Feeding cattle to breaking barriers: Nepal goal machine Sabitra Bhandari

Nepal’s football sensation, Sabitra Bhandari, has achieved a remarkable milestone by making her mark in the French top flight with Guingamp. Her journey to this point has been filled with obstacles, but her determination and talent have propelled her forward.

Growing up in a small village near Kathmandu, Sabitra faced challenges from the start. In a society where girls were expected to focus on household chores, she defied norms by pursuing her passion for sports, particularly football. Despite facing resistance, she persisted, playing football with makeshift balls made from old socks and even hiding them from her family to avoid disapproval.

Her dedication paid off as she excelled in both volleyball and football, often juggling her responsibilities of fetching cattle fodder with her sporting pursuits. One memorable victory in a local women’s football tournament showed her talent, with Sabitra scoring both goals barefoot, a testament to her skill and determination.

Sabitra Bhandari: Inspiring Hope and Making History in Nepalese Football

Recognizing her potential, a local referee encouraged Sabitra to pursue football professionally, leading her to opportunities in Kathmandu. From there, her journey took her to India, where she continued to shine on the field despite facing setbacks like an ACL injury.

Now, Sabitra has made history as the first Nepalese player, male or female, to compete in a European top-flight fixture. However, she remains humble, acknowledging that she still has much to learn, especially technically.

While Sabitra’s success has brought attention to women’s football in Nepal. Likewise, she remains concerned about the lack of support and infrastructure for the sport back home. Similarly, the interruption of the National Women’s League and the absence of domestic matches have hindered the development of young talents. It is making for players to pursue their dreams within the country.

Despite these challenges, Sabitra remains hopeful for the future of women’s football in Nepal. She believes that with proper support, training, and investment, the country has the potential to excel on the international stage.

Her story serves as an inspiration to young girls across Nepal, showing them that with determination and perseverance, anything is possible. As Sabitra continues to make waves in the football world, her impact on the sport and her homeland is undeniable.

Full Story: The Guardian

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