The Bangladesh women’s football team will kick off their SAFF Women’s Championship campaign tomorrow (Sunday) when they face Pakistan in their Group A opener at the Dasharath Rangasala Stadium in Kathmandu, Nepal. The match is scheduled to start at 5:45 pm Bangladesh time.

A victory against Pakistan would secure Bangladesh a spot in the semifinals, as Pakistan currently sit in a precarious position in the group after a 2-5 loss to India in their opening match. If Bangladesh triumphs, their next match against India will determine the group champion.

For Pakistan, it`s a do-or-die match to keep their tournament hopes alive.

The Bangladesh team, led by captain Sabina Khatun, arrived in Nepal on October 15 and has had ample time to prepare and acclimatize to the local conditions. With a blend of youth and experience, the squad is eager to defend their title.

In a boost for Bangladesh, forward Krishnarani Sarkar has returned from injury and is set to play in the opening match.

Bangladesh will face their final group stage challenge against tournament favorites India on October 23 at the same venue. The top two teams from each group will progress to the semifinals, which will take place on October 27. The final is set for October 30, with all matches held at Dasharath Rangasala Stadium.

Bangladesh Squad: Rupna Chakma, Mst Yeazman Begum, Mile Akter, Masura Parvin, Afeida Khandakar, Sheuli Azim, Shamsunnahar (Sr.), Nilufa Yasmin Nila, Kohati Kisku, Monika Chakma, Maria Manda, Sapna Rani, Munki Akter, Airin Akter, Sumaya Matsushima, Sanjida Akter, Ritu Porno Chakma, Shaheda Akter Ripa, Sabina Khatun, Tohura Khatun, Shamsunnahar (Jr.), Krishna Rani Sarkar, Mst Sagorika.