International News

The Bhutan Senior Women’s National Team is set to play against Team Bangladesh at Changlimithang Stadium in a FIFA International Women’s Friendly. The match is part of their preparation for the upcoming SAFF Women’s Championship. The Bhutan team has been training intensively for several weeks, alongside the ongoing BoB Women’s National League Qualifiers. Meanwhile, team Bangladesh arrived in the country yesterday and held their first training session. They had their official training today. A Pre-Match Press Conference took place today at the BFF Conference Room, where both coaches expressed their teams’ determination to win the match. The teams will face each other again on 27th July at Changlimithang Stadium.

The president of the Bhutan Football Federation Dasho Ugen Tsechup discussed the area of cooperation between the Royal Netherlands Football Association(KNVB) with Her Excellency Marisa Gerads, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Bhutan. The key areas of interest are as follows: National Coaching Staff Coach Education and Coaching(WorldCoaches approach) Capacity building of the vital functions and positions (referees, administrators, organizers) Exchange or sending Bhutan youngsters to get trained in the Netherlands(long stints) Knowledge upgrade in technology used in football development( training and infrastructures) Further development of girls and women football.

Excitement permeates the air in Bhutan as the Senior Women’s National team gears up for their second FIFA Friendlies after their first International Women’s Friendly Tournament in Saudi Arabia last year. Set to face Hong Kong: China on two occasions(31st March and 3rd April, the team is not only preparing for competitive matches but also a historic event – hosting a FIFA Friendlies at its home ground, the Changlimithang National Stadium since the pandemic. Hosting and playing the FIFA Friendlies for the women’s team is a significant step forward, showcasing the progress of women’s football in Bhutan. This milestone reflects the Bhutan Football Federation’s commitment to the development and recognition of women’s football. Despite Hong Kong: China holding a position 100 ranks above Bhutan in the FIFA/Coca-Cola Women’s Football Rankings, the upcoming matches will serve as the utmost test for the Senior Women’s National team. “Friendlies like these are crucial for popularizing women’s football in Bhutan and giving our players the exposure and experience they need,” said Ms. Pema Choden Tshering, Head of the Women’s Department and national team captain. “With a few new faces in the squad, our goal is to establish a strong foundation of expertise and exposure. I’m optimistic about our performance at home; I believe the girls will deliver an impressive display.” Under the guidance of a new head coach from England, the senior women’s squad will undergo rigorous training in the capital to ensure the best lineup takes the field and all the tactics are fully performed during the upcoming match. Ms. Nicola Demaine, the head coach of the senior national team sees the upcoming games against Hong Kong as more than just matches; they represent a crucial opportunity for her team to prepare for the SAFF tournament. “It’s a chance to measure ourselves against international opposition whilst trying out new tactics,” she says. “It will also be an opportunity to hand experience to some players who have had less exposure, as well as, hopefully, delivering a good performance for the fans.” Anticipation runs high among players and fans as the national team prepares to showcase their skills and passion for the game on the international stage. The FIFA Friendlies not only offer an opportunity for Bhutan’s senior women’s team to demonstrate their progress, determination, and unity but also catalyze the growth of women’s football in the country. Beyond the matches, this event also signifies the increasing recognition and support for women’s football in Bhutan, serving as a platform to inspire aspiring young athletes and promote gender equality in sports.

The Bhutan Women’s National Team is more than just a football squad; it’s a symbol of hope and inspiration for aspiring athletes across the nation.  Head Coach Ms. Nicola Demaine announced a 24-member Senior Women’s National Team, who are selected through various selection camp at Changlimithang Stadium last month from various clubs across the country. Bhutan Team for the Year, 2024 GoalKeepers: Kinzang Dema, Karma Yuden, Sangita Mongar. Defenders: Suk Maya Ghalley, Kinley Zangmo, Dorji Edon, Jamyang Choden, Kelzang Tshering Wangmo, karma Wangmo, Rigzin Wangmo, Sangay Dema, Tashi Wangmo. Midfielders: Sonam Choden, Sonam Lhamo, Ugyen Choden, Sangay Wangmo,  Pema Choden Tshering, Deki Yangdon. Forwards: Deki Lhazom, Yeshey Bidha, Tshering Yangden, Namgyel Dema, Tshering Lhaden, Sunita Rai. Head coach: Nicola Demaine