Teenage football sensation Alpi Akter continues to shine after a stellar SAFF Under-19 Women’s Championship, proving that football can change lives. The Panchagarh-born striker returned from Nepal with the tournament top scorer award (7 goals) and player of the tournament trophy, showing her determination to succeed.
Her drive was evident on 10 February when Rajshahi Stars FC thrashed Sadyapushkarini Youth Sporting Club 8-0 in the domestic Women’s League at Birshreshtha Shaheed Sepoy Mostafa Kamal Stadium. Alpi scored a hat-trick, bringing her league tally to 28 goals in nine matches, cementing her reputation as a “goal machine.”
Alpi’s journey has not been easy. Growing up in Ward 4, Boda Municipality, her father Ataur Rahman struggled to support the family through a small tea and biscuit stall. Early criticism from society and doubts from her own family made football seem like a luxury. Her elder brother became her greatest supporter. “My brother has always supported me. Now they are proud of my achievements. At first people said bad things, but once they saw I wanted to do well, they understood,” she said.
Initially a goalkeeper, Alpi switched to attack and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming Rangpur division top striker, earning a call-up to the Under-16 national camp, and eventually stepping onto the international stage under coach Peter Butler. Reflecting on her finishing, she said, “I used to lack confidence when shooting. After practising, I now feel every shot could be a goal.”
Off the pitch, Alpi continues to face financial challenges but remains focused. “Everything is possible through football, from family to changing your own life. I want to go far and play well for my country,” she affirmed.
A Lionel Messi fan, Alpi also idolises national player Hamza Chowdhury. She balances football with her studies and is preparing for the SSC exams. Her focus now is on helping Rajshahi Stars secure the Women’s League title. “We will give our best so the league trophy stays with Rajshahi,” she added.
