Bangladesh made a confident start to the Women’s Kabaddi World Cup 2025 on Monday, defeating African champions Uganda 42–22 in the tournament’s opening match at the Shaheed Sohrawardi Indoor Stadium in Mirpur. The hosts led 14–12 at half-time before pulling away decisively in the second half.
The match followed a colourful opening ceremony that filled the arena with local supporters. The stands were packed and the crowd maintained a lively “Bangladesh Bangladesh” chant throughout as the home side delivered a performance worthy of the occasion.
Uganda, competing in their first Women’s Kabaddi World Cup, posed an early challenge with their superior physicality. Bangladesh, however, held the edge in experience and tactical discipline, even though the first half remained tightly contested. The hosts played conservatively at the start, allowing Uganda to stay within reach.
Smriti Akter emerged as the standout performer for Bangladesh. Primarily a defender, she produced crucial points in key moments by stepping up in raids when her team struggled to create momentum. At one stage in the second half, Smriti was the only Bangladeshi player left on the court as the scores were level and Uganda briefly moved in front. She responded with a decisive do-or-die raid, removing two opponents and swinging the momentum back towards the hosts.
Bangladesh took full control thereafter. They forced two all-outs in the second half and outscored Uganda 28–10 in the final two quarters, turning a tense contest into a comfortable victory. The home side’s superior organisation and composure eventually proved too much for the African champions.
With the win secured, Bangladesh will face Germany on Tuesday at 5 pm in their second Group A match. Uganda return to action on Wednesday against Thailand as they attempt to bounce back from their opening defeat.
