Samba Set to Make Waves in France, Officially Joins EA Guingamp

In a significant move for Nepali football, star striker Sabitra Bhandari, popularly known as ‘Samba,’ has officially engaged the French women’s league club EA Guingamp. The announcement was made by the club through a post early Friday, featuring a video of Sabitra in the club’s dressing room and on the grounds.

 

[#MercatoEAG] 🇳🇵 L’attaquante Népalaise , 𝗦𝗮𝗯𝗶𝘁𝗿𝗮 𝗕𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗿𝗶 “𝙎𝙖𝙢𝙗𝙖” s’engage avec En Avant ❤️‍🔥🖤#WarRaok #Celtigirls pic.twitter.com/k4HWxN69S5

— EAG Féminines (@EAG_feminines) February 1, 2024

The French Embassy in Kathmandu had recently confirmed Sabitra’s signing with the top division side, EA Guingamp, expressing enthusiasm for her journey in France. It stated, “Young Nepali football sensation, #SabitraBhandari, is set to make waves in France playing at the #EnAvantGuingamp! Join us in cheering for her as she embarks on this journey. This is also a testimony to the power of Nepali women in football!”

 

Young Nepali football sensation, #SabitraBhandari (#Samba), is set to make waves in France playing at the #EnAvantGuingamp! Join us in cheering for her as she embarks on this journey. This is also a testimony of the power of Nepali women in football! 📷📷 https://t.co/3pNK4CpQUe

— French Embassy in Nepal (@FranceInNepal) January 30, 2024

Sabitra had initially signed with Israeli club Hapoel Raanana for the 2023/24 season, but uncertainty arose after the league faced disruptions following the Hamas attack on Israel. Consequently, she returned to Nepal.

EA Guingamp, based in Guingamp, competes in the French top division, Division 1 Feminine. The club, which secured the league title in the 1988/89 season, currently stands 10th in the league table with two wins, two draws, and eight losses. The Division 1 Feminine League comprises twelve teams.

Sabitra, holding the record for the national side with 43 goals, has had a remarkable career. In 2018, she signed with the Indian club Sethu FC, dominating the Indian women’s league by scoring 15 goals in seven games during the 2018/19 season. Subsequently, she joined Gokulam Kerala FC and set a record in the Indian women’s league by scoring 29 goals in the 2022/23 season.

Sabitra’s move to EA Guingamp marks another chapter in her illustrious career, and her presence is expected to make a significant impact on the French women’s football scene.