Biography of Sabitra Bhandari
Sabitra Bhandari, popularly known as “Samba,” is a renowned Nepalese footballer celebrated for her extraordinary goal-scoring ability and her groundbreaking contributions to women’s football. Born on February 16, 1996, in a small village in Lamjung, Nepal, she grew up playing football barefoot with makeshift balls made of socks. Her journey from humble beginnings to becoming Nepal’s leading footballer has been remarkable.
Early Life and Inspiration
Sabitra’s passion for football was evident from an early age. Despite societal expectations and limited resources, she pursued her love for the sport. Inspired by Nepalese football stars Anu Lama and Jamuna Gurung, she dreamed of playing alongside them—a dream she eventually realized.
Club Career
Sabitra started her professional journey with Nepal’s Armed Police Force (APF) Club, quickly making a name for herself. In 2018, she signed with Sethu FC in India, where she played a crucial role in their Indian Women’s League victory. In 2019, she made headlines by scoring four goals in her debut match for Sethu FC. Later, she joined En Avant Guingamp in France’s top-tier league, becoming the first Nepalese footballer to play in a European top-flight club.
International Career
Sabitra has been a cornerstone of the Nepal women’s national team, debuting in 2014. She has represented Nepal in numerous international tournaments, including the South Asian Games, the SAFF Women’s Championship, and the AFC Women’s Asian Cup qualifiers. With over 50 international goals, she is the highest goal-scorer in Nepal’s football history.
Challenges and Legacy
Sabitra’s journey has not been without challenges, including societal resistance and injuries such as an ACL tear. Yet, she has persevered, becoming a beacon of hope and inspiration for young athletes in Nepal. Her achievements have spotlighted the need for better support and infrastructure for women’s football in Nepal.
Achievements and Impact
– Milestones: All-time top scorer for Nepal with over 50 international goals.
– Awards: Multiple accolades for her goal-scoring feats and leadership on the field.
– Inspiration: Sabitra’s story encourages young girls across Nepal to pursue their dreams, breaking barriers in sports and beyond.
Sabitra Bhandari’s career symbolizes resilience, dedication, and the transformative power of sports. Her impact extends beyond the pitch, inspiring future generations to challenge norms and achieve greatness.