She is more than just a name in South Asian football; Sabina Khatun is a symbol of resilience, leadership, and history in motion. As the Captain who led Bangladesh to back-to-back South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Women’s Championship titles in 2022 and 2024, her journey is nothing short of inspirational. 

In her first-ever interview with Sri Lankan media, Sabina opened up about the highs and lows of her career, the power of belief, and what it meant to carry a nation’s hopes on her shoulders. From humble beginnings to continental triumph, this is the voice of a true game-changer in women’s football.

Born in Satkhira on 25 October 1993, Sabina discovered football during her school years under the guidance of District Coach Akbar. She quickly stood out in local tournaments and earned selection to the Bangladesh VDP team after impressing at the 2009 National Women’s Championship. 

Her big break came in 2010, when she was picked for Bangladesh’s first-ever Women’s National Team at the South Asian Games, where she scored key goals, helping secure a Bronze medal.

Sabina’s leadership journey began in 2015 when she was appointed Captain of the Women’s National Team.

Following are excerpts:

Congratulations on your team’s incredible performance. As South Asians, we take great pride in this victory. Can you describe the emotions of this winning moment?

Winning SAFF has always been my dream. Winning moments cannot be expressed in words. It’s one of the best feelings as a player.

How did your journey as a soccer player begin? What inspired you to take up the sport? 

In Bangladesh, engaging in any kind of sport is challenging for girls. Football was love at first sight for me. When I started football, I decided to take it up as my profession, even though facilities weren’t as great as they are now.

Are there any unforgettable moments or special episodes from your sports career that stand out? 

Being the Most Valuable Player (MVP) and top scorer and winning the first-ever SAFF title stand out, in addition to the last whistle in the final game against Nepal in 2022.

Who is your favourite player?

My favourite player is Marta da Silva.

Did your parents or family have a background in sports that influenced your career?

No.

You play for a club in India now. What are the key experiences and lessons you have gained from your time there in relation to the Bangladeshi club structure?

The Indian league is far better than the league in Bangladesh because our league is still amateur in addition to being a short-period league and the facilities aren’t great in Bangladesh. But the Indian league is professional.

What kind of support have you received from the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) in your career?

It has provided immense support. The entire credit for our success goes to our Chairman Mahfuza Akter Kiron and former President Kazi Mohammad Salahuddin, as the BFF gave us accommodation, food, training, and salaries throughout the year.

What are your thoughts on the current standards and potential of South Asian football?

It’s getting better and more competitive day by day. South Asian players have great potential to play in Europe; they just lack opportunity.

Hamza Choudhury recently joined the Bangladesh Men’s National Team. What is your opinion on players of foreign descent participating in South Asian football? How does that connection elevate the region’s football landscape?

It is obviously positive. It inspires other players to make it to that level and I appreciate it.

Can you share some insights about your team? What are the key messages or strategies discussed in the dressing room?

The message is always to win it and to give their best.

As a SAFF Championship-winning Captain, what advice would you give young Sri Lankan women aspiring to build careers in football?

You have to take up football as a profession and work hard. Many Sri Lankan players have potential to do better.

Tell us about your fan base in Bangladesh. How has their support impacted your journey?

Many fans support women’s football now and we always try to do our best for them.

After winning the SAFF Championship, what are your future goals and plans?

I want to play for as long as possible for my country. But after my playing career, I would love to be a coach and work for football in the future. 

Finally, what is your message to future football players and children who love you as their role model?

Work hard, believe in yourself, and never give up!