Saff Women's Championship winning Bangladesh squad to get Ekushey Padak
However, after persistent lobbying and official correspondence from BFF, the ministry decided to extend the award to the entire squad, including players, coaches, and support staff.
The entire Saff-winning Bangladesh women's football team will receive the prestigious Ekushey Padak, not just the starting XI, following successful appeals from the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF).
Initially, the Ministry of Cultural Affairs had planned to honour only the 11 players from the final squad that secured victory against Nepal in the 2024 Saff Championship.
However, after persistent lobbying and official correspondence from BFF, the ministry decided to extend the award to the entire squad, including players, coaches, and support staff.
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A government notice signed by Senior Assistant Secretary Md. Abdul Malek confirmed the decision, inviting the Bangladesh national women's football team to the award ceremony. Interim government Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus will present the honours.
While the full team is invited to the event, only captain Sabina Khatun and one alternate player will step onto the stage to receive the award on behalf of the squad. BFF has nominated vice-captain Maria Manda as the second representative, though final confirmation is pending.
Bangladesh made history by defeating Nepal in the final, successfully defending their Saff Championship title after their 2022 triumph. The team's remarkable journey, which included a dominant semi-final victory over Bhutan, solidified their place as South Asia's finest.
The official ceremony will see the team receive Bangladesh's second-highest civilian honour, marking a landmark moment for women's football in the country.
