Congratulations are in order for the Bangladesh women's football team, which made history on Monday, securing their victory at the finals of the SAFF Women's Championship against Nepal.
Not only did the team bag the championship trophy -- with 3-1 goals in the final match and an overall 23 goals scored throughout the tournament -- they also won an impressive number of awards for their stellar performance.
It is a matter of great pride for the nation that our female athletes, despite having fewer opportunities presented to them, continue to smash records and make a name for the country internationally.
However, this also, unfortunately, brings to light the shameful disparity that persists in the country for women in sports.
The present scenario proves that female athletes, unlike their male counterparts, have been denied the liberties to practice or pursue booming careers on the field.
While the recent victory is certainly cause for celebration, it also begs the question: How much of the nation has truly supported, followed, or aided the team on their way?
This is a chance for the relevant authorities -- and the general public -- to reflect on and rectify past acts of negligence. Athletes, regardless of gender, need to be provided with the necessary training and opportunities to excel in their fields.
It goes without saying that we also need to invest more in women's sports to better facilitate the space that the champions deserve.
Moreover, support from the people during the process, and not just after big wins, can be fundamental to their success.
If this is the kind of outstanding performance they deliver with the limited scope they have been entitled to, we can only imagine the glass ceilings the women's teams will break with the right support to back them up.