Momita makes Bangladesh debut against Maldives

Midfielder Momita Khatun made her debut for the Bangladesh women’s football team in today’s SAFF Women’s Championship match against Maldives in Goa, India.

Head coach Peter Butler brought three changes to the playing eleven that last featured in the Women’s Asian Cup qualifier against Uzbekistan in Australia last March.

Momita replaced Monika Chakma, who was ruled out of the Maldives clash due to an ankle injury. Butler had informed earlier that Monika would not be available for today’s match.

Defender Surovi Akter Arfin came in place of Sheuli Azim after the latter experienced chest pain during yesterday’s training session.

Meanwhile, Shamsunnahar Jr replaced Tahura Khatun in attack to partner Sweden-based forward Anika Rania Siddiqui and Ritu Porna.

Maria Manda led the side for the first time as captain and looked to establish control in midfield alongside debutant holding midfielder Momita and Umehla Marma.

Former captain Afeida Khandokar marshalled the backline with Kohati Kisku, Arfin and Shamsunnahar Sr, while fit-again goalkeeper Mile Akter started between the posts.

Bangladesh playing eleven: Mile, Kohati, Afeida, Arfin, Shamsunnahar Sr, Maria, Momita, Umehla, Shamsunnahar Jr, Anika and Ritu.