International News

The Bhutan Football Federation (BFF) proudly congratulates the national women’s futsal team, the Dragon Girls, for securing a historic bronze medal at the inaugural SAFF Women’s Futsal Championship 2025–26, marking a significant milestone for Bhutanese women’s football and futsal on the regional stage. Bhutan delivered a commendable tournament campaign, finishing third overall with 11 points from six matches. The Dragon Girls recorded three wins, two draws, and one defeat, scoring 18 goals and conceding 13, underlining their attacking intent, resilience, and growing tactical maturity throughout the competition. Bhutan opened their campaign with a hard-fought 1–1 draw against Pakistan, followed by an impressive 3–3 draw against eventual champions Bangladesh. The team then gathered momentum with convincing victories over Sri Lanka (5–1) and the Maldives (4–2), before producing one of the standout performances of the tournament with a 2–1 win over India, who later finished as runners-up. Bhutan’s only defeat came against Nepal in a closely contested 5–3 match, which did little to diminish an otherwise outstanding campaign. Deki Lhazon tops the goalscoring chart for Bhutan Individually, Deki Lhazom emerged as one of Bhutan’s key attacking players, finishing the tournament with four goals, while the collective effort and unity of the squad remained the defining strength behind the bronze-medal success. Reflecting on the achievement, team captain Sonam Lhamo expressed pride in the team’s journey and performance: “Winning the bronze medal in the first-ever SAFF Women’s Futsal Championship is a proud moment for all of us. We believed in ourselves, fought together in every match, and showed that Bhutan can compete confidently at the regional level. This achievement belongs to the entire team and everyone who has supported us.” Bangladesh were crowned champions of the tournament, with India finishing as runners-up, while Bhutan claimed third place ahead of Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives. Beyond the podium finish, the championship provided invaluable international exposure and learning opportunities for the Dragon Girls, many of whom competed in a regional futsal tournament of this magnitude for the first time. The experience gained from this competition will play a vital role in the continued development of women’s futsal in Bhutan.

The intensive three-day Capacity Building for Administrators under the FIFA Women’s Development Programme, led by Ms. Natcha Tarateerasarn and Ms. Pema Choden Tshering, both Women’s Football experts, reached its successful conclusion today, marking a significant milestone in the professionalisation of football management in the country. The final day was packed with critical insights into governance, followed by a celebratory closing ceremony that honoured the dedication of participants from across the football community. The final day commenced with a focus on the ethical foundations of the sport. Mr. Tshewang Tashi, the Bhutan Football Federation (BFF) Security Head and Integrity Officer, led the first session on Integrity and Security. His presentation underscored the importance of maintaining the highest ethical standards and ensuring a secure environment for the growth of the game.The workshop then moved toward the technicalities of professional club management. Miss Natcha from FIFA, alongside Ms. Kuenzang Choden, delivered a comprehensive session on Club Licensing. This segment provided administrators with the roadmap necessary to meet international standards, ensuring that local clubs are built on sustainable and professional foundations.The educational portion of the day wrapped up with a vital presentation on Safeguarding. Miss Natcha returned to the podium, joined by Mr. Nidup Gyeltshen, to emphasise the collective responsibility of administrators in protecting all participants, especially youth, within the football ecosystem. Ms. Malti, the Finance officer of BFF participating in the Ice break session As the technical sessions concluded, the floor was opened to the participants. Many shared heartfelt reflections on their three-day journey, citing the practical knowledge gained and the valuable networking opportunities provided.“These three days have not only equipped us with better management tools but have also strengthened our commitment to the sport,” said Chimmi of RTC FC. “We are grateful for the expertise shared by both local and FIFA representatives, which will greatly support our work in advancing women’s football.” The afternoon transition into the official closing ceremony was marked by a sense of pride. Two prominent figures in Bhutanese football graced the event: Mr Hishey Tshering, President of Thimphu City FC and a member of the BFF Executive Committee, and Mr Jigme Tshewang, President of Transport United FC and a member of the BFF Executive Committee.The Chief Guests presented certificates to the participants, recognising their active engagement and successful completion of the program.In his closing remarks, Mr. Hishey Tshering offered inspiring words to the gathered administrators. He emphasised that the knowledge gained over the last three days is a powerful tool, but its true value will be seen in how it is implemented within their respective clubs and organisations to elevate the standard of Bhutanese football.The program concluded on a high note with a traditional Tashi Labey, a symbolic dance of celebration and well-wishing, followed by a final group photograph to commemorate the bond formed between the administrators and mentors.As the administrators return to their clubs, they carry with them new strategies, a stronger network, and a renewed vision for the future of football in Bhutan.