Sweden-based forward Anika Rania Siddiqui has expressed immense joy after receiving her first call-up to the Bangladesh women’s national football team. In a video message shared on the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) Facebook page, Anika said, “Representing Bangladesh has been my dream since childhood. Finally, that dream has come true. I am truly delighted to have my name on the national squad.”
The Bangladesh team is scheduled to depart for Sydney, Australia via Bangkok at 2 a.m. tonight to participate in the 21st AFC Women’s Asian Cup, which runs from 1 to 21 March. Ahead of the journey, a press conference was held at the BFF headquarters today, where head coach Peter Butler praised Anika’s potential:
“She is just 20–21 years old. One of our federation members, Mr Fahad, recommended her. We have reviewed her videos and observed her training sessions. In my view, she is highly promising and could be a significant discovery for the future.”
Anika is set to become only the second overseas-based player to represent Bangladesh, following Matsushima Sumaiya, who was born in Japan. Anika has previously played for Brompojkarna’s U-19 team in Sweden and made her senior club debut last month during the Swedish Cup. She aims to bring her European football experience to the national team.
Adapting to Bangladesh’s climate and conditions has not been straightforward. Speaking in her video message, Anika admitted, “It feels great now, but it was challenging initially. Everything—from the weather to the surroundings—was completely new. Gradually, I am improving.”
Despite the brief time together, Anika has quickly bonded with her teammates, including Afida, Ripa, Swapna, and Rupnara. Captain Afida expressed her approval of Anika’s integration:
“She joined us for trials and has adapted reasonably well. We hope she has no issues settling in.”
Bangladesh’s Group and Fixtures
The 21st AFC Women’s Asian Cup will be held across five venues in Australia. Bangladesh is drawn in a challenging group alongside nine-time champions China, three-time champions North Korea, and Uzbekistan. Ahead of the tournament, the team will hold a preparatory camp at Valentine Sports Park, Sydney, from 22 February, followed by a friendly match against local club Western Sydney Wanderers on 26 February.
| Date | Opponent | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| 1–21 March | China | Various venues, Australia |
| 1–21 March | North Korea | Various venues, Australia |
| 1–21 March | Uzbekistan | Various venues, Australia |
| 22 Feb – 21 Mar | Training & Friendly | Valentine Sports Park / Western Sydney Wanderers |
Anika’s inclusion is seen as a boost to the squad, adding both international experience and technical skills. With guidance from the coaching staff and support from teammates, she is expected to play a pivotal role in Bangladesh’s Asian Cup campaign, aiming to raise the team’s profile on the continental stage.