The JFA U-14 Women’s National Championship will feature more district teams this year, with participation rising from 43 to 47.
The Bangladesh Football Federation has been running this tournament for the past 12 years with support from the Japan Football Association.
Japan, one of Asia’s strongest football nations, has worked closely with Bangladesh football for more than two decades. The tournament remains an important part of that partnership and helps develop young female footballers across the country.
This year’s competition begins tomorrow in Rajbari, Rangpur and Feni. The second phase will start on June 10 in Tangail, Jhenidah and Rajshahi.
Most venues will have eight teams divided into two groups of four. Rajshahi will have seven teams in two groups. Each team will play three matches in the group stage under a round robin format.
The top team from each group will compete for the zonal title. The six zonal champions and the best two runners up will move on to the final round.
BFF has not yet announced the venue or schedule for the final phase. BFF Women’s Wing Chairperson Mahfuza Akter Kiron spoke about the tournament at a press conference at BFF House on Thursday.
“Last year, the tournament was held in a knockout format. This time, it will be a round-robin league in the group stage. Participating teams used to receive Tk 25,000, but this year it has increased to Tk 45,000. Teams that qualify for the final round will also receive Tk 45,000 each. As the tournament duration has been extended slightly, we are receiving support from FIFA. That is why teams are being given more financial assistance.”
FIFA Connect registration problems had caused trouble in an earlier women’s football event. Gaibandha could not take part because of registration issues.
Kiron said BFF has already taken steps to avoid such problems this time. “Those who will play are already under FIFA Connect. Last year, in one district, one set of players was registered, but different players were on the field. That is why the team could not play. Those who are connected will definitely be able to participate.”
The federation also sees the JFA Cup as a major scouting platform. Five players from last year’s tournament are now training in the BFF camp.
BFF hopes this year’s event will also produce more future national team footballers.
