Bangladesh Women’s Football League champions Rajshahi Stars concluded their maiden AFC Women’s Champions League preliminary stage campaign on a resounding high, dismantling Guam’s Rovers FC 8-0 in Malaysia. Although back-to-back defeats in their opening two group fixtures had already sealed their elimination from the tournament, the Bangladeshi outfit delivered an assertive attacking display to ensure their historic continental run ended on a memorable note.
The journey had begun under challenging circumstances for the debutants. Rajshahi Stars suffered a 4-0 defeat against Indian side East Bengal in their tournament opener before falling 2-1 to Malaysian hosts Sabah FA in a fiercely contested second fixture. Those outcomes left the side unable to progress to the knockout stages, but the final group match presented an opportunity to salvage pride and make a statement on the Asian stage.
From the opening whistle, the Bangladeshi champions seized control of the midfield, exploiting gaps in the Rovers FC backline with fluid passing and incisive wide play. Tohura Khatun spearheaded the rout with an exceptional hat-trick, demonstrating clinical finishing throughout the ninety minutes. Striker Shamsunnahar added a composed brace, whilst midfield playmaker Monika Chakma and Shamsunnahar Junior registered a goal apiece. An unfortunate own goal conceded by the overwhelmed Guamanian defence rounded off the eight-goal demolition.
With that comprehensive victory, Rajshahi Stars finished third in Group A, collecting three points from their three matches. While qualification eluded them, participating in the flagship Asian club competition represents a major milestone for women’s football in Bangladesh. As the first Bangladeshi club to feature in the AFC Women’s Champions League, the squad established a vital benchmark for domestic champions aspiring to compete at the highest continental level.
