Star Showbiz: How do you feel everytime you win?

Maria Manda: Everytime we win a match or tournament, we feel very good. Winning is a result of us working very hard. Whenever we win, it is because we worked hard as a team. So, when we achieve victory, I am very happy.

Showbiz: How did you get involved in this field?

Maria: At first, I did not know much about football. When I was young, I would have fun kicking a ball around. The first tournament I played in was the 2011 Bangamata Sheikh Fazilatunnesa Primary School Gold Cup Football Tournament.

Showbiz: Who motivated you to pursue a career in football?

Maria: My main motivation was my mother. Without her help, I wouldn't be able to be here today. Mofiz sir and Minti madam from my primary school also motivated me a lot. They would make us practice regularly. When we did well in a tournament, we were allowed to practice every day after school.

Showbiz: What is the secret behind your success?

Maria: After getting called up to the national team, my teachers, especially Choton sir helped us train. He made me work extremely hard, and that hard work made me successful.

Showbiz: Tell us a memorable event from your life.

Maria: In 2015, I went to play an under-14 tournament with the national team. There, an incident occurred that I will never forget. While we were discussing tactics in a hotel room, a big earthquake happened. That is probably the most memorable event in my life.

Showbiz: What are your future plans?

Maria: Right now, my only plan is to improve my playing. I want to become a better player so that I can get the chance to play for international clubs, and bring honour to my country. I also hope that I will be able to play in the world cup someday.

Showbiz: Do you have any advice for people who want to become professionals?

Maria: People who want to become professional footballers have to work extremely hard. We had to struggle a lot to come where we are, so if someone wants to do the same, they have to struggle like us. Only then can they become professionals.

Showbiz: Do you have any messages for our readers?

Maria: I would request the readers to pray for me. Your prayers will help me achieve something bigger. And the readers that play sports, I would request you all to practice regularly. You will surely be able to do something big if you do.

Interviewd by Robab Rosan

Transcribed by Ridwan Intisaar Mahbub