Building the Future of Bhutanese Football: The BFF Youth League, 2025 concludes

The curtain has come down on the highly anticipated 2025 BFF Youth League, marking another successful chapter for grassroots football in Bhutan. The tournament, which kicked off on July 1st for the boys and July 3rd for the girls, once again showcased the brightest young talents from across the country. This year’s edition not only delivered thrilling football but also emphasised the growing community support for youth development, highlighted by the presence of special guests, including FIFA’s Mr. Eric and Bhutan Football Federation’s Technical Director,r Mr. Chencho, who were on hand to present certificates and honour the outstanding performers at the finals.

The boys’ competitions featured competitive action in both the Under-14 and Under-16 categories, with ten teams participating in each division. The Under-14 semifinals saw a narrow victory for Transport United FC, who edged out Southern City FC 1-0, while Paro FC stormed into the final with an emphatic 4-0 win over Samtse FC. The final proved to be a thriller, as Paro FC battled hard to overcome Transport United FC 3-2, lifting the Under-14 title.

In the Under-16 category, Thimphu City FC delivered a standout performance by defeating Ugyen Academy 3-2 in a gripping semifinal, while Tendruk Academy edged out Transport United FC with a 2-1 win. The final between Thimphu City FC and Tendruk Academy was closely contested, with Thimphu City FC emerging victorious by a 2-1 scoreline to claim the Under-16 championship.

The girls’ division featured four teams in the Under-14 category and five teams in the Under-16 category. With no semifinals held, the top two teams advanced directly to the finals in both age groups.

In the Under-14 girls’ final, Transport United Ladies FC edged out Paro FC 1-0 in a tightly contested match to lift the trophy. Meanwhile, in the Under-16 final, Ugyen Academy WFC proved too strong for Transport United Ladies, securing a convincing 3-0 victory and taking home the title.

The Youth League also honoured outstanding individual performers who shone brightest throughout the tournament.

In the Under-14 boys’ category, Paro FC dominated the awards. Karma Tshering Gyeltshen was named the Most Valuable Player, Sonam Rinchen finished as the top scorer with six goals, and Sonam Choda was recognised as the Best Goalkeeper for his heroic saves.

In the Under-16 boys’ category, Tendruk Academy’s Karma Jigme Wangyel took home the MVP award, while Sayon Lama of Transport United FC won the Top Scorer title with ten goals. Tendruk Academy’s Kinley Nenda was deservedly awarded Best Goalkeeper after a string of impressive performances.

For the girls’ category, Tenzin Etsuko Wangmo from Transport United Ladies was named U-14 MVP, while Thinley Yangden, also from Transport United, secured the Top Scorer title. Sonam Yangchen completed a clean sweep for Transport United by winning Best Goalkeeper.

In the U-16 girls’ division, Ugyen Academy WFC’s Tendi Wangmo claimed MVP honours, Sonam Yeshi Choden finished as Top Scorer, and Tenzin Yuden was awarded Best Goalkeeper, marking a dominant showing for the team.

These individual accolades not only highlight the exceptional talent present in Bhutan’s youth ranks but also play a crucial role in motivating young players. Awards like MVP, Top Scorer, and Best Goalkeeper help identify future stars who could progress to national teams or professional clubs. They also inspire young athletes to remain committed, work harder, and strive for further success.

The BFF Youth League continues to serve as a critical platform for nurturing young footballers while reinforcing values like teamwork, discipline, and respect. By recognising both team triumphs and individual brilliance, the competition fosters a positive football culture and promotes sustained grassroots engagement across Bhutan.

As the 2025 BFF Youth League concludes, it leaves behind memories of great matches, rising stars, and a hopeful future for Bhutanese football.