Maria Manda replaces Afeida Khandokar as captain for ‘tactical reasons’

Experienced midfielder Maria Manda has replaced Afeida Khandokar as captain of the Bangladesh women’s football team ahead of the SAFF Women’s Championship, with head coach Peter Butler describing the decision as a “purely tactical” move.

The change became evident during the official pre-tournament press conference in Goa, India, on Sunday, where Maria represented Bangladesh instead of Afeida, who had earlier attended the team’s departure briefing in Dhaka as captain.

The decision ends Afeida’s 15-month stint as skipper and hands leadership responsibilities to Maria for the ongoing regional tournament and potentially future international assignments.

Speaking about the switch, Butler said they wanted Afeida to focus more on her own performances.

“Afeida is still very young and has handled significant pressure. We felt it was important for her to concentrate fully on her own game. The decision was made entirely for tactical reasons and in the best interest of the team,” Butler explained.

Afeida was appointed captain in early 2025 after a turbulent period within the squad, when several senior players -- including Sabina Khatun, Maria, Monica Chakma and Masura Parvin -- reportedly fell out with the British coach.

Under Afeida’s leadership, Bangladesh played 14 official internationals and FIFA-recognised friendlies. The side secured notable wins against Bahrain, Myanmar and Turkmenistan in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup qualifiers but suffered defeats in nine matches overall, including losses to China, North Korea and Uzbekistan in the Women’s Asian Cup.

The 19-year-old midfielder also led the Bangladesh U-20 side in regional and continental competitions. However, her replacement by Arpita Biswas during last month’s AFC U-20 Women’s Asian Cup campaign in Thailand had already sparked speculation about a possible leadership change in the senior team.

Questions had also emerged regarding Afeida’s on-field performances during difficult matches, particularly against stronger opposition where Bangladesh’s defensive structure often struggled under pressure.

Butler expressed confidence that Maria’s experience and mentality would benefit the squad.

“Maria is a fighter and someone who is highly respected within the group. She leads through her work ethic and commitment, and I believe the players will respond positively to her leadership,” he added.

Although Maria has captained Bangladesh at youth level in SAFF and AFC competitions, this marks the first time she has been entrusted with the captaincy of the senior national side. She previously served as vice-captain under long-time skipper Sabina Khatun.

Bangladesh begin their hattrick campaign against Maldives tomorrow.