Rupna Sets New Goalkeeping Milestone

For a footballer, completing a league season unbeaten is a remarkable achievement. For a goalkeeper, however, keeping a “clean sheet” throughout an entire league—conceding not a single goal—is a dream few can claim. South Asia’s standout goalkeeper, Rupna Chakma, has accomplished precisely that.

Representing reigning champions Rajshahi Stars in the recently concluded women’s national football league at Kamalapur Stadium, Rupna played nine matches without conceding a single goal. Her extraordinary performance earned her the Best Goalkeeper Award, cementing her status as one of Bangladesh’s premier football talents.

Rupna has long been Bangladesh’s number one goalkeeper at both domestic and international levels. Her accolades include the SAFF Championship Best Goalkeeper awards in 2022 and 2024. During these tournaments, she conceded just one goal in five matches in 2022 and four goals in five matches in 2024.

In the 2026 league, Rajshahi Stars scored 90 goals in ten matches while maintaining a perfect defensive record. Rupna was rested for one match against weaker opposition, with Sworna Rani Mondal, the national team’s second goalkeeper, taking her place. In two or three other games, she was substituted in the closing minutes to give her teammates an opportunity.

Reflecting on her achievement, Rupna told the press, “Previously, I played for Bashundhara Kings and Nasrin Sporting, conceding just one goal in each league. This season, I didn’t concede a single goal. The league was tough, but I had made a personal vow not to let any goals in.”

The defensive unit was strengthened by teammates such as Shyuli Azim, Rituporna, and Alpi Akter, along with two Nepali players. Rupna identified Farashganj and the Bangladesh Army team as the season’s toughest opponents, both of whom faced strong battles against Rajshahi Stars. Notably, she made several outstanding saves, including saving a penalty in the league.

Born in a modest family in Kutukchhari, Rangamati, Rupna lost her father before she was born. The youngest of four siblings, she grew up overcoming numerous challenges. She began playing football at Ghagra School under coach Shantimoni Chakma. Originally a striker, she switched to goalkeeping at her coach’s suggestion. Rupna explains, “Goalkeeping is a huge responsibility. One mistake can sink a team, but a crucial save can boost the squad’s confidence.”

Last year, she also played for Transport United in Bhutan, gaining international exposure and further honing her skills. Her ambitions now extend to playing in larger Asian leagues beyond Bhutan and Nepal.

Looking ahead, Rupna will defend the posts for Bangladesh at the Asian Cup for the first time, with the team travelling to Australia on 20 or 21 February. Facing powerhouses such as China and South Korea, she remains undaunted. “I’m ready,” she said. “I will give my best and represent my country with pride.”