Matsushima Sumaya is the first ever Japan-born player to get called up for the Bangladesh national football camp. The left-footed forward was born in Nagoya to Japanese mother and Bangladeshi father on February 15, 2001 and also raised there before moving to Dhaka at the age of 10. This interview was taken at the Bangladesh Football Federation House a day after her birthday. Here are the excerpts:
How was your birthday celebration?
It was just another day. I didn't have family for the first time on my birthday. The BFF officials sent me a packet of sweets. So that was very special for me. I also cut a cake with my roommates. It was good.
Are you aware that you are the first Japan-born footballer to get into the Bangladesh football camp?
Yes, I know. I think it will be quite challenging for any other girl from Japan or any other country to sacrifice everything and live here. But you have to sacrifice a lot to be a footballer.
How did you start playing football?
I have learned football in Bangladesh. I used to play in school and at a local park beside my house in Baridhara. In 2020, I started playing for Bashundhara Kings and next year, I went to Maldives to play for Dhivehi Seraing Club. I played continuously for three seasons for Bashundhara Kings.
Before participating in the Bangladesh and Maldives leagues, what was your previous competition experience?
I have participated in multiple English medium inter-school tournaments and most of the time I was champion. I played in center forward. But I'm comfortable in any other positions at forward line.
Tell us about the time before stepping into professional football…
I have studied all my life. Currently I'm in North South University. I have done my O-Level and A-Level with good grades. Besides that, I used to continue football regularly by myself and with the local boys. There were no girls, I was the only girl.
Did you play football in Japan?
I had a very conservative family so I had to study. I was a very active kid since childhood. I used to participate in different competitions but never played football there.
How did you develop interest in football?
Since I was a sporty person, I saw the local boys playing football, so I just joined one day and got addicted. It was in 2011 in Baridhara DOHS Park. It was like I was the only girl but we were kids so no one discriminated. We all played together. We were all at same age so nobody considered me as a girl.
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Who taught you football first?
I don't remember exactly but there was a local coach. He was a Nigerian. I trained alone mostly with my brothers. They played football so I went with them. I have never been trained professionally.
Were there other girls who played?
There were actually no girls at all because girls don't play football where I grew up. My parents also, without pressurizing told me to study because they thought there is no future in football. Now they support me.
Why do you think that was the case?
In Bangladesh, there were lots of fields in village area but not in Dhaka. There were less opportunities for girls in Dhaka, especially to play football. It was quite expensive for me to play football because you have to arrange a coach, rent a field and give a lot of time. There were not enough fields in Dhaka so it was tough for me to push myself and play football. As I loved sports, I loved football and kept going.
Do you remember your first match?
It was a six-a-side with the boys. I was the only girl. It was good. I don't remember if I scored or not. It was fun.
As you were never professionally trained before, what hurdles did you face when you started playing in the league?
It was very hard in the beginning when I joined Bashundhara Kings. I got a lot of injuries, especially muscle injuries because I was not used to that training. But I kept going, did recoveries and gym. I worked hard and now I'm playing and I'm with the national team.
How was the initial experience playing in bigger field in 11 v 11 match?
I used to play in small fields. Playing in bigger field was quite different. It was very challenging for me to get used to big field but I've tried my best.
Why did you choose football?
Good question. When I started football, I didn't know anything but as I was playing, I was getting addicted to it. I got obsessed with football. I was 11, I used to go to the field and play two/three times a day. I had no idea of world football and that we had a national team.
What does football mean to you now?
Football means a lot to me. I have stayed with my family for last 22 years so it is very hard for me to stay here in the camp leaving my family and studies behind. Just because I love football, that's why I came here.
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How is life in the camp thus far?
The training every day is very intense. The gym sessions are intense. It's quite hard but I never give up. I tried to keep the level with other players or do better than them. I just try to. Overall, it's hard but I'm trying to cope up.
Bangladesh women's football team are a dominant force in South Asia and current Saff champions. How difficult will it be to get into this team?
It's challenging but not impossible. I'm working hard to play in the XI and I want to give my best.
What are your thoughts on Bangladesh football these days?
I had no idea about men's or women's football before 2019. Now, it's quite competitive as lots of girls want to be a footballer. It's a privilege for me to play and to be training here in the national team.
Who is your favorite footballer?
Cristiano Ronaldo. In Bangladesh, it's Sabina Khatun.
How is it like having Sabina in the camp?
I idolize her. I follow her. She is a very experienced player and very humble person. I really respect her, not in a friendly way but we have a good bonding.
What is your goal?
Everyone has a different journey. Some players retire at 21 and some players start their journey at 21. Every journey is special and different. I thing I have a lot of time ahead. I believe in myself. I hope I can do something for the national team.
Anything you want to add to finish things off?
I want more players like me from Dhaka city who are studying but have a dream to be a footballer. Their parents perhaps don't support them as they think there is no future. If their daughters love to play football besides studying, I think they should support. The girls are bringing results now. If the girls love football, there is a way.