Nepal Captain Sabitra Bhandari Signs with Wellington Phoenix in Australia’s A-League

Kathmandu: Captain of the Nepal women’s national football team, Sabitra Bhandari, also known as Samba, has signed a two-year contract with Wellington Phoenix, a New Zealand-based club that competes in Australia’s A-League Women.

The club praised Bhandari as a prolific scorer for both club and country, stating that her signing is a key move ahead of the upcoming season.

Bhandari recently made headlines during the AFC Women’s Asian Cup qualifiers, where she netted nine goals in two matches, including a hat-trick.

With an impressive record of over 60 goals in just 24 matches in the Indian Women’s League, Bhandari also made history as the first Nepali footballer to play and score in a top-tier European league, while representing French club En Avant Guingamp.

Amy Shepherd, interim head coach of Wellington Phoenix, welcomed Bhandari’s arrival, calling it a milestone for the team. “We are proud to welcome Sabitra. Her performances in France proved her ability. Her experience, leadership, and goal-scoring talent will be a big boost to our squad,” Shepherd said.

Bhandari expressed her excitement about joining the club, stating, “I’m very excited to join Wellington Phoenix. I want to score more goals and bring joy to the fans. Once I heard about the club’s ambitions for the upcoming season, it was an easy decision for me.”

She also announced her departure from Guingamp, expressing gratitude for her two-year journey with the French club.

Bhandari becomes the 17th player signed by Wellington Phoenix for the 2025/26 A-League Women’s season.