The highly anticipated Women's Football Championship '2024 commenced today at the Bir Shreshtho Shaheed Shipahi Mohammad Mustafa Kamal Stadium in Kamalapur. Hosts Bangladesh, eager to retain their title, will launch their campaign against Nepal in the opening match at 7 pm (Bangladesh Time). Simultaneously, India and Bhutan will face off at 3 pm in the second fixture of the day.

Defending champions Bangladesh, led by the experienced coach Saiful Bari Tito, expressed confidence in their squad during a pre-match press briefing at the BFF House on Thursday. Coach Tito emphasized the players' responsibility to contribute to the country, stating, "Country gave us a lot, now the time comes to do something for the country, and only the players can do it, we (coach) can help only them fixing the match strategy." The team boasts a balanced lineup, featuring five seasoned national players and promising football talents. Tito remains optimistic about retaining the title.

Captain Afida Khandakar echoed the coach's sentiment, stating, "We are now targeting the first match, and we want to make passage for the final by beating Nepal." The team is focused on taking one game at a time, with an eye on securing victory against Nepal in their opening encounter.

In addition to the inaugural matches, Bangladesh is scheduled to face their formidable neighbor India on February 4 and Bhutan on February 6, both at 7 pm, at the same venue. The final showdown between the top two teams from the four-nation tournament is set to take place on February 8.

Captains and coaches of India, Nepal, and Bhutan also addressed the press during Thursday's briefing, expressing their enthusiasm for the upcoming championship and outlining their respective team strategies.

As the Women's Football Championship '2024 kicks off, fans across the region eagerly anticipate thrilling matches and intense competition as teams vie for the coveted title.