Afeida faces axe for crucial India clash

Defender Afeida Khandokar is likely to be dropped from the starting eleven for Bangladesh's SAFF Women's Championship match against India today, with coach Peter Butler expected to make at least two changes to the side that defeated Maldives 4-2 in the opening match at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.

If left out, it would be a double blow for Afeida shortly after being stripped of the captaincy ahead of the tournament.

The Satkhira-born defender has been a regular fixture in the national team since making her international debut against Singapore in December 2023. She has played 24 consecutive international matches and captained the side in 14 of them.

In the absence of self-exiled Akhi Khatun and experienced defender Masura Parvin, who remained out of the squad for a long period following the unrest in the national camp in early 2025, Afeida often partnered either Nabiron Khatun or Surma Jannat in central defence. Her inclusion allowed experienced campaigners Sheuli Azim and Shamsunnahar Sr. to operate in the full-back positions.

However, Afeida's performances have come under scrutiny in recent months, particularly because of Bangladesh's vulnerability while maintaining a high defensive line.

She was reportedly blamed for Maldives' second goal in the opening match after failing to stop a counter-attacking move, and indications suggest she could pay the price with a place on the bench against India.

The defender was also absent from Butler's probable starting lineup during the team's final training session at the Don Bosco ground. Surma Jannat was seen operating in central defence, signalling a likely change in the backline for today's crucial encounter.

Afeida has featured in all 24 of Bangladesh's international and FIFA friendly matches since making her debut, but now faces a challenge to reclaim her place in the side.