Bangladesh were on course for defeat in the SAFF Under-19 Women’s Championship final before Mosammat Sagorika’s goal three minutes into additional time. It was her fourth goal in three matches in the competition but the toss drama snatched all the attention in the end. Hailing from Rangatungi village at Nonduar union of Ranisankail upazila in Thakurgaon district, Sagorika gave an exclusive interview to Dhaka Tribune where she talked about the toss controversy, the long wait before being announced joint-champions, and her journey in football against the will of her parents, among other topics. Here are the excerpts:
How did you take the toss incident?
It was a mixed feeling. Such kind of incident was the first in my life. I broke down because of losing the final. We were even ready to play for 90 more minutes but not to lose the trophy. It was very strange deciding winner on toss.
What were you thinking at that time?
First, the referee called the captain. She didn’t tell anything to our captain (Afeida Khandaker) and asked her to choose the side of the coin. Eleven players completed their first penalty and our skipper thought the toss was for the new spell of shootout. We thought they (India) would take the first spot-kick for winning the toss but the referee blew the whistle and Indian players thought they won it. Deciding winner on toss in a football match can never happen.
What were you doing during the two-hour long wait on the pitch before the final decision?
There was fear, good times as well as bad. We were discussing three possible outcomes – we receive the champion’s trophy, there would be retake or there would be shootout again. My teammates and coaches were praising me for the goal that rescued the side.
Did you visualize scoring the equalizer during normal time?
There were few seconds left on the clock. I was determined to score a goal. I received the ball and did it. It feels really good.
Was it difficult considering that you were tightly marked in the final?
Yes. In the previous match (first round), they (India) didn’t realize fully how I play. They marked me in the final. It was a hard battle but still I managed a goal.
What’s the secret of your fine first touch that you displayed throughout the tournament?
My first coach (Tazul Islam) taught me a lot of tricks like dribbling and others. It was very enjoyable. He told me that I would play for the national team one day. I kept the faith of my teacher (smiles).
Your teacher said he took the help of youtube to develop your ability with the ball...
Yes. At the beginning, we got the primary lessons. When sir found a good dribbling video on internet he showed it to us. He instructed us what to do and how to do it.
What kind of videos did you watch?
It could be of any footballer whose skill was worthy of learning. Personally I like Neymar’s performance. I watched his matches and tried to follow him.
Why did you quit Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protishthan?
I was not enjoying there. I shared this with my teacher. I told him if I do anything good I’d do it from here. If luck favors, I can reach my goal from here. I didn’t return to BKSP. Sir put me into the Brahmanbaria FC team in the women’s football league from where I got call from the Bangladesh Football Federation camp.
Your father didn’t take it lightly...
My parents got angry at me. Everyone used to say BKSP is a very good place where many people can’t get admission despite spending lot of money and I got chance there for free. But I was strict with my decision. I said I would prove that I was right.
Do you think you proved them wrong?
I think I did. It’s really good that I got four goals in three matches. Now my target is to play for the senior national team.