Bangladesh’s historic triumph in the inaugural SAFF Women’s Futsal Championship was celebrated in style today as the team was welcomed on an open-top bus upon their return to Dhaka.
Winning a first-ever title always carries a special excitement, and claiming victory in the tournament’s debut edition added extra significance for the players. After arriving at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport this evening, Sabina Khatun and her teammates immediately began their public celebrations atop the double-decker bus.
The championship, held in Thailand, saw Bangladesh emerge undefeated, securing five wins and one draw from six matches to accumulate 16 points. The team clinched the title with a commanding 14-2 victory over hosts Thailand at Huamark Indoor Stadium on 25 January. Runners-up India finished the tournament with 12 points.
The open-top bus, decorated with the national flag and a banner reading “A story of victory in red and green,” allowed the players to lift the trophy and greet fans, who had gathered in large numbers at the airport. Yellow flowers adorned the roof, adding to the festive atmosphere, while supporters cheered the team’s remarkable achievement. From the airport, the squad will continue the celebrations at Hatirjheel Amphitheatre.
This marks the latest in a series of grand receptions for Bangladesh’s women’s team. Previously, in 2022 and 2024, the squad was celebrated on open-top buses after victories over Nepal in the SAFF Women’s Championship. On both occasions, Sabina Khatun and Rituparna Chakma were among the standout players honoured by fans.
