Ritu Porna dedicates wonder goal to late brother

Bangladesh women's football team's member Ritu Porna Chakma dedicated her wonderful goal against Pakistan on Saturday to her younger brother, who passed away from a tragic accident in June.

Ritu Porna, who came on as a second-half substitute in Saturday's game in Kathmandu, wrapped up the 6-0 victory with a left-footed volley from close to 25 yards out, the ball sailing into the top left corner of the Pakistan net, giving the goalkeeper no chance to stop.

The goal was hailed by commentators as one of the best, if not the best, of the tournament so far. Soon after scoring the goal, the 18-year-old midfielder was pictured praying, with her hands clasped and eyes closed, as the other players joined her in celebration of the goal. 

"I had the plan that if I got the chance today and scored a goal, I would dedicate the goal to my brother. That's what happened. I scored and immediately dedicated the goal to my brother," Ritu Porna told media after the team's practice on Sunday.

A file photo shows Ritu Porna Chakma with her late brother Parvan Chakma. Photo: Collected

Ritu Porna's brother, Parvan Chakma, a college student in Rangamati, had met a tragic death on June 29 when he was electrocuted at home. 

Ritu Porna said she is all focused about Bangladesh's next game, which is on Tuesday against five-time champions India. Both Bangladesh and India have ensured semifinal berths, with Tuesday's match crucial in deciding group standing and semifinal opposition.