental health benefits of playing football. To give everyone an opportunity to play regardless of age, gender, social background etc… To take football to the remotest place. The program was conducted in collaboration with the Bhutan Olympic Committee.

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