Sweden-Based Anika Thrilled With Bangladesh Call-Up

Sweden-based forward Anika Rania Siddiqui has expressed her delight after receiving her first call-up to the Bangladesh women’s national football team. In a video message shared on Bangladesh Football Federation’s (BFF) official Facebook page last night, Anika said, “Since childhood, my dream has been to represent Bangladesh. Finally, that dream has come true. I am genuinely thrilled to have my name on the national team roster.”

The Bangladesh squad is scheduled to depart tonight at 2 a.m. via Bangkok to Sydney, Australia, ahead of the 21st AFC Women’s Asian Cup, which begins on 1 March. Speaking at a press conference at the BFF headquarters earlier today, head coach Peter Butler praised Anika’s potential: “She is only 20–21 years old. One of our federation members, Mr Fahad, recommended her. We have reviewed her videos and observed her in training. In my view, she is highly promising and could be a major discovery for the future.”

Anika is poised to become the second foreign-based player to represent Bangladesh, following Matsushima Sumaiya, who was born in Japan. The 20-year-old has played for the U19 squad of Swedish club Brompojkarna and made her senior team debut in last month’s Swedish Cup. She hopes her experience in European football will benefit the Bangladesh team.

Adjusting to Bangladesh’s climate and playing conditions has been challenging. In her video message, Anika acknowledged, “It feels good now, but the beginning was tough. The weather and everything else were new to me. Gradually, I am adapting and improving.”

Anika has quickly built camaraderie with her teammates, forming friendships with players such as Afeeda, Ripa, Swapna, and Rupnara. Team captain Afeeda expressed her satisfaction with the new recruit, saying, “She has joined us for trials and is adapting well. I hope she faces no issues integrating with the squad.”

Bangladesh is drawn in a challenging group alongside some of Asia’s strongest teams. The tournament schedule and group composition are as follows:

The main tournament will take place across five venues in Australia from 1–21 March. Ahead of the competition, Bangladesh will hold a preparatory camp at Sydney’s Valentine Sports Park from 22 February. The squad is also scheduled to play a friendly match against local club Western Sydney Wanderers on 26 February.

Anika’s inclusion in the squad not only highlights the increasing role of expatriate players in Bangladesh football but also strengthens the team with her international experience. Her presence is expected to bolster both the forward line and overall tactical depth, offering the team fresh energy and skill as they aim to compete against Asia’s top teams.