Bangladesh Women 4–2 Maldives Women: Hosts Thrive in SAFF CCW Group Clash

The Bangladesh Women's National Team produced a dominant attacking display to overcome the Maldives Women 4–2 in a thrilling SAFF CCW (South Asian Football Federation Championship for Women) encounter on 28 May 2026. Played at the Sheikh Fazlul Haque Mani Stadium in Gopalganj, the match saw Bangladesh take control early and hold off a spirited Maldives fightback.

Match Overview

From the start, Bangladesh imposed their style with quick passing and aggressive wing play. The Maldives, though outmatched in possession, showed dangerous counter-attacking intent that would later trouble the hosts. The first half alone featured three goals as Bangladesh raced to a 3–0 lead, only for the Maldives to pull one back before the break.

Key Moments

• 12th minute: Bangladesh opened the scoring when Sabina Khatun latched onto a through ball and calmly slotted past the Maldives goalkeeper.
• 24th minute: A defensive mix-up allowed Shamsunnahar to double the lead with a close-range finish.
• 33rd minute: Krishna Rani made it 3–0 with a fierce strike from outside the box, leaving the keeper with no chance.
• 42nd minute: Maldives pulled one back through a well-taken free kick by Mariyam Rifa, giving the visitors hope heading into halftime.
• 55th minute: Bangladesh restored their three-goal cushion as Sanjida Akhter headed in from a corner.
• 78th minute: Maldives reduced the deficit again with a penalty converted by Aminath Sana, but Bangladesh held firm for the win.

Standout Players

For Bangladesh, Sabina Khatun was a constant menace, contributing a goal and an assist. Krishna Rani and Sanjida Akhter also impressed with their energy and finishing. On the Maldives side, Mariyam Rifa showed quality from set pieces, while goalkeeper Fathimath Shiyana made several saves to keep the scoreline respectable.

Tournament Context

The win cemented Bangladesh's position as group leaders in the SAFF CCW, reinforcing their status as regional heavyweights. The Maldives, despite the loss, displayed improvements in their attacking play and remain in contention for a knockout place. With the group stage nearing its conclusion, both teams will look to build on this performance in their remaining fixtures.

This high-scoring affair served as a reminder of the growing competitiveness of women's football in South Asia, with Bangladesh showcasing the depth and quality that makes them a side to watch in the tournament.